Western Business Attire: A Style Guide for Working Moms

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I remember that it took me forever to figure out what to wear when I went back to work after the birth of my Litte One.

In the end, I went to a professional stylist, who helped me find my colors and style and put together a “Western Business Attire” that can be easily manageable even if I spend the afternoon with my Daughter at a local playground 😅

What is Western business attire?

According to Wikipedia, 

“Western dress codes are a set of dress codes detailing what clothes are worn for what occasion that originated in Western Europe and the United States in the 19th century.”

In this article I will give it a tweak and include elements from the North American “western” style as well, to add some fun and make it “double western” 😅

So Western business attire is a blend of elegance, functionality, and a touch of western-inspired style that fits seamlessly into modern business settings.

It’s the best way to create a professional and stylish look while celebrating a western-inspired aesthetic. Whether you’re heading back to the office after maternity leave or preparing for a high-level business meeting, understanding this dress code can help you feel confident and put-together.

The Basics of Western Business Attire

At its core, western business attire sticks to the general guidelines of business settings but incorporates subtle elements of western style. Think structured cuts, high-quality materials, and a mix of classic colors like neutral tones, dark colors, and bold pops to show your personal style. This type of wardrobe is a great option for a corporate environment where appropriate attire is essential.

Here are some staples of western business attire 😉:

• Essential Western Shirts: Crisp blouses or button-up shirts are a must-have. Opt for high-quality materials in neutral colors or classic patterns to create a polished look. A button-down shirt paired with dress pants or a skirt suit is always a good idea.
• Dress Pants and Skirts: Straight pants, knee-length skirts, or structured A-line skirts in classic colors make for great choices. They’re versatile pieces that work well in committee rooms, law firms, or any professional space.
• Western-Inspired Details: Add a touch of elegance with western-inspired jewelry, a good belt, or even subtle embellishments on a dress shirt. These details can make a significant impact without being overpowering.

Business Casual Meets Western Wear

For a more casual setting, like a casual wardrobe day at work or informal meetings, blending western wear with business casual staples is the right thing to do. Here’s how you can achieve a balance:

• Dark-Wash Jeans: These are a good option if your workplace dress code leans towards business casual. Pair them with a structured blazer and a crisp blouse for a western-inspired look that’s still appropriate clothing.
• Cowboy Boots: While you might not wear cowboy hats to the office, a sleek pair of cowboy boots can be a great thing to incorporate into your work wardrobe. Pair them with dress pants or long skirts for a western-inspired touch.
• Denim Jackets: In a casual setting, a denim jacket layered over a neutral dress shirt or blouse can create a lasting impression while staying within the bounds of business casual.

Western Attire in Formal Settings

If your workplace or event, like a MUN conference or a high-level business meeting, requires a more formal style, stick to pieces like:

• Full Suits: A gray suit or pants suits in luxurious fabrics are ideal for female delegates or those in high-profile roles. Adding a touch of western-inspired jewelry can subtly personalize the outfit.
• Dress Skirts and Skirt Suits: For a sophisticated look, opt for knee-length skirts paired with structured blazers and closed-toe shoes like high heels or low heels.

Building Your Work Wardrobe

Western business attire allows room for creativity while maintaining professionalism. Start with the basics—a pair of pants, a button-down shirt, and dress shoes in neutral tones—and build your wardrobe by adding different outfits over time.

Incorporate bold colors or western-inspired accessories to reflect your personality while adhering to the dress code. At the end of the day, the great thing about western clothing is its versatility—it’s a good belt here, a pinto ranch collection piece there, and suddenly, you’ve created a work wardrobe that’s uniquely you.

Whether you’re walking into committee rooms, a law firm, or answering life’s little questions in the office, western business attire is the best way to make a lasting impression and showcase a touch of your personal style.

Tips and Tricks for Working Moms

Balancing work and motherhood often feels like juggling a million things at once. The good news? A well-planned wardrobe can make your mornings smoother and your afternoons more enjoyable. Here are some tips and tricks for selecting easily variable sets that transition seamlessly from the office to time with your kids:

• Invest in Mix-and-Match Basics: Choose convertible pieces like a neutral button-up shirt, dress pants, and straight skirts that can easily be dressed up or down. The great thing about these classics is that they’re timeless and work for different outfits.
• Layer Strategically: A lightweight blazer or cardigan is perfect for a structured office look in the morning but can be shed for a casual walk with the kids in the afternoon. Neutral tones work best here because they’re easy to pair with almost anything.
• Choose Comfortable Shoes: Closed-toe flats, low heels, or even sleek loafers can provide a polished office vibe while still being practical for chasing little ones around later. Avoid anything too rigid that’ll make your feet ache by the end of the day.
• Opt for Fabrics That Last: Luxurious fabrics like high-quality cotton or wrinkle-resistant materials keep you looking sharp throughout the day. They’re also durable enough to withstand everyday life with kids.
• Add a Statement Piece: A bold necklace or scarf can elevate your work look without much effort. The great thing about accessories? They’re easy to swap out if you’re heading to a more casual setting.
• Stick to a Color Palette: Creating a wardrobe with complementary colors—like navy, beige, gray, and soft pastels—lets you mix and match effortlessly. This is a significant impact hack for building a wardrobe that works double duty.
• Denim for the Win: Keep a pair of dark-wash jeans on hand for a quick swap when heading out with your kids. Pair them with a tucked-in blouse or a denim jacket for a western-inspired look that’s casual but put-together.
• Pack a Quick Change Bag: Keep a casual wardrobe staple, like a comfortable tee or leggings, in your bag. After work, you can easily switch into something more relaxed for family time.

Takeaway

Western business attire is more than just clothing—it’s a way to blend professionalism with personality, making it easier to transition from work to everyday life. By focusing on variable, high-quality pieces and incorporating subtle western-inspired touches, you can create a wardrobe that’s polished and adaptable.

Whether you’re at a boardroom meeting or taking an afternoon walk with your kids, this style allows you to feel confident, comfortable, and stylish.

With the right balance of practicality and flair, western business attire becomes a powerful tool to navigate both professional and personal spaces effortlessly.