The workwear update: Pleats

Dressing for work doesn’t have to mean leaving your personality at the door. Track pant fans will love Ellery’s pleated midi-skirt, complete with red go-faster stripes. Stay in the fast lane by adding a block-color top from Akris, graphic hoop earrings and The Row’s streamlined sneakers to kick your way through that glass ceiling.

Nothing says summer quite like crisp cottons. Wearing white from head to toe might sound daunting, but this monochrome approach will make morning dressing much simpler. Add a minimal tote bag and barely there mules for an understated look that will work just as well for for after-hours drinks.

Break the mold and bring a little vitamin D to the boardroom by swapping muted tones for bright colors. Self-Portrait may be known as a go-to label for wedding guests, but some of the label’s demure dresses are perfect for putting a feminine spin on office attire. Sleek accessories will make it clear that you mean business.

Nothing elevates classic corporate pieces quite like riotous floral prints. Our pick is Isabel Marant’s romantic ruffled blouse worn with By Malene Birger’s moody pleated midi. The best bit? This guarantees maximum impact but requires minimum effort, which is the ultimate fashion win-win.

The desk-to-dinner dilemma has been a continual struggle, but the good news is, we’ve solved it. Seriously. Vince is our go-to label for effortlessly luxe pieces, and this season’s pleated slip dress does not disappoint. Layer it under Petar Petrov’s color-block blazer and finish with barely there sandals for an enviable look that will work hard no matter where your job – or the night – takes you.

The model featured in this story is not associated with NET-A-PORTER and does not endorse it or the products shown.