Have no idea where to start with the transition from a college to a professional wardrobe? Fear not. These simple guidelines will make this change effortless.
The transition from college to your first professional work environment can be a difficult one. There are many changes taking place in your daily schedule, including nap time and playtime. In addition to the obvious adjustments, there is also the task of transforming into a more mature wardrobe. This can be difficult because it is a completely different way of dressing.
In college, denim was a necessity, and it was all about having comfortable attire to walk to class in. Of course, there was the choice “of going out outfits,” but let’s face it – club wear is not appropriate in a professional environment. In addition to this overwhelming chore, there is the added fact that buying a new wardrobe can get quite expensive.
Follow these simple tips, and this project will be completed with ease and not break the bank.
The Basics
There are some basic garment pieces that are a necessary part of every professional wardrobe. If you purchase these simple pieces, you will have the ability to mix and match current pieces from your wardrobe with them to create many different looks. These garments should also be purchased in basic colors (as listed below) so that they don’t stand out, and you can re-wear certain pieces multiple times throughout the workweek.
It’s up to you how many you want to purchase each. You should always remember to work within your budget and buy a few pieces every month instead of making spontaneous purchases.
These basics include:
- Basic suits (blazer and skirt or pants in black, gray, beige, or brown)
- Basic dress pants (black, gray, beige, or brown )
- Basic dress shirts (white, black, navy)
- Pencil skirts (black, gray, beige, or brown)
- High-heeled pumps (black and beige)
- Nylons (skin tone and opaque black)
Use What You Have
While there are many pieces of your college wardrobe that you wouldn’t want to consider wearing for the office, there are also a lot of options that you have that will be work-appropriate.
Take a long, hard look, even if you have to dig deep, and see what you can find. Many shirts existing in your current wardrobe will work well tucked into a pencil skirt or dress pants, and many pumps will complement work suits.
Use your imagination and put on a fashion show for your friends.
Essential Work Pieces
There are two necessities when it comes to being organized for the office: a fabulous planner and an oversized handbag.
You may choose to just use the planner on your phone, which works great, too, but for those who still like to write everything down, this element is crucial. You don’t need to run out and buy the most expensive planner on the market at Saks Fifth Avenue; Target will do just fine.
Let’s face it–it’s not sexy lugging around multiple bags, briefcases, and then a purse. Therefore, you want something large enough to hold everything that you will need for the office. I suggest something oversized, chic, and very durable. This is an item that you will want to splurge a little on and make sure that the quality will last you through the wear and tear of daily office life.
Accessorize to the Max
Your added accessories are what are going to really make your look unique. Remember, in the professional world, it’s not about dressing to impress from head to toe; it’s about getting your job accomplished. Therefore, add special touches to your overall look so that you don’t feel you are in a boring suit.
Transitioning your wardrobe from college to a professional setting doesn’t have to be daunting or excessively costly. By focusing on acquiring basic, versatile pieces like suits, dress pants, skirts, and essential accessories, you can create a functional yet stylish professional wardrobe. Remember to incorporate existing items from your college days where appropriate, and invest in key pieces like an oversized handbag and a planner to stay organized. Accessorizing strategically can add a personal touch to your professional attire, ensuring you feel confident and prepared for the workplace.
With these guidelines, you can effortlessly navigate the shift to a professional wardrobe, blending efficiency with personal style.
