Managing work and personal life is often a balancing act, with our calendars packed to the brim every month. Weekdays usually mean heading to the office from 9 to 5, followed by post-work plans. Ideally, you’d head home for a quick wardrobe change, but this isn’t always the option. So how should you dress for work when you’ve got dinner, drinks, or a date night straight after? Desk-to-dinner outfits provide a solution by helping you transition your look from day to night through versatile pieces. In this article, we’re sharing how to build a desk-to-dinner outfit using key wardrobe items. 1. Dark Chinos Dark-coloured chinos are a must-have in your wardrobe due to their versatility. Modern chinos in dark shades like Navy, Forest and Black can give the appearance of smart trousers to make you look dressier while staying comfortable all day long. Dark chinos are also a practical option in case you accidentally spill your coffee or lunch earlier in the day.For warmer days and evenings, chino shorts are also suitable for desk-to-dinner outfits. Shorts are less formal than trousers, so pair them with a crisp button-down shirt for a neat look. 2. Collared Shirts Wear a collared shirt in a complementary colour to style with your chinos. For example, if you’re wearing navy chinos, create a tonal look with a light blue shirt. Or, if you want to experiment with colour, try a muted yellow or burnt orange shirt. While collared shirts are safe for any dress code, you don’t have to stick to a classic Oxford shirt. In recent years, most work dress codes have relaxed, allowing for more casual styles like short-sleeves, loose-fit shirts or playful prints. Luckily, the line between business and casual attire is blurring, which makes desk-to-dinner dressing easier for men. Polos are another classic collared shirt option, especially for warm weather. Depending on the occasion, you can tuck your shirt in or leave it out. 3. Layers Layers play a crucial role in creating a day-to-night outfit. They serve practical benefits, like dressing for the weather, and style purposes, like elevating or toning down an outfit. Whether adding a sports jacket for a business meeting or taking it off for a relaxed meal after hours, adding or subtracting a layer can help you dress for your setting. There’s an easy layering option for every season: linen sports jackets for summer, wool sports jackets for winter, and puffer vests or knitwear for transitional seasons like spring or autumn. 4. Accessories The right accessories can enhance a desk-to-dinner outfit. With footwear, opt for leather shoes like Chelsea boots or leather sneakers, which balance style and comfort for all-day wear. A bulky backpack isn’t ideal for after-work events. Instead, try a leather weekender bag to carry your work essentials. As a finishing touch, wear a belt and consider adding or removing a tie or hat when heading to your post-work plans. Desk to Dinner Outfit Ideas A desk-to-dinner outfit is built on key elements: dark chinos, a collared shirt, seasonal layers, and simple accessories. Possible outfit ideas include Navy Pique Polo, Stretch Jeans in Dark Indigo with a Performance Houndstooth Sports Jacket in Blue. Non-iron check shirt, Modern Chino in Sand with a Performance Sports Jacket in Navy. Tailored Casual Oxford Shirt in Blue, Modern Stretch 5 pocket pant in Limestone with a Navy Leather Sneaker. Easy care check shirt in Burgundy, Stretch Bedford Cord in Bison with the Stretch Houndstooth in Navy. Nail your business casual style with GAZMAN. Update your wardrobe with versatile men’s clothing and accessories that take you day to night. Shop our latest arrivals, or check out the GAZMAN Journal for more style tips.