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The 13 Best Work Dresses from Zara (That Won't Get You in Trouble with HR)
By Stephanie Meraz,
6 hours ago
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I’m of the mindset that my workwear wardrobe can always use a refresher. Don’t get me wrong: While trousers and blazers and pencil skirts are corporate staples, they can sometimes feel a little tired, especially on days when I outfit repeat. The office is the time you want to dress to impress…emphasis on dress. A dress is one of those pieces you rely on when you’re in a rush and it still looks put together, but finding one that’s office-appropriate isn’t always easy. Circling back with some good news: I went to work (literally) and analyzed one of my favorite Spanish retailers (aka, Zara ), and found that they have some of the best work dresses that fit the bill and look cute as can be. So, if you want to avoid an email from HR, try one of these 13 dresses from Zara that I compiled, from button-downs to belted shirtdresses to drop-waist silhouettes and more in an array of colors and prints that don’t feel like those dreary ‘ole corporate pieces.
But before I dive, I checked in with my own company’s HR to get a clear understand of what’s acceptable. When it comes to dressing for the office, “The goal is to promote an environment where everyone feels free to be themselves, comfortable and included,” says Monica Cruz , Gallery Media Group’s senior associate of people and experiences. “The key is to keep it professional, especially in workplaces where clients and vendors frequent.” She suggests avoiding super short hems and anything sheer that might reveal undergarments. A good rule of thumb is to wear a tank top and leggings under fabrics that might look see-through, and save dresses with cut-outs for weekends. Gallery Media Group’s Vice President of People and Experience Kelly Piscitelli agrees, saying, “I always err on the side of dressing to feel confident, professional and put together.”
Is it a dress or separates? I’ll leave that up for the break room debate, though only you’ll know that this chic stunner is a dress. With its A-line silhouette and belted waistband (that is adjustable, might I add), you’ll be ready to command a boardroom one minute, take over the social media account the next then grab some Aperol cocktails after you clock out, all in a day’s work.
A shirtdress is always a good idea for the office. It keeps the traditional and classic look of your button-up blouse but makes it into an effortless dress that not only looks put together, it’s also incredibly comfortable. I especially like that this one comes with pre-rolled sleeves and a belt.
I don’t know who needs to hear this, but silky silhouettes aren’t reserved for formal events. So go ahead and give your satin midi skirt a break and throw on this sleeveless viscose dress. The luxe material has a gorgeous effect that looks like liquid on the body, and there’s a pronounced tonal topstitching detail that really breaks up the design. While it doesn’t have sleeves, the round neckline is very modest, and you’ll be thrilled to discover the hidden pockets at the sides perfect for storing those desk snacks and loose Post-it notes.
While I’m a huge fan of black and navy dresses, there’s something so fun about this tie-dye khaki that’s fresh, fashionable and fun yet still office-appropriate, especially with the modest length and neckline. It’s one of those dresses that oozes sophistication, which I’ll chalk up to its column fit and flattering ruching. I’d wear it to the office with some comfortable sneakers or mesh ballet flats in the summer and then with knee-high boots and a chunky sweater come fall.
If you’re company permits a tasteful mini dress in the office, then you’ll want to consider this poplin frock. It features elbow-length sleeves to balance out that short length, and a belt that helps define your frame and give you shape. This dress is really all in the details, from the tonal buttons to the eyelet embroidery, and a great way to show your personality while still keeping it profesh.
This isn’t your average shirtdress. It’s tenniscore meets corporate with that fit-and-flare skirt and pleated design. The polyester blend has 10 percent elastane, so it’ll be super soft on your skin and have an impressive amount of stretch to it. While the buttons are just for looks and not actually functional, there is a hidden zipper at the side that’ll make it a breeze to slip on and off. Don’t hesitate to wear it with skin-color opaque tights if you want to make it less leggy.
Balloon puff-sleeves, 100 percent cotton and a pleated waist? Yes, please…to all of it. And I must talk about this black and white print. It reminds me of burgeoning buds of a cherry blossom tree in the spring. Make like a royal and keep the ensemble sleek with some pointed-toe pumps. One thing to note: There is an opening at the back that sits quite low, so I’d suggest wearing a backless strapless bra (aka, stickies) or an undershirt.
Splash some color on that cubicle with this pink and white printed dress. In summer, long-sleeve dresses may not be top of mind, but the thin, airy fabric ensures you won’t overheat. The front of the dress is adorned with frilly ruffles, which will add some movement and texture at the bodice, plus the waist—that, yes, comes equipped with a belt—is elastic, so it won’t feel restrictive in the slightest. Just make sure you spritz a floral perfume to bring the print to life.
If I had to name my favorite trend of summer ’24, it’d have to be a drop-waist silhouette. It’s elegant, stretchy (hello, smocking) and literally elongating, especially if you have a short torso. While it is sleeveless, it’s one of those dresses that’ll look complete with a sweater or light cardigan atop, and the balloon bottom is undoubtedly a conversation starter and fashion moment in one.
While I love a belted dress as much as PureWow readers, I’m also a sucker for an unconventional button-down dress. For instance, this midi shirtdress looks like it’s made from denim, but it’s actually comprised of 97 cotton and three percent elastane, so rather than being stiff and restrictive, it’ll actually be breathable, comfy and stretchy. Speaking of stretch, the sides of the waist are ruched, making for a flattering fit along your stomach.
Clearly, balloon skirts aren’t going anywhere, so this is your sign to add this cotton number in your weekly workwear rotation. It’s made from a breathable cotton blend and is in the It shade of the summer , aka butter yellow . And for any gals blessed with big boobs, you’ll love the square neckline—which will flatter the girls—and the wide straps for support.
A blazer dress is one of the most versatile dresses you can own . For one, it’s modernizing a traditional work piece. It’s also one of those dresses that can make an easy transition to happy hour. Many blazer dresses can veer too sexy, but between the thickness of the lapels and the weightiness of the polyester, this reads sophisticated. I’d even layer a long-sleeve shirt underneath come the cooler months.
When I saw PureWow’s Editor-in-Chief, Jillian Quint , wear a black knit midi dress to the office recently, I made a mental note to add it to my list of to-buys because it looked so stylish and comfortable. Considering this Zara number is made from a stretchy knit material, I think it’s safe to assume that I’m right—it’ll be comfy. I’m loving the black and white stripes, but it also comes in a classic black shade and a mesmerizing light blue, too. All that’s missing is an oversize blazer and tons of accessories: belt, earrings, bracelets and heels, of course.
PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
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