Just because your office dress code calls for business casual doesn’t mean you should go wild with your wardrobe—remember to mind your hemline and tone down those bright hues. Whether you’re climbing up the corporate ladder or have just entered the workforce, put the party dresses aside for cocktails and make sophisticated day shifts your daily uniform. Fill your wardrobe with these chic, classic frocks, and before long you’ll be sitting pretty in the corner office.

1) Juicy Couture Shift Tank Dress, $288

Available in a bevy of festive patterns and flattering cuts, ’60s-inspired dresses are everyone’s favorite wardrobe item. But when wearing one during the work hours, avoid flirty or kitschy styles. Instead, keep it simple by pairing a classic plaid version with a cozy turtleneck.

2) L.A.M.B. Frill-Neck Dress, $345

L.A.M.B’s ruffled taupe frock is prim and proper enough for the workplace and dressy enough for after-hours cocktails. (What do you expect from the smart, stylish mogul and working mom Gwen Stefani?) To set off the dress’s billowing sleeves, wear with a few delicate gold bangles. And if an important business meeting comes up unexpectedly, never fear—the blouse-like top works perfectly underneath a cropped blazer.

3) Gap Belted Dress, $49.50
If business-friendly black, brown, and gray garments seem too dreary, remember that navy-hued pieces work just as well. Seek out a simple shift in this sophisticated shade, and when you find a flattering style (like this one from Gap), buy a bunch: A classic blue dress will become a reliable go-to outfit for almost every occasion.

4) Banana Republic Printed Turtleneck Dress, $98

When looking to inject a dose of color into your weekday wardrobe, remember that when turning up the hues, tone down the silhouette. Although covered with fuchsia polka dots, this printed dress comes across as strictly business thanks to its conservative turtleneck collar and full-length sleeves.

5) Theory Tailored Dress, $395

There’s a reason why politicians almost always wear red ties: Crimson has long been synonymous with leadership and power. To make a bold sartorial statement, try a red dress in a classic, conservative cut, ideally one that pairs well with opaque tights and a businesslike suit blazer, like this box-pleat dress from Theory.

6) 3.1 Phillip Lim Cashmere Sweater Dress, $695
With their cozy and chic qualities, sweater dresses are tempting to wear during the weekdays. Opting for a knit dress in the office is okay, but only those versions that are not too tight or baggy. For a pulled-together yet still comfortable look, pair one with a crisp button-down—or seek out a version with a collar and cuffs already attached.

7) Diane von Furstenberg Silk Wrap Dress, $345

Diane von Furstenberg’s iconic wrap dress has long been the outfit of choice for many a stylish working girl. For a fresh take on the flattering style, try the designer’s new double-breasted Empire-waist version. Always hitting at mid-knee, her frock works well with heels of all heights, from comfy flats to sky-high stilettos.

8. Jill Stuart Wool Dress, $528

Just because you have to be buttoned-up doesn’t mean your wardrobe has to be boring. Jill Stuart’s cool, asymmetrical-front frock makes any wearer look lean and mean.

9) Burberry Belted Shirtdress, $375

What the three-piece suit is to men, the button-down shirtdress is to women. Crisp and classic and flattering on a variety of ages and shapes, the fuss-free dress makes its wearer come across as cool, calm, and collected.

10) Plenty Chemise Dress, $320

For those in creative fields, there’s plenty of cool yet understated looks to choose from. Avoid bright, beachy hues (lest your boss think you’d rather be soaking up the sun) and stick to more somber autumnal shades. Tracy Reese’s tiered-skirt version is festive without being flirty, just the thing for the casual business meeting.

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