How to Dress Like You’re Heading to NYFW—Even If You’re Just Going to the Office

# How to Dress Like You're Heading to NYFW—Even If You're Just Going to the Office

Start with one statement, balance with restraint

If a piece has major volume or an unusual silhouette, keep the rest of the outfit slim. Niesner's rule: "When playing with exaggerated proportions, it's important to create balance. Define the waist with an hourglass-shaped blazer or add a belt over a more oversized silhouette." Practical ways to apply this:

• Pair a sculptural jacket or dramatic-shoulder blazer with sharp, streamlined trousers or a pencil skirt.
• Use a belted blazer or an hourglass-cut jacket (for example, the Ida Hourglass Blazer) to preserve a polished silhouette while still reading fashion-forward.

Make sheer pieces office-appropriate by layering

Sheer fabrics and lingerie-inspired tops can work in an office if the styling focuses on fabric layering instead of exposure. Niesner recommends pairing sheer tops with solid, high-coverage base layers and then adding structure on top.

• Wear a lightweight lace or organza piece over a cotton tank or camisole (Free People Lady Lux Layering Top and Quince Cotton Linen Sweater Tank are examples cited).
• Finish with a tailored blazer, sleeveless vest, or a cropped trench to add authority and coverage. The Lulus Thames Taupe Cropped Trench Coat is offered as a practical outer layer that complements sheer textures.

Use prints and unexpected pieces sparingly

A trendier print—zebra capris were highlighted—can read modern when anchored by neutral, structured pieces. If you choose a statement print, balance it with classic tailoring and muted accessories so the look reads intentional rather than theatrical.

Wear peplums and other revived silhouettes in a modern way

Peplums are back, but the styling has shifted. Instead of overtly feminine ornamentation, the contemporary peplum works best when the surrounding look is simplified. Niesner recommends:

• Keeping the palette monochromatic or tonal to streamline the silhouette.
• Pairing peplum tops with straight trousers or an all-denim look to avoid a dated feel.

Practical outfit combos to try

• Sculptural blazer + slim trousers + low, statement shoe: runway energy with office polish.
• Sheer lace top layered over a cotton tank + cropped trench + midi skirt: texture without exposure.
• Zebra-print capris + neutral blazer + simple knit: trend-forward print anchored by classic shapes.
• Peplum top in a single-tone outfit + tailored jeans or trousers: modernize a nostalgic silhouette.

Small details that make a difference

• Define the waist when shapes are voluminous—belts, hourglass blazers, or cinched trenches do this without looking fussy.
• Choose one standout element per outfit (shoulder, print, sheer panel) and keep accessories minimal.
• Favor tailored outer layers to add structure and make creative pieces feel workplace-ready.