They say you should dress for the job you want, not the one you have. With the new year upon us, it’s time to realign with your career goals and do exactly that. Whether you’re gunning for a promotion or starting your own business, here are the top five trends to incorporate into your workwear wardrobe right now.

Whether it’s leopard, cheetah, zebra or giraffe, animal print is back for another season. This time around, we’re taking this evening standard into the daytime for a fierce approach to workwear attire. Confidence is key when wearing animal print, especially if your outfit is composed of a lot of it (though a little goes a long way, too). Pair a printed dress with minimalist accessories to prevent the ensemble looking too busy.

Free 2BU leopard-print dress 179.95

If animal print doesn’t do it for you but you’d still like to incorporate print into your wardrobe, look to pieces in a fine tartan or check. Pair a tartan skirt with a delicate, solid-colour pussy-bow blouse for a subtle yet impactful look, or dare to be bold in a tartan-print dress. Pair it with a vibrantly coloured accessory (like a bag) to look extra chic.

Free 2BU checked dress 179.95

Striped pieces are staples in any workwear wardrobe. This season, however, black and white stripes in varying degrees of thickness are the key to a successful outfit. Look to vertical or diagonal stripes to flatter and elongate your form, and combine the two for a more interesting approach to the trend. Wear yours with a bright pair of shoes or a handbag in a solid colour for a touch of personality.

Kelso striped pencil skirt 249.95

Jumpsuits have become a standard piece on the catwalk in almost every designer’s collection, and we’re here for it. They’re great as workwear because you need only jump into one item in the morning and you’re ready to go – especially nifty when you’re running late for work. Wear yours on its own or layer it over a blouse for dressier occasions. This is one item you can really get creative with.

Kelso striped sleeveless jumpsuit 399.95

Nothing says ‘I’m ready for business’ more than a two-piece suit. However, this year, ditch that stiff and stuffy structured suit and opt for lighter, floaty fabrics in soft pinks or neutrals, like beige or white (it is summer, after all). Go full glam by wearing it with a feminine cami and all the necessary accessories.

Kelso pink blazer 549.95; Kelso pink formal trousers 299.95

If the dress code of your office is business-casual, 'broguing it' is a safe decision, as it’s a shoe that looks more formal than it does casual. A wingtip is a brogue with decorative detailing on an extended toecap. Pair your chosen brogues with a suit or chinos for the best office-appropriate look.

Charter Club windowpane suit jacket 2199; Charter Club formal shirt 499.95; Guess link watch 1995

Sitting somewhere comfortably between smart and casual, the Chelsea boot adds a stylish glide to your stride. A sleek boot in a rich colour (try dark tan or black) pairs well with a sharp navy or black suit. This boot is easy to pull on thanks to the elasticated gusset on the inside, and its ankle height is flattering and edgy.

Charter Club windowpane check suit jacket 2199.95; Charter Club formal shirt 499.95; Charter Club windowpane check suit trouser 1199.95; Silicone-strap watch (part of set) 279.99; Laptop bag 1299; Anklets 59.95; Signature Chelsea boots 699

While your work may be relaxed in its dress code, there is still an unspoken rule regarding sneakers in the office. Because we wear our sneaks so often (being the most comfortable shoes known to man), they have the potential to look a little shabby. To avoid your sneakers bringing down your whole outfit, make sure they’re in tip-top shape – and clean! Sticking to neutral tones is also a good idea when donning sneaks at work.

Stone Harbour slim-fit denims 599.95; Jack Purcell Converse lace-up sneakers 899

The Oxford is every man's go-to shoe for when he wants to spruce up for a special event or for a day of meeting with clients. Its silhouette is sophisticated to say the least, and its aesthetic is clean and means business. An added bonus is that this shoe can walk you straight from the desk to a formal event straight after work. Play around with styling the shoe to avoid looking the same every day. A black leather pair goes nicely with a black or blue suit, for instance. 

D66 suit pants 499.95; Polka dot anklets 59.95; Signature Oxford lace-up shoes 799

For the man who’s non-traditional yet sophisticated, a pair of stylish monk-strap brogues will make an impact both to your outfit and (we like to think) in the boardroom. This shoe exudes a gentlemanly charm, while the metal hardware adds an edge to your overall look. If you pair a belt and a watch in matching shades to the shoes, your finished look will be perfectly polished. We approve!

Signature windowpane check print trouser 599.95; Bata double-strap formal shoe 999

All items subject to availability. Prices may change.

Whisky tumbler set 179.97

A good whisky (and we know there will be at least one bottle under your tree…) deserves an equally good glass if it’s to be enjoyed properly. This set is perfectly crafted to make the most of the aroma and flavours of your favourite tipple.

Watch this space daily, right up until Christmas Eve, for more ideas...

Estée Lauder Sensuous Eau De Parfum Spray 50ml 599

The launch of Estée Lauder’s Sensuous EDP saw a move for the brand from lighter, more floral fragrances to one of its first opulent orientals. The idea was to create a scent that represented the warm, feminine nature of a woman: confidence balanced with grace, and strength tempered by softness.  Top notes of lily, magnolia and jasmine give way to a heart of molten wood and amber, with a warm base of pepper, sandalwood, mandarin pulp and a touch of honey.

Watch this space daily, right up until Christmas Eve, for more ideas...

Puma logo active sports bra 550

When you’re pushing your body to its limits, your underwear should be the last thing on your mind. Built for comfort and performance, this sports bra from Puma features padded cups, an elasticated bust, adjustable straps and ventilated back support. It’ll take care of your assets, so you can focus on the next kilometre.

Watch this space daily, right up until Christmas Eve, for more ideas...

This season’s side-stripe detail is still a big trend and has carried over to your swim shorts. This design detail is best seen on mid-thigh to longer lengths that fall just below the knee.