Whatever way you get to work, arrive on time in style
Planes, trains and automobiles are just some methods employed to transport ourselves to and from the office every day.
It’s about that time of year when many of us will be returning to work, and we take a look
Whether youtrek to work on foot or take advantage of public transport services, getting there unflustered requires some tactics.
An easy dress that takes you from the office to after five functions, a blazer that’s not too heavy, but not too light for unpredictable weather, earphones for the journey in between home and work and a bag that’s large enough for everything from documents, laptops and lunch boxes. The requirements are plenty.
There’s a lot to consider when preparing for the day, as evidenced by our shoot across the bustling CBD of Tāmaki Makaurau; whether it’s on one of the city’s various Auckland Transport services, pounding the pavement or making use of newly implemented cycle lanes, a supportive and professional wardrobe that travels well is an essential part of ensuring you have a successful day.
Cache & Carry
Clean-cut tailoring and wireless accessories offer a shortcut to efficiency.
Aboard a Fullers360 ferry (be sure to download the helpful MyFerry app to access timetables and fares), a sturdy tote is an easy way to carry your daily essentials as you navigate your way to and from work. Hassle-free and hands-free, consider a phone strap for easy access and wireless headphones to make the journey even more efficient. Minimalist, clean lines provide a contemporary and versatile edge to workwear, like this crisp, collarless Harris Tapper jacket $729 and Rebe mini skirt $295. Apple iPhone Pro Max from $2399 and Apple AirPods Max $999. Levante fishnet tights (worn throughout), $23, from Farmers. Cos boots $525. Palorosa tote bag, $349, and Ina Seifart phone chain (POA) from Scotties.
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About Town
Statement accessories are the only thing required to take an everyday look to the next level.
Whether it’s a voluminous bag or an equally statement-making pair of sunglasses, a daily commute can also be an opportunity to have fun with accessories. Acne jacket (POA) from Scotties. Beach Brains trousers $379. Garret Leight sunglasses $765. Cos clutch $525. Missoma rings, $219, from Fabric.
Graphics & Design
One print dress to rule them all.
A singular printed dress is the type of working wardrobe staple that doesn’t require much thought, and for something unique, you can’t look past the offering from a designer who specialises in modern workwear – Juliette Hogan. The designer (who celebrated 20 years in business last year) is fluent in the power of a print dress, creating bespoke prints inspired by her love of abstract art. This 100% silk dress, $699, features a graphic and geometric pattern rendered in autumnal, earthy hues that feels appropriate for every professional moment, and is interesting enough to convey a sense of personal style. Mi Piaci heels $280. The addition of classic piece of jewellery like a vintage fob chain, is another easy way to keep things chic. Vintage 9ct rose gold paper clip chain fob chain, $6500, from Walker & Hall. Lovisa chain belt $38.
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A striped shirt is a preppy staple worth investing in.
An assortment of business shirts provides the perfect building block for a professional look – particularly one that deals in stripes. Tucked inside a tidy pair of smart shorts, skirts or trousers, and layered underneath a faithful blazer, a business shirt is an easy way to get your mind into gear for the working day ahead. Porter James Sports shirt $175 and pleated shorts $195. Working Style tie $149. Apple AirPods Max $999. R.M Williams belt $169. Missoma ring, $219, from Fabric.
Circle Back
Versatile outwear for every element is a vital part of workwear commuting.
Waterproof gear that’s both practical and smart can protect your office ensemble if your commute involves battling the elements. If you’re out cycling, consider a lightweight jacket that’s easy to transport and layer as you navigate the city’s various cycle lanes or paths. Some bike paths are separated from some or all traffic, or shared with people walking. Paloma Wool jacket, $549, from Infinite Definite and Paloma Wool trousers $590, from Good As Gold. Cos tote bag $325. Bobbin bike $620.
She’s Got the Beat
A suit of a different kind offers a fresh take on workwear.
Matching, co-ordinated separates allow you to feel pulled together without having to prescribe to predictable blazers and trousers. A monochromatic set from Kowtow is an ideal way to add colour to a working wardrobe while providing the right amount of versatility to incorporate into a weekend wardrobe too. Jade takes it to the street on foot for her commute with the addition of a complementary hair accessory that’s also ripe for a revival - the headband. Kowtow jacket $369 and pleated shorts (POA). Yu Mei bag $395. Jennifer Behr satin headband $459. Stanley Cup $90.
News of the Day
Rain or shine, a trench with a twist is a wardrobe saviour.
Everywhere you go, you’ll always take the weather, and one failsafe investment item is a classic trench. Layered over everyday workwear, it’s the perfect piece for commutes, whatever the season. Cos trenchcoat with hood $450. Rembrandt shirt $139. Yu Mei regenerated nylon bag $395. Apple AirPods Max $999. Cos boots $525. Polo Ralph Lauren tie, $167, from The Iconic.
Future Proofing
A textural skirt that skims the shins is another easy wardrobe addition to segue between autumn, winter and spring.
Waitematā Station (Britomart) Centre is Auckland’s major transportation hub and serves as a vital interchange between trains, buses and ferries. Opting for a sleek leather mid-skirt with a simple blazer is an outfit formula that is both timeless and seasonless. Juliette Hogan blazer $999 and skirt $549. Mi Piaci heels $280. Missoma ring, $219, from Fabric.
Homeward Bound
Harris Tapper jacket $729 and Rebe mini skirt $295. Levante fishnet tights (worn throughout), $23, from Farmers. Cos boots $525. Yu Mei regenerated nylon bag $395.
Photographer / Scott Hardy. Fashion director / Dan Ahwa. Model / Jade Theron from Red 11. Make-up / Anna Guo from An Era Creative. Hair / Ansel Xu from Ryder Salon and An Era Creative. With thanks to Auckland Transport and Fullers360.
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