‘Work appropriate’ is loaded with old-fashioned ideas of respectability and the rules of the patriarchy. But for many, there are certain requirements when it comes to dressing for the office – and the reliable work dress is a no-brainer.

That is also very much open for interpretation, but for the purpose of this story and shoot, we’ve focused on the sleeper hits from local designer collections: muted colours, simple shapes, versatile and comfortable. Plain? Yes. Always there when you don’t really want to think about what to wear to the office and just want to get on with your to do list? Tick.

Karen Walker dress, $455

I’ve owned several Karen Walker dresses like this one over the years, full and above the knee. Super comfortable and super easy to wear – although risky on a windy day. When the weather is colder, of course layering with tights reduces the chance of people seeing your knickers as you’re crossing the street with your arms full. I love the shape of the sleeves on the one, and the shirred bust. For me a short dress is all about the shoe, I’ve worn this with my chunkiest boots from The Row. - Rebecca Wadey 

Twenty-seven Names pinafore dress, $480, over Standard Issue merino polo shirt, $319

A classic for a reason – I like that pinafore dresses work, for work or play, year round. They’re breezy enough in summer to be worn with nothing more than a tan, a pair of sandals and sunglasses, but can seamlessly transition into autumn wear by layering over a lightweight knit as I’ve done here. With the right styling I would feel equally comfortable wearing this to a music festival or a funeral. - Tyson Beckett. 

Penny Sage dress, $420

Ask anyone who knows me: I am not a dress person. I only have three in my wardrobe – very simple, non-floaty silhouettes – that I’ll wear occasionally in peak Auckland summer. For some reason I’m uncomfortable feeling too girly or lady-like – which is why I live in jeans. That said, I appreciate dresses that are structured relatively ‘straight’ and can be worn casually with sneakers, without getting into Lily Allen territory. I have been eyeing up this chocolate brown number from Penny Sage – the square neckline and nipped waist is super flattering (and supportive; love not worrying about a bra) and it goes well with my brown Adidas Gazelles. Check and check! - Lara Daly

Twenty-seven Names dress, $590

I absolutely am a dress person, with most of my wardrobe made up of dresses short and midi (plus way too many coats and jackets). Their one-and-done versatility appeals to my laziness, and prim style. I usually wear a lot of colour, and if I’m wearing an all-black outfit like this, I’m usually feeling emo, have my period or am hungover… This shift dress (TSN calls it a ‘trapeze’) would be the perfect outfit for all of the above.

SHOP MORE WORK DRESSES:

Kate Sylvester dress, $579

Penny Sage shirt dress, $620

Loclaire button-up dress, $549

Carlson dress, $389

Juliette Hogan tunic dress, $599

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James Bush belted dress, $480

Marle button-up dress, $350

Kowtow pinstripe shirt dress, $329