How to Dress ‘Corporate Coquette’ Without Getting Fired

By Lara Kramer  •  27 May 2024 in Fashion

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Let’s get real. Fashion TikTok is lying to you, and most of those “cute coquette office fits” would probably get you sent home.

So, what happens when you’re a coquette girlie working under a management that doesn’t seem to appreciate your sheer, pastel pink tights and ballet flats?

Fret not – JUICE is here to help you navigate these perilous waters! Read on for our suggestions on how you can keep being a baddie and infuse your coquette style into the workplace without breaking the rules.

(And a note to our lucky readers with more relaxed dress codes: We’re thrilled for you, but this one’s for the rest of us. No gloating, please. <3)

The Blazer: Your Stylish Shield

Your blazer is your ticket to expressing yourself at the workplace…

There’s nothing more professional-looking than a tailored blazer, but who says you can’t have a little fun with it? Think subtle patterns, unique buttons, or a pop of colour lining.

If you think it’ll fly, we obviously recommend something in your preferred shade of pink! You’ll stand out from the rest, your coquette girl identity visible from miles away – bonus points if the pink blazer look becomes a staple because there’s nothing more iconic than having a signature piece.

And if you’re feeling cheeky, you can always incorporate little ribbons or bows. They can be tied around a button, sewn on, or worn in the form of a tiny brooch. It’s the little touches that make a big difference. 🎀

The Pencil Skirt: For The Formal Flirt

The pencil skirt is probably the only piece of clothing that balances flirtatious and formal. Use it to your advantage.

A-line skirts are a coquette essential, but when it comes to the workplace, pencil skirts are a safer bet. The good news is you don’t have to stick to the plain ones your Aunt Jane passed down to you when she retired – choose ones with interesting textures or even slight asymmetry to keep it playful!

We hate to say it, but you’ll want to avoid anything too tight or short – your coquette charm shouldn’t come at the expense of professionalism.

Another option is to wear boy-shorts, in a cute shade like pink, white, or really whatever matches the rest of your fit. That way, you don’t have to worry too much about your skirt riding up… And if it does, you’re still keeping it coquette. 😉

Get. Kitten. Heels.

Heels are visually ideal for work! Don’t ask me why someone decided it was a good idea for women to wear those torture devices for hours at the office, but the point is they look good and are deemed professional.

This is where kitten heels come in. They’re comfortable, cute, understated, a little flirty (oh, and did we say, cute?!)

Classic pumps or kitten heels in fun colours or patterns can add a coquette twist to your fit without crossing the line into club territory.

(Bonus: If kitten heels are not for you, there are tons of coquette-worthy flats out there. Your ballet flats may stand out in the office, but there are plenty of work-appropriate flat-headed shoes that subtly give off the same vibe. You might want to avoid dark hues like black, brown, or navy, though, if you don’t want your footwear being lost in the rest of your corporate fit.)

Staple Tops For Blazer-Free Days

There are days when your blazer just isn’t ‘it.’ The air conditioner’s broken, there’s an important (and boring) client to please, or your blazer just isn’t blazer-ing.

Enter the cute top collection! We’re keeping it playful, flirtatious, and feminine with tons of pastels and subtle designs. You have a lot to work with here – ruffles, bows, delicate prints. Skip the sheer fabrics and low necklines; you want to hint at your style, not broadcast it.

That doesn’t mean you’ll have to shop in the kids’ section, just check out these fits for example!

You’ll also want to make sure to invest in good, quality material that isn’t see-through or fragile. The goal is still to be memorable for your work, not your wardrobe malfunction…

Accessorise, Accessorise, Accessorise

If you think bows on the outfits or pink statement items are overkill, you can always opt for expressions like hairstyles such as tousled curls and loose buns, or better yet, jewellery that offers a glimpse of your coquette-ness.

A sleek watch or minimalist necklace may look good with your formal fit, but pearls and vintage pieces do too, and offer you a romantic flair while they’re at it.

Just steer clear of anything too flashy or noisy – no one wants to hear your bangles clanging during a meeting (speaking from experience).

Coquette With Caution!

That’s it from us!

Do note that understanding your workplace culture is crucial. Observe what your colleagues and higher-ups wear, and find ways to incorporate your coquette style within those boundaries.

When truly in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask! You probably won’t be terminated over a silky bow in your hair, but it’s always good to be sure.