Survivors Guide - Corp. Goth in Summer

As someone who is obsessed with customising her real-life avatar, I have had to learn the hard way how to adapt to corporate dress codes. I will preface this entry with the fact that my office is not customer facing so we are allowed certain leniencies. I've separated the below into categories for those struggling with specific aspects of their outfits. Check out my Pinterest Board for more!

1. Tops

As standard in almost all offices, shirts must be considered modest. So no cleavage or low cut tops. Off the bat I would suggest a sleeveless turtleneck which are breathable but still look formal. My personal favourites are from Mary Wyatt with the alternative designs on the front, obviously if your dress code is a little more strict you can wear a plain one in your colour of preference.

But if you're like me in Summer and you run hot and don't like the feeling of something sitting around your neck, there are other options. I always opt for a sleeveless option so I can bring an extra layer if needed. Vests are an apparent choice though spaghetti straps tend not to be permitted. Recently, I thrifted an Ava Abercrombie and Fitch top. The square neckline sits above the décolletage and fabric allows breathability due to it's elasticity. While it is becoming one of my favourite tops, I do not think it is worth £35 new. I'm sure there are alternatives out there as it is mainly the neckline I find appealing.

2. Bottoms

Trousers are one of my favourite things to wear in the office so I might be a little biased. Wide-leg trousers have been a Godsend, especially when British weather decides to be beaming sunshine one minute then pissing down with rain the next. As I'm only in the office three days a week I own one pair, the Mary Wyatt Unchained Trousers that I thrifted on Vinted for a STEAL. Luckily they had already been taken up an inch on the leg for a short girly like myself. Personally I only think you need two pairs because they literally go with everything and they're easy to alternate with any top.

Since I commute to the office I don't tend to wear skirts that often.  I keep it pretty simple with a black jersey pencil skirt that I've had for five years. This thing cost me £5 at the time and it has LASTED. Maxi skirts are one of the best options for when you need to be modest, but still like room to breathe.

3. Dresses

Honestly, I only have one dress I wear to the office. A black knit, sleeveless, high neck mini dress. It's comfortable, goes with everything, and can be worn with or without tights.

4. Shoes

Keeping it pretty practical with shoes as I rotate about three pairs. Usually my shoes depend on my outfit of the day.

For example, my Sinclair Docs are a go to when I need to look a little more sophisticated, extra points for making me a lot taller. Plus it’s one less thing to worry about having to match my shoes to trousers or a skirt.

Whereas if I’m feeling a little more on the casual side, I opt for trainers. Sketchers are sooo underrated for commuting to the office and I’ve fucked up my feet from years of wearing heels everyday. Never again!

Lastly, if I know I have an easy day and it's a Friday, I use it as an excuse to wear my Doc Flower sandals. I managed to snag a pair on Urban Outfitters in black and I am in LOVE. Surprisingly comfy as well.

Comment below what you wear to the office! :)