It’s the sixth day of your first real job, and you’re already out of things to wear. For the last five days, you looked polished and stylish. You wore favorite clothes, and you felt confident. But now, you’re staring at your clothes, and it’s mostly your college go-to’s: leggings, hoodies and crop tops – definitely not office-appropriate.
It’s time to build your big kid wardrobe, that not only looks professional, but also showcases your style and personality. It’s a daunting task. But having these three must-have items at your disposal is a great place to start.
1. The Power Blazer
This one pretty much goes without saying. A classic blazer is the perfect thing to make any outfit a little more professional. You certainly don’t have to wear a blazer to work every day, but on those days when you have to make a good impression or give a presentation, a blazer can be just the thing to make you feel powerful. And blazers don’t have to be stuffy or boxy: there are plenty of varieties in color and fit, so you can find the perfect one for your style.
2. The Black Pants That Fit Like a Glove
A perfect pair of black pants is a must-have item. They’ll match anything, and provide you with a sleek base, so you can let the rest of your outfit pop. Hunt through the mall, try on some pairs and invest in finding pants with a perfect fit. You’ll be glad you did when you can be both comfy and fierce on long work days or tiring business trips.
3. The Shoe Collection
When it comes to shoes, more is more. It’s great to have options to mix and match, depending on the outfit and occasion. If you can get through a whole work day in your cutest pumps, hats off to you. Not all of us have that kind of calf strength, but they can still be great to have for dinners or events. If you have a job where you’re on your feet all day, maybe flats or boots are a safer way to go, and these options can still be fabulous! With a more serious outfit, a fun pair of shoes can be a great place for a pop of color. You don’t have to get blisters on your feet.
And for our male readers…
We didn’t forget about you. We can all struggle to build a professional wardrobe, and we wouldn’t want to leave you hanging. The good news is that menswear lends itself to mixing and matching. So be a smart shopper. Find a variety of jackets, button-ups, ties, khakis and dress pants that can all be put together for different outfits. And most importantly, men: fit matters! While a lot of the guys out there may dread shopping, it’s important not to rush out or skip the fitting room. Finding good colors and patterns matters, but having clothes with a tailored fit is what will take you to the professional level.