I Was in a Winter Workwear Rut Until I Came Across Zara and HM’s New-In Sections
From cool jackets to polished knits, these 27 finds make returning to the office exciting.
I don't know about you, but it has not been easy to get back into the swing of things after the holidays. I've lost all motivation to put together outfits that don't involve sweatpants, which is a problem considering I'm returning to the office in 2026. I need fresh inspiration for winter workwear ASAP, so naturally, I'm turning to Zara and HM.
Anytime my shopping list involves on-trend pieces that won't break my budget, my first instinct is to peruse the new-in sections at both retailers. They did not lead me astray—after scrolling through Zara and HM's new collections, I have a newfound appreciation for office dressing, and I'm blaming it on all of the chic jackets, trousers, rich-looking sweaters, and tops I spotted.
To put a pep in your New Year styling step, I've rounded up all of the new under-$100 workwear finds that caught my eye. Whether it's a sweater dress or trending balloon pants, rest assured, the items below will make going back to the office exciting again—all for under $175, too.
Look like your favorite It girl with minimal effort involved with this sweater in your rotation.
Obsessed is an understatement when it comes to this belted knit.
This blazer is as cool as they come.
Add a pair of tights and knee-high boots, and you're good to head out the door.
My hack for comfortable office outfits? Pull-on pants.
Layer this turtleneck under all of your winter looks for instantly chicer (and warmer!) outfits.
The funnel collar on this jacket feels fresh for 2026.
Balloon pants are here to stay in the new year.
If you can get away with wearing jeans to the office, opt for a polished straight-leg, dark-wash pair.
When in doubt, a fancy sweater is the way to go.
This argyle-printed knit was practically made with office dressing in mind.
I have these pants in black and they are well worth scooping them up in another color.
These are so much cooler than your average pair of wide-leg trousers.
Athleisure, but make it chic.
You can't go wrong with a big sweater.
Half-zip sweaters are taking over for winter, and I'm not mad about it.
With polished pleats and a zippered hem, leggings can be elevated enough for the office.
This olive green top will take you from day to night seamlessly.
Give your go-to black trousers a break with this grey pair.
Be sure to grab this bomber jacket for a cool matching set.
This tie-neck blouse comes with plenty of styling options.
A button-down shirt will always be a workwear staple.
A boho blouse like this is just what you need to spice up your denim-on-denim outfits.
Why wear a basic T-shirt when this knitted version exists?
An elevated neckline makes a world of difference in your basic tops.
For a fun pop of color, simply tie this knit over your shoulders.
When you don't know what to wear, pair these jeans with a cream sweater for a chic winter white look.
