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The new year is the best time to really look at your wardrobe and do a refresh, particularly when it comes to work outfits.

As we transition from the holiday haze back into the office, there is a collective desire to feel polished, yet prepared, for the inevitable Australian heatwave.

Recently, our fashion experts Lucinda Pikkat and Chelsea Hui sat down to discuss how to reinvent your professional look without having to break the bank on an episode of Nothing To Wear.

Their advice? It's not about a total overhaul; it's about strategic pieces that balance "cool girl" aesthetics with corporate utility.

So, what are their top tips? And what exactly is on trend for wearing to work this year? Here are the six staples defining the season.

Watch: Our experts share how to plan a correct dress code. Post continues below.

1. The Short-Sleeve Blazer.

The traditional blazer is getting a seasonal chop. This hybrid piece offers the structure of a suit jacket with the breeziness of a tee, making it the ultimate solution for a humid January morning.

"I love a short-sleeve suit and blazer, that sort of oversized, cool girl vibe," said Lucinda. "There's a really beautiful one at the moment in Zara. It's a lovely butter colour, again, big colour last season, but I still think it's relevant and will follow through to this year."

Zara Short-Sleeved Textured Blazer, $139.

DISSH Ria Black Short Sleeve Blazer, $199.99.

Commonry Short Sleeve Blazer Navy, $299.95.

Atmos&Here Clemence SS Blazer Jacket, $119.99.

Target Short Sleeve Blazer, $50.

2. Oversized Shirts.

The era of the restrictive, slim-fit button-down is officially over. For 2026, it's all about volume and airflow. Whether tucked into a pair of trousers or worn loosely over a slip dress, the oversized shirt is the "blank canvas" of summer workwear.

"I love an oversized shirt, and particularly in summer," Lucinda noted. The extra room allows for much-needed circulation when the office air conditioning is struggling to keep up.

Uniqlo JW Anderson Oxford Boxy Shirt, $49.50.

City Chic Kenia Shirt, $79.95.

Witchery Cotton Oxford Shirt, $129.

&me Women's Oversized Pocket Shirt, $20.

ASOS Oversized Shirt, $59.

3. Midi Skirts.

If there is one piece that can take you from a high-stakes board meeting to a seaside sunset drink, it's the midi skirt. Its versatility is unmatched, bridging the gap between conservative and contemporary.

"A midi skirt is very versatile. I like to pair it with a button-up shirt and tuck it in, or a more structured top," said Chelsea. "Silk is a great material because it is a natural fibre and really breathable, perfect for those warmer months if you're commuting to and from the office."

SilkSilky 19Momme Mulberry Silk Stretch Long Straight Skirt, $299.95.

DISSH Dina Off White Knit Midi Skirt, $159.99.

Kmart Satin Midi Skirt, $22.

H&M Satin Slip Skirt, $44.99.

Atmos&Here Lydia Gingham Midi Skirt, $69.99.

4. Midi Dresses.

Midi dresses are a summer essential because they offer a "one-and-done" outfit that requires zero coordination during those busy Monday mornings.

Falling between the knee and ankle, the length is universally office-appropriate and sophisticated. Look for A-line silhouettes that skim the body rather than cling to it, ensuring you stay comfortable from your first coffee to your final email.

Tussah Collared Midi Dress, $139.99.

City Chic Lana Midi Shirt Dress, $139.95.

Target European Linen V-Neck Midi Dress, $75.

Decjuba Zoe Shirred Waist Midi Dress, $139.95.

Fayt The Label Denim Midi Dress Blackout, $129.

Country Road Stripe Midi Shirt Dress, $229.

5. Waistcoats.

The waistcoat has officially replaced the blazer as the primary layering piece for 2026. Because it is sleeveless, it allows for maximum airflow and prevents the dreaded "blazer sweat" during your transit.

Its structured lapels and buttoned front provide the same level of authority as a full suit. It's the easiest way to look "tailored" without actually wearing a jacket.

ZARA Buttoned Waistcoat ZW Collection, $79.95.

City Chic Abbie Vest, $99.95.

Decjuba Annabelle Longline Belted Vest, $129.95.

Kmart Sleeveless Crew Neck Waistcoat, $50.

Witchery Tailored Vest, $229.

City Chic Vivien Linen Vest, $99.95.

6. Asymmetrical Tops.

For those looking to inject a bit of personality into their cubicle, asymmetrical tops are the answer. These pieces provide a "creative corporate" edge that breaks the monotony of standard workwear.

With diagonal necklines or off-centre hems, they are highly functional for "desk-to-dinner" transitions, looking like a sharp, professional blouse by day and a high-fashion statement by night.

Witchery Asymmetric Draped T-Shirt, $79.

Atmos&Here Gathered Shoulder Bamboo Top, $49.99.

City Chic Imani Off Shoulder Top, $59.95.

Target Blend Slouchy Asymmetrical T-Shirt, $25.

Dazie Sapphire Ruched Asymmetric Top, $49.99.

Refreshing your work wardrobe for 2026 doesn't mean starting from scratch. By focusing on breathable fabrics like linen and silk, and opting for silhouettes that prioritise movement, you can navigate the Australian summer with ease.

For more helpful style advice and shopping recommendations, subscribe to the weekly Nothing to Wear Substack , listen to the Nothing to Wear podcast or watch Nothing to Wear on YouTube .

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Feature Image: IG @annabellerussell c/o @citychicofficial