words Alexa Wang
The Mod subculture, born in the 1960s, was an amalgamation of sharp tailoring, British elegance, and a penchant for bold yet understated style. Fast track to today, and Mod fashion has left its mark on mainstream style well beyond the confines of its original youth culture. How does one take that sleek, retro charm of Mod clothing and place it into the modern office without looking too casual or out of place?
Fortunately, Mod clothing – with its clean lines, tailored fits, and classic pieces – is perfectly lent to a professional setting. From mod suits to knit polos to vintage skirts, here’s how you can bring that iconic ’60s aesthetic to work while remaining polished and office-appropriate.
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The Mod Suit: Classic and Sharp
There is no Mod wardrobe that doesn’t feature a suit, well-tailored, of course. Just perfect for the office, this hallmark of Mod style frames sharp lines and clean cuts, which are actually the defining things of professional attire. Slim-fit suits in navy, grey, or black keep things office-appropriate.
- Single-Breasted Blazers: Single-breasted slim-fit blazers are essential in Mod fashion. The narrow-lapelled one will work great if worn with matching trousers for a keen look. Neutral or darker shades should, however, be your choice to wear to the office; avoid too bold prints or colours since they would not quite fit into an office environment.
- Slim Trousers: Mod trousers are slim cut and look clean. Wear cropped trousers just above the ankle for a nice streamline when you wear them with some glossy shoes. It’s not too tight to keep it business-friendly, but your trousers should sit comfortably on your waist.
Complement your mod suit with a white starched shirt and a simple tie for the office. The effect is essentially timeless, and the look is never out of place in any office environment. Tying it all together, quite literally, is a slim black or brown leather belt.
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Harrington Jackets for a Casual Office Day
On those days when you’re dressing business casual, a good Harrington jacket is just what you need. Popularised in the 60s, the Harrington is light, sleek, and lends a touch of vintage flair to your office attire. In neutral tones-beige, navy, or black-it’s versatile enough for most occasions.
- Polo Shirts: A simple polo shirt underneath in neutral tones works wonders-navy, black, or grey. Another staple the Mods loved, knit polos boast sleek, fitted designs that look effortlessly stylish yet still professional.
- Chinos: The Harrington can be combined with slim-fit chinos for sleekness. There is a no-brainer behind pulling together a Mod look with chinos: having them fitted well and slightly cropped for a clean, modern finish.
The shoes that go well with such style can be polished loafers or even desert boots; it makes for a perfect outfit while keeping it refined for office wear. This will make for a great Friday look or, alternatively, is perfect for office spaces that are more casual. You could also wear a Harrington jacket with chinos and a polo.
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Vintage Knitwear: Sharp Yet Comfortable
The best way to achieve Mod style is to incorporate vintage knitwear into your professional attire. Some of the more classic Mod knitwear would include slim-fitting cardigans and crewneck jumpers, which are available in either muted or geometric patterns.
- Fine-Gauge Knits: If you want a sophisticated office look, go for fine-gauge knit in a block colour. Place it on top of a crisp, collared shirt- the kind where the collar would be peeking out for a neat, layering effect. Go with neutrals or jewel tones like burgundy, forest green, or navy to keep the outfit professional.
- Crew-neck Jumpers: These are another fundamental Mod piece that can deliver a smart-casual look to office wear when put underneath a blazer. Go for fitted cuts that cling to the body without being too binding, so the overall look of the ensemble stays high and polished.
Paired with slim trousers or some well-tailored chinos, this look dramatically captures retro charm while remaining office-appropriate in style.
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Mod Footwear: Polished and Professional
Mod fashion encompasses everything from shoes to clothes. Incorporating some of those Mod shoes into your office attire is pretty easy since they are sleek and polished, really timeless.
- Chelsea Boots: Perhaps the most iconic Mod footwear, Chelsea boots can work rather well in the office. The clean design with smooth leather can work well with formal suits and business casual outfits. Go for black or brown leather to keep it professional.
- Loafers: Loafers are another Mod favourite, perfectly marrying style and comfort. They work with anything from a suit to chinos and really give an air of sophistication to an overall outfit. Go for leather or suede options in neutral shades like black, brown, or tan.
- Desert Boots: In the case of a more casual setting for the office, these are perfect. Desert boots provide an all-time classic Mod look, which is made from suede and offers a much more casual alternative compared to some other options that may be available. Keep them toned down in earthy colours such as beige and brown as well to maintain a versatile yet professional outlook.
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Styling Women’s Vintage Mod Skirts for the Office
Mod style isn’t only for the guys – women’s Mod fashion has a plethora of chic options for office wear, too. One of the most iconic pieces in a Mod wardrobe would probably have to be women’s vintage skirts. Whether you’re drawn to A-line mini skirts or sleek pencil skirts, it’s pretty easy to incorporate these pieces into your workwear.
- A-Line Skirts: A-line skirts were one of the defining features of 60s women’s fashion. For the office, opt for knee-length A-line skirts in block colours or at least in very subtle patterns. These are great and will give you a really Mod look when paired with a fitted blouse or a lightweight turtleneck.
- Pencil Skirts: For those who like their clothes to be more structured, there’s nothing like a Mod-inspired pencil skirt. Find skirts in neutral tones from black and grey to beige, and team with slim-fit blazers or a tucked-in blouse. The key to this look working at the office will lie in the cut – the tailored fitting of the skirt should fall just below the knee for a professional finish.
Then, complete your retro-inspired outfit into office appropriateness with a pair of tights, polished Mary Jane shoes or block heels.
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Accessorising
Accessories in Mod are usually minimal but striking; therefore, they add that finishing touch of polish to your office look.
- Ties and Pocket Squares: For the gentlemen, a slim tie or pocket square is a Mod way to spice up any old suit. Keep them subtle with style by going for simple patterns such as stripes or polka dots.
- Statement Jewellery: For the perfect minimalistic mod look – a pair of sleek hoop earrings or a simple watch will do. If wearing some vintage Mod skirts, add a belt to your waist that will surely add definition and style to the outfit.
- Scarves: Scarves are a fashion accessory that is useful for both men and women. Add an air of sophistication with a silk scarf draped around the neck or tucked under the jacket collar, preferably in a subdued colour or in some geometric print that gives a nod instantly to the 60s style.
Glamourising Retro Elegance at Work
Mod fashion is all about clean lines, sharp tailoring, and a close eye on all those details that make the difference, turning it into perfect inspiration for office wear. Well-tailored suits, iconic outerwear, polished footwear, and vintage accessories will help you create an utterly professional wardrobe filled with the timeless charm of the ’60s Mod style.
Whether you’re into the sharp look of a Mod suit, the effortless cool of a Harrington jacket, or the sleek elegance of a vintage skirt, the way to carry off Mod office fashion is to find just that right balance between retro flair and contemporary professionalism. Nail it with the right pieces and styling, and you’ll be marching into the office with confidence, knowing you’ve merged classic style with modern sophistication.
