After a spring filled with tulle and flowers, we’re back to bold basics. Power and sophistication take center stage in Tokyo’s summer, with corporate core leading the way. Office attire goes beyond the classic blazer and trousers––we’re diving headfirst into brands such as Shushu/Tong, Markgong, Sandy Liang and Sacai who are forging a legacy in “corpcore” with elements like bows and lace. 

Sharp Collars  

Max Mara raises the collar to accentuate its height. Whether worn alone or nestled in a trench coat, the button-up peeks out from the layers. Debuted on the Spring/Summer 2024 runway, Sacai airy interpretation of button-ups and oversized collars easily transitions into summer. We also can’t miss Saint Laurent sharp collar, which dominates the Spring/Summer runway, highlighting the elegance and boldness of the collared look and its completion to the style. 

Sheer Skirts 

Shushu/Tong and Markgong trailblaze the office core aesthetic with asymmetric leather and sheer skirts, infusing a fresh twist into the traditional uniform. Drawing inspiration from the empowered woman, they reimagine the classic pencil skirt with changes in fabric and silhouette, allowing for individual expression and character in professional attire. 

Shushu/Tong and Markgong trailblaze the office core aesthetic with asymmetric leather and sheer skirts, infusing a fresh twist into the traditional uniform. Drawing inspiration from the empowered woman, they reimagine the classic pencil skirt with changes in fabric and silhouette, allowing for individual expression and character in professional attire. 

Kitten Heels  

With pointed toes and delicate details, the kitten heel emerges as 2024’s summer staple. Options like last year’s Miu Miu’s buckle-embellished sling pumps or Charles and Keith’s mesh kitten-heel pumps offer versatility for both office and casual wear. A practical trend in cities like Tokyo where walking is common, the low heel never dares to sacrifice style. Consider pairing these shoes with high mesh socks or ribbed crew socks for your own twist on corpcore. 

Satin and Bows  

What corporate core outfit is complete without a touch of texture and accessories? Sandy Liang takes the lead on the Spring/Summer runway with satin bows and sheer skirts, adding a dreamlike reminiscence of girlhood. Office wear in 2024 can extend beyond the strictly monotonous and sophisticated. The delicate elements of this newly reimagined corporate core, welcomed by the high fashion world, bring out the softer sides of femininity portrayed on these daring runways.

Quiet Luxury 

Sacai elevates elegance and femininity to new heights, with pristine whites, tans and grays gracing the runway, mirroring the staple colors of Japanese street fashion. Jacquemus explores textures within a single color palette for each style, accentuating the silhouette. Saint Laurent similarly embraces quiet luxury with its monochrome scheme, integrating collared looks and kitten heels into one style. 

That Summer Dress  

Whether adorned with dainty florals or doused in a single color, the one-piece rarely disappoints in achieving an effortless look. Issey Miyake’s monochrome one-piece exemplifies a storm in a dress with gently ruched fabric that cinches the waistline, exuding elegance. 

See our last article on Tokyo fashion: Tokyo Trends: Spring Fashion 2024