Gone are the days when men’s officewear meant rigid collars and repetitive shirt-and-pants combinations. Today’s workplace style is shifting towards comfort, versatility, and productivity. The modern 9-to-5 wardrobe is embracing relaxed tailoring and innovative fabric technologies that allow professionals to stay sharp and comfortable throughout the day.
Saurabh Agrawal, Co-Founder and CEO of Harfun, spoke on this transition in men’s workwear, explaining how the idea of dressing for work is no longer confined by outdated norms.
“In recent times, men’s workwear is undergoing a thoughtful transformation. The new normal for office wear isn’t about chasing fleeting trends or sticking to rigid dress codes,” he said. “It is about harnessing fabric technology for peak performance, comfort, and style. Modern professionals are opting for relaxed tailoring, soft and breathable materials, and silhouettes that allow freedom of movement throughout the day, be it during early morning meetings or late-night catch-ups. This is not simply a shift in style, but rather a reflection of a more powerful dressing philosophy, one that values adaptability, longevity, and personal expression.”
Based on this philosophy, Saurabh Agrawal shared his recommendations for building an ideal workwear wardrobe. Here are five key pieces along with expert styling tips that every modern professional should consider:
1. Versatile Trousers: The Everyday Essential
The foundation of a functional office wardrobe starts with trousers designed for comfort and flexibility. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics that resist wrinkles and move effortlessly with the body.
Opt for neutral tones such as charcoal, olive, or stone, which pair easily with most tops. Trousers with stretch waistbands and comfort panels are especially helpful during long hours. A tapered cut works well with loafers or minimalist sneakers, adding polish without compromising comfort.
2. Smart Shirts: Cool, Crisp, and Comfortable
Forget stiff, traditional shirts. Modern work shirts should feel like an extension of your skin. Replace standard cotton with breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool under pressure.
Design details like raglan sleeves enhance mobility, while curved hems ensure shirts stay tucked during meetings but also look neat when worn untucked after hours. For warmer months, choose pastels like mint green or sky blue, and consider micro patterns for a touch of style that’s subtle and office-appropriate.
3. Hybrid Jackets: The Go-To Outerwear
When it comes to outerwear, the hybrid jacket is the ultimate multitasker. Lightweight blazers made from technical fabrics can easily be paired with either a dress shirt or a basic tee.
Select unstructured designs with features like breathable mesh linings, water-repellent finishes, and minimalistic detailing. Colors like navy or khaki work well across both formal and casual settings. Cropped lengths keep the silhouette fresh and contemporary.
4. Elevated Chinos: The Business Casual Staple
Today’s chinos are more than just casual Friday fare. With crease-resistant fabrics and built-in stretch, they’re equipped to handle a full day’s work with ease.
Earth-toned options like terracotta and sand are perfect for summer, while reinforced seams ensure they withstand the wear and tear of everything from daily commutes to back-to-back meetings. Pair them with polos or smart shirts for a balanced business casual look.
5. Performance-Driven Polos: The Modern Power Top
The classic polo has been reimagined with performance in mind. Newer versions feature wrinkle-resistant materials, SPF 50+ sun protection, and four-way stretch for unrestricted motion.
Ideal for busy workdays, these polos are lightweight and moisture-wicking, keeping you fresh and focused. Stick with neutral shades like navy or white for maximum styling flexibility. They work well with tailored trousers for formal meetings or chinos for a more relaxed setting.
This modern approach to officewear not only upgrades a man’s wardrobe but also enhances productivity, comfort, and self-expression at work. With these five essential pieces and practical styling tips, the professional man is now equipped to look sharp, feel great, and perform at his best—every day.
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