As Fall 2024 approaches, the professional wardrobe is taking a new direction. I hear from various firms that are encouraging team members to “dress for their day.” This season, I’m seeing a trend toward unstructured yet refined pieces that bring comfort and professionalism together for a balanced look. For men and women, three trends are popping up: bomber jackets, vests, and mesh shoes. People are wearing these pieces in new ways that redefine workwear for men and women.

Trend Highlights & Styling Tips:

Bomber Jackets:

• • For Men: Bomber jackets are transitioning from casual weekend wear to office-appropriate attire, thanks to luxe materials like linen wool blends and suede. You can pair a bomber jacket with tailored chinos and a slim-fit shirt or cashmere sweater for a relaxed and polished look—perfect for creative industries or tech-driven workplaces where a more relaxed dress code is embraced.
  • For Women: Bomber jackets for women are being reinvented in new fabrics, like tweed and satin, and are styled over dresses or paired with high-waisted trousers, offering a modern twist on traditional office attire. Consider your branding colors; opt for neutral tones or fun colors and patterns to stand out and be memorable. A bomber jacket can be a versatile piece in your wardrobe that can work on the weekends in a more casual environment or pair with slacks for office workdays where dress code guidelines require a jacket. Think smart-casual dress code.

Vests:

1. • For Men: Tailored vests are making a comeback in great new fabrics and colors. They can be a sophisticated alternative to a traditional blazer for many. You can wear a vest as a layer over a crisp dress shirt or a polo shirt and pair it with trousers or jeans. Again, this piece can be an excellent addition to your wardrobe that will work on the weekends or during the week. Depending on your style, you can elevate your look with a vest in business-casual environments or creative settings where style meets comfort.
   • For Women: Vests are definitely on trend this year. Whether you opt for a sweater vest or a structured vest, wear it alone or as a layer. Vests for women can be found in contemporary cuts and fun fabrics. Women can style a structured vest with wide-leg trousers or a midi skirt for office wear to create a sleek, modern silhouette or layer it over a crisp white shirt or under a blazer. For women, a vest is a versatile piece that can take you from a casual weekend, office setting, or a more formal meeting setting.

Mesh Shoes:

1. • For Men: A big trend I hear about in the professional office setting is mesh shoes and refined sneakers.  – These are becoming an essential piece for those who value comfort and style. Remember that a too-casual pair can pull down your look, so look for a pair of sleek, monochrome sneakers with tailored trousers and a blazer to create a dynamic and professional look. This trend is perfect for a more relaxed workplace that prioritizes a more dynamic yet polished dress code. Some choose mesh shoes or sneakers that stand out and become a part of their branding and overall look, making them more unforgettable.
   • For Women: Women’s mesh shoes are on trend this fall because they blend practicality, comfort, and design. Whether you wear them with a tailored pant, a chic dress, or a skirt, these shoes can take you from weekend brunch to office chic without compromising on style.

Why These Trends Work for Fall 2024:

Bomber jackets, vests, and mesh shoes are trends responding to the growing demand for unstructured, comfortable, yet professional workwear. As more companies adopt flexible dress codes and hybrid work models, these pieces provide the versatility needed to transition seamlessly from home offices to in-person meetings. The emphasis on quality, comfort, and personal style makes these trends exciting for Fall 2024, offering professionals the opportunity to show up authentically, on brand, and confidently while expressing their individuality and maintaining a polished appearance.