The workwear staples the FQ team actually can’t live without

4 March 2026
By Sophie de Renzy

From go-anywhere work bags, to elevated yet functional workwear, these are the essentials that keep a fashion editor running.

Image: Launchmetrics/Spotlight.

The secret to a seamless workday often lies in the little essentials that get you through the day. From elevated desk-to-meeting outfits and dependable work bags, to the perfect notebook and reusable bottle, these are the pieces that quietly keep the day running smoothly. To give a real glimpse into our daily routines, we asked the FQ team to share the pieces they can’t go a workday without. And it turns out, it’s not just about what we wear – our office ‘uniforms’ run the full spectrum. 

The notebook

“My Moleskin soft cover diary. Despite everything living online, I still love the ritual of putting pen to paper. There’s something grounding about slowing the mind enough to scribble notes by hand – rather than thrashing them out on a keyboard at a million miles an hour.” – Sarah Murray, editor in chief
Moleskine, 2026 Daily Diary Soft Cover Large, $17.
Father Rabbit, 2026 Daily Diary in Olive Deco, $29.50.
Smythson, Panama Soho Notebook in Navy, $429 from FABRIC.

The watch

“Mother coffee and my Cartier Panthere watch. The coffee sets the pace for the day, and the watch keeps me anchored to it. I prefer glancing at my wrist over my phone – fewer distractions, more focus.” – Georgia Bramley, creative director

Cartier Panthere Watch, POA.
Cendre Phoebe watch, $249, from Superette.
Cartier Baignoire Watch, POA.

The office uniform 

My work wardrobe is built around a few key pieces that make getting dressed in the morning as effortless as possible. My priorities? Timeless items that feel elevated enough to look polished, while still delivering on comfort and longevity – I prefer clothes that work for me, not the other way around.” Natalia Didovich, digital producer

Harris Tapper, Tilmens Blazer in Bone, $799.
AS Colour, Organic Rib Baby Tee, $42.
Kowtow, Franz Pant in Black, $289.

The work bag

My Wynn Hamlyn woven bag earned its promotion to office status straight after summer where it had been working overtime carrying beach towels and sunscreen. Now, it fits my laptop, notebook, and daily essentials just as easily. I like pieces that can shift with the season and the setting. Chic and practical is the brief.” – Sophie de Renzy, multimedia content co-ordinator 

Wynn Hamlyn, Woven Beaded Bag in Black/White, $250.
Assembly Label Olivia Suede Tote Bag, $300.
Rylan, 7.44 Black Soft Grained Large Tote, $980.

The drink bottle 

“My workplace must-have is my Frank Green water bottle – it’s almost like an emotional support bottle and I feel like a part of me is missing if I forget it! It sits in my direct eye-line on my desk, so it’s a great reminder to stay hydrated throughout the day.” – Tiffany Low, commercial director

Frank Green, Ceramic Reusable Bottle in Midnight, $70.
Hydroflask, 24oz (709mL) Wide Mouth Flex Straw Travel Bottle, $90.
Mode & Opal, Insulated Drink Bottle in Soft Cream, $69.

The hand balm 

My workplace essential is Aesop’s Hand Balm, as well as their room spray. The scent makes both me and the office smell divine, and instantly invigorates the working environment.” – Bridget Hewitt, brand & strategy director

Aesop, Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm, $155.
Kit, Urban Hand Salve 30ml, $24 from Mecca.
Ashley & Co, Better Balm Restorative Skin Balm, $30.

The beauty product 

“My non-negotiable is the Dior Lip Glow Balm – I genuinely feel unfinished without it. It’s my go-to whenever I need a subtle reset throughout the day. And, of course, a piece of Tony’s Chocolonely for that essential mid-afternoon lift – a small indulgence that feels restorative but a little bit cheeky.” – Vanessa Bathfield, commercial editor

Dior, Addict Lip Glow Balm, $74 from Farmers.
La Bonne, Brosse N.01 The Universal Petite Brush 120, $215 from Mecca.
Rhode, Pocket Blush, $49 from Mecca.

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