5 unexpected style upgrades to make your work clothes more interesting

Work clothing options for men can feel very repetitive — and even boring — but they don't have to be. Try these swaps for your work clothes.

If you work in an office, you've probably noticed that men's 9-to-5 looks have become very routine. Oxford shirts, polos, khakis, and, depending on the dress code, maybe some jeans. The clothing options for guys can feel very repetitive — and even boring — but they don't have to be.

There are actually some simple swaps you can make to easily up your office style, and you can find them at lululemon. The brand may be best known for its athleisure wear, but it has some fantastic fits for the office as well, including blazers, trousers, and overshirts. There's a lot to choose from, so I'm spotlighting five of my absolute favorites to help you break from tradition. Each one I own feels comfortable, versatile, and effortlessly stylish.

1. Ditch your stuffy polo shirt for a short-sleeve with style

A man wearing work clothes holds a coffee at a cafe.

The author wears the lululemon Airing Easy Short-Sleeve Shirt and ABC Warpstreme Slim-Fit Trousers.

Finding a polished short-sleeve shirt to wear in warm weather can be somewhat limiting, but polos aren't the only option. I personally prefer a button-down, like this navy Airing Easy Short-Sleeve Shirt, which features a subtle grid pattern (it also comes in 15 other colors and patterns). It's lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for scorching summer days.

A lot of untucked shirts tend to look sloppy, but the Airing's fitted cut keeps its silhouette streamlined. The fabric also has some stretch so you don't feel constricted. It's a great piece to pair with chinos and loafers or dark jeans and simple white sneakers.

Airing Easy Short-Sleeve Shirt, Grid Drift Multi Navy

2. Swap the structured blazer for something softer

A man wearing work clothes miles at the camera in front of indoor plants and artwork.

The author wears the lululemon New Venture Blazer and ABC Warpstreme Slim-Fit Trousers.

A blazer is a simple way to elevate an outfit, but some can make you look a bit stiff. Loosen up with the softly textured New Venture Blazer, which has an unconstructed design that's relaxed and refined. It has natural shoulders and a tailored fit from the chest through the waist, plus two-way stretch for ease of movement.

The two-button blazer, which comes in navy, black, and gray, has zippered pockets, a single vent in back, and a zippered inner phone pocket so you can check emails or hop on a call as needed. It's a sharp-looking blazer, and the wrinkle-resistant, water-repellent fabric makes it a must-have for business trips.

New Venture Blazer, True Navy

3. Replace your boring button-down with a brushed cotton shirt

A man wearing work clothes holds a laptop, standing in a library.

The author wears the lululemon Brushed Woven Overshirt and ABC Warpstreme Slim-Fit Trousers.

Oxford and stretch-twill button-downs are a business casual staple but you can only own so many stripes and plaids. This Brushed Woven Overshirt comes in a heathered navy color that works with jeans, khakis, and chinos. Soft and stretchy, the modal blend shirt has a relaxed fit and straight hem to keep the look neat. This type of shirt can be rotated throughout your fall and winter wardrobe, or even in warmer weather if you leave it unbuttoned as as a overshirt.

Brushed Woven Overshirt, Heathered True Navy

4. Kick off those khakis and put on tech trousers

A man wearing clothes for work stands in front of the door of an apartment building and smiles.

The author wears the lululemon ABC Warpstreme Slim-Fit Trousers and Sojourn Overshirt.

For years, khakis and jeans were my go-to work pants, and then I discovered ABC Warpstreme Slim-Fit Trousers. Game changer. They have a clean, tapered fit that never feels too snug, thanks to the stretch polyester fabric. I also appreciate that there's some nice give in the waistband, a lifesaver after a big lunch.

The pants come in 18 colors, and I personally like True Navy, Solar Grey, and Oil Grey, which can easily be dressed up or down with the Everyday Cotton Blend Classic Long-Sleeve T-Shirt, Easy Short-Sleeve Shirt, or Sojourn Overshirt. The ABC Warpstreme Slim-Fit Trousers are the most comfortable pants I own, and they're wrinkle-resistant, so I never have to iron them.

ABC Warpstreme Slim-Fit Trousers, True Navy

5. Try a sleek overshirt instead of a sweater

A man wearing sunglasses and work clothes stands in front of a brick wall.

The author wears the lululemon Sojourn Overshirt and ABC Warpstreme Slim-Fit Trousers.

When the weather — or your office — turns cold, it's time to layer up. The Sojourn Overshirt is an excellent alternative to a sweater, and much more stylish. It has a utilitarian design, with two chest pockets with hidden snaps and two hand pockets with a secret phone sleeve.

Wear it as a lightweight jacket with your everyday work attire, or toss it over a tee and snap it closed for a trendier take on a button-down. The Sojourn comes in neutrals like black, tan, and navy, but for me, sage green is the standout. It's subtle yet sophisticated and perfect for a professional setting.

Sojourn Overshirt, Sassy Sage

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