As the festive season draws to a close and the calendar flips to Friday 2 January 2026, the challenge of returning to a professional routine looms large. Fashion expert Melanie Wilkinson offers a sartorial solution, advocating for a gentle transition through relaxed, comfortable clothing that bridges the gap between holiday comfort and office readiness.
The Philosophy of Ease-In Dressing
The core idea is to avoid a harsh sartorial shock. Instead of jumping straight into rigid suiting, Wilkinson recommends embracing relaxed silhouettes, cosy fabrics and slipper-adjacent footwear. This approach allows you to mentally and physically ease back into the demands of the workweek without sacrificing style or comfort. The goal is to build an outfit that feels like a gentle nudge towards productivity rather than a forceful shove.
Key Pieces for a Soft Start
The curated selection focuses on versatile, high-quality layers and investment pieces with a laid-back feel. Notable items include a practical £265 jacket from Carhartt WIP and a classic £179 Barbour jacket, perfect for throwing over other pieces. For a smarter twist, a £190 wool blazer from Hush provides structure without stiffness.
Comfort is paramount in the knitwear and tailoring choices. Think of a £139 cardigan from Kiltane or a £155 jumper from Finisterre. Trousers from Cos at £75 and The Frankie Shop at €295 offer elegant, non-restrictive alternatives to formal trousers.
Footwear and Finishing Touches
The concept of 'slipper-adjacent' footwear is key to the look. This is exemplified by £110 shoes from Clarks and £180 loafers from GH Bass, which prioritise comfort without looking like indoor wear. Accessories add personality, with jewellery from YSSO (£310 necklace) and Enamel Copenhagen (£100 earrings). Bags range from an accessible £14.90 Uniqlo tote to a luxury £475 Ganni bag from Liberty.
This guide proves that you can answer the 'what to wear' dilemma for the new year with intelligence and ease. By choosing pieces that are both comforting and considered, you can craft a wardrobe that supports your return to business, making the first week of January 2026 a more stylish and serene experience.
