Workplace attire a has undergone a lot of changes since the pre-pandemic days, and now with Generation Z entering the workforce, it’s changing once again. With the rise of working from home, workplace fashion has become increasingly casual. Neckties are things of the past, and jeans are no longer limited to once a week. Gen Z is continuing this casual trend, but with our own spin.
As a member of Gen Z, there are a few things that I and other Gen Zers look for when it comes to workplace wear. For example, I’ve tried to create a capsule wardrobe. This term that’s all over social media and in fashion magazines like Vogue refers to cultivating a small but versatile wardrobe of mix-and-match basics. This shopping method clears up closet space, makes picking an outfit a breeze and limits consumption.
Kate Murray, communications and public relations specialist at American Solutions for Business – the No. 10 distributor in the PPAI 100 – attests to this, explaining that Gen Z “builds off base layers.”
“Classic and versatile pieces like staple T-shirts, tank tops and body suits are paired with jeans or classic slacks. On top of these staples, we see blazers, vests and sweaters,” Murray says.
When looking for apparel items for Gen Z, it’s crucial to find pieces that are “very timeless [with] clean lines [and] clean colors,” as Emily Codner, director of affiliate services at iPROMOTEu – the No. 11 distributor in the PPAI 100 – puts it.
Limiting our use of fast fashion and buying products that are sustainably and ethically made is crucial to me and many other Gen Z workers. When it comes to our preferred accessories, function and style are key. Gone are the days of utilitarian backpacks or bulky briefcases – Gen Zers want to show our personality in every item we own. Additionally, products with multiple functions can help cut down on consumption, helping to support sustainability efforts.
“It’s more than just incorporating a product made with recycled materials, too,” says Taylor Borst, senior director of marketing and vendor relations at American Solutions for Business. “There has to be an authentic story behind why or how the product is sustainably sourced, delivered and drives behavior once in use.” She says products with social good and give-back initiatives can be a great way to connect with this audience as well.
Another important element is color. Whitney Robinson, strategic marketing manager at Vantage Apparel – the No. 12 supplier in the PPAI 100 – explains that “social media, especially TikTok, is a driving force behind most of [Gen Z’s] fashion choices.”
Color has been at the forefront of many recent social media trends, such as the Barbie pink craze last summer to the more recent “Brat Green” trend.
“I think Gen Z realized that you can’t stand out if you blend in, and I love that,” says Abby Burke, national account executive at Walker-Clay – the No. 91 distributor in the PPAI 100.
Now that you know what Gen Z looks for in their office attire, here are some product suggestions to inspire you.
This Urban Pullover Hoodie gives hoodies a fashionable update, replacing strings with a sleek, layered look, making it sure to become a new go-to piece in any Gen Zer’s wardrobe. It’s offered in unisex sizing with a comfy, relaxed fit, making it a perfect choice regardless of gender. It also comes in a variety of trendy colors as well as timeless neutrals.
Lane Seven Apparel / PPAI 630869, Standard-Base / lanesevenapparel.com
A cropped Women’s 1/2 Zip Pullover is a great choice for elevated athleisurewear that’s trendy but also quite practical. It’s nice for layering on a chilly day in the office or for wearing around town. This pullover has a kangaroo pocket and a comfy oversized fit and comes in neutral shades as well as Atlantic (shown), a marine-inspired deep teal blue. It’s made by 100% sweatshop-free labor using eco-friendly processes to reduce C02 emissions and use seven times less water than average clothing manufacturers.
BELLA + CANVAS / PPAI 304892, Silver / bellacanvas.com
The Stanley Quencher has been all over social media for the past year, and this Bottle Buddy Deluxe Water Bottle Pouch is a perfect companion to any large water bottle. According to Liz Haesler, global chief merchandising officer at PCNA, PPAI 100’s No. 3 supplier, “this surge in popularity has driven the demand for add-on water bottle accessories, leading to the creation of new product categories like pouches and slings that attach to water bottles.” This pouch is designed to keep your hands free and store a ton. It has a gripped back for staying put and double pockets. Also, it’s made with recycled materials and sales include a donation to environmental nonprofits via 1% for the Planet.
PCNA / PPAI 113079, Platinum / pcna.com
Preppy basics still play a big role in the workplace. The Devon & Jones CrownLux Performance Men’s Plaited Tipped Polo is an elevated basic with fashionable details. This polo has contrasting double-tipped detailing on the sleeves and collar, which adds a bit of flair to this tried-and-true style. It’s made of a moisture-wicking performance fabric sure to keep you looking and feeling cool. This polo comes in five classic colors, including burgundy (shown) and French blue.
alphabroder / PPAI 156993, Platinum / alphabroder.com
The Artisan Shirt Jacket is a workwear-inspired layering piece that can be dressed up or down. Available in an array of seasonal colors, this jacket is windproof and water-resistant and has a chest pocket with a hidden snap that fits a phone perfectly. This piece checks many boxes, including sustainability, as each piece upcycles 19 plastic water bottles.
Storm Creek / PPAI 438091, Gold / stormcreek.com
Brookshire is a PPAI Media intern editorial assistant.
