As more people return to office routines across the UK, workwear is shifting toward a blend of polish and comfort. A new survey from TK Maxx shows that employees are updating their wardrobes to align with the realities of hybrid working, which has reshaped expectations about what “smart” dressing looks like in 2025.

Hybrid patterns continue to influence how people dress. TK Maxx reports that 38% of workers are spending more days in the office than last year. Wider national data supports this shift. The Virgin Media O2 Business Movers Index shows that three quarters of UK companies now require staff to attend at least three days a week, compared with 67% a year earlier. The share of firms requiring four days has risen from 46% to 50%. Eptura’s 2025 Workplace Index adds that 34% of businesses plan to increase attendance this year and that workplace visitor numbers per location have nearly doubled over the past three years.

This return to the office has influenced how staff present themselves. Among workers aged 16 to 34, 62% say their wardrobe has become more formal. The figure climbs to 72% among senior leaders. Yet comfort remains the most important factor. Nearly half of employees, at 47%, say comfort is their top priority, ahead of looking professional at 37% and dressing for the weather at 33%. More than a third also say that switching between office and home makes choosing outfits “more confusing.”

Overall, 45% of office workers say they are dressing more formally than before, although formal attire has evolved. Many are leaning toward styles described as “Smart” at 27% and “Smart Casual” at 25%. Items such as blazers are proving popular because they are suitable for both styles while offering flexibility throughout the day.

Workwear remains a clear investment. The survey shows that 72% of employees buy clothing specifically for work and that 40% keep a separate wardrobe for office wear. Younger workers are even more likely to separate their wardrobes, with 77% of those aged 16 to 24 and 81% of those aged 25 to 34 doing so. The average cost of a work outfit is £119.75. Men spend about £141 and women spend about £99.

Dressing for work also carries a sense of personal meaning. TK Maxx found that 28% of workers enjoy expressing their style through their office clothes and that 24% feel the right outfit motivates them for the day ahead.

TK Maxx highlighted several considerations for assembling a modern office wardrobe.

• Invest in versatile staples. Blazers, tailored trousers and classic shirts remain practical choices that can be worn in many combinations.
• Choose comfort with polish. Fabrics with breathability and gentle stretch help maintain ease while keeping shape.
• Add personality with accessories. Bags, shoes or jewellery can refine an outfit without compromising workplace expectations.

With designer brands and quality workwear available at up to 60% less than the usual retail price, TK Maxx says staff can refresh their wardrobes affordably. As hybrid working settles into long term routines, this period marks a continued shift toward clothing that supports professionalism and comfort in equal measure.