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On trend: 3 easy ways to update your workwear wardrobe, inspired by the new spring trends

Katie Wright shows you how to get ahead of the curve, with a nod to the SS20 catwalks

Miss Selfridge Camel Check Mensy Blazer, £59, available from Miss Selfridge
Miss Selfridge Camel Check Mensy Blazer, £59, available from Miss Selfridge Miss Selfridge Camel Check Mensy Blazer, £59, available from Miss Selfridge

JANUARY brings with it that 'back-to-school' feeling, so there's no better time to refresh your workwear wardrobe.

We're not talking a major overhaul here. Just a few carefully chosen updates that will get you in gear for the year ahead.

Plus, with the spring collections starting to land in stores, it's also time to dip your toe in next season's trends, with transitional pieces inspired by the SS20 catwalks.

Here are three easy ways to perk up your nine-to-five style for the new year...

1. The boxy blazer: There was a new kind of power dressing evident on the SS20 catwalks, with designers like Proenza Schouler, Chloe and JW Anderson making the case for tailoring that combines strong shoulders with a slouchy silhouette.

Soft hues like ivory and beige were popular, but we also saw flashes of citrus brights – orange is going to be everywhere come spring.

Miss Selfridge Camel Check Mensy Blazer, £59; Ivory Long Sleeve Rib Turtle Neck Top, £16; Faye Blue Mid Wash Straight Leg Jeans, £40; White Shoes (in stores in January), £32

JD Williams Orange Mix & Match Fashion Blazer, £25

2. Lighter leather: After a strong showing for AW19, leather continues to dominate on the designer front, but for spring it's all about lighter and brighter shades.

You may not want to go as far as the lemon-yellow or tangerine jackets seen at Emilia Wickstead or Bottega Veneta, but why not try a buttery soft midi skirt, or add a flash of colour with a cross-body bag?

Sonder Studio Tan PU Midi Skirt (available January), £40, M&Co

White Stuff Emma Leather Crossbody Bag, £49.95

3. Muted knitwear: There was a real 90s feel to many of the SS20 colour palettes too, especially when it came to knitwear, with pale shades and minimalist cuts on show at Helmut Lang and Prada.

While the wintry weather calls for cosy jumpers, swap dark autumnal hues for beige, oatmeal or dove grey, adding lightness to your office attire.

Oliver Bonas Button Back Jumper Dress, £59.50; Emilia Studded Camera Crossbody Bag, £42 (available January; boots stylist's own)

Dorothy Perkins Lola Skye Blush Crop Jumper, £25