MAJOR KEY ALERT: Interview season is just around the corner, and in between drowning in school work, coordinating those dreaded group project meet-ups, or participating in various club activities – all while trying to maintain some semblance of a social life – there’s simply not enough hours in the day to plan out your #outfitgame. Let’s be real, it’s 2016 and regardless of how souped up your resume is; your outfit could be a serious #gamechanger.
Whether you’re a freshman gunning for a summer internship worthwhile, or a senior trying to find their place in the real world, dressing the part is the #keytosuccess. Over the past couple years; business professional has evolved from the classic power-pantsuit combo to more vivacious options that can work in any field. Taking cues from the runways – bold hues, playful prints, and sharp cuts are reaching new heights in the work wear department. Stay current, read on for tips and tricks on how to incorporate these trends into your looks!
1) The Financial Analyst
Just because numbers can be boring doesn’t mean your look has to be! Let your outfit be your pick-me-up and swap your boy’s club suit for polished separates. Think Wall Street pin-stripes in a cropped tailored or slouchy-chic fit, with a tie blouse and a collarless cape blazer. The pin-striped pants show you’re strictly business while the tie blouse and cape blazer showcase your feminine side.
2) The Publicist
Considering that your hours are usually well past the 9-5 realm, up the ante while schmoozing your clients with bold pieces that can take you from the office to after work dinner and drinks. Since this field is on the creative spectrum – play up your look with a mix of texture and color! Go for a gem tone hued blouse, a sleek black longline blazer and textured bottoms. Jacquard and geometric prints in a cigarette or cropped pant style are sure to turn heads.
3) The Start Up/Tech Gal
Probably the “chillest” of the fields in terms of dress code; ladies, take advantage of this! In this case, your wardrobe is your playground, so why not try something new? Be daring! Go for the culotte pant (aka the one some may refer to as the new gaucho pant), it’s more flattering than you’d imagine it to be and you’ll feel like a rockstar after pulling it off. My favorite way to sport this trend is by mixing a narrow print with an element of quirkyness. For instance, a thin striped print pant paired with an asymetrical T-shirt or high-neck ruffled top in a complementing accent color, and tassled loafers. Metallic oxfords or lace up block heeled shoes are also great to pair with these pants!
4) The Future Lawyer
Being a bo$$ lady is hard work, and with the constant stress of having to solve someone else’s problems – don’t let your outfit become one of them. Pack an extra punch into your look and swap out your pencil skirt for a classic shift or wrap dress. Whether it’s a stand-out hue or a smaller scale print – add your favorite pair of pointy-toed heels and you’re guranteed to look refreshed while still being courtroom appropriate. To finish the look, throw on a top-it-off blazer, and you’re set to nail that case.
5) The Future Doctor/Dentist
Minimalisim is key in the medical field. Go for a fitted blouse and tailored pant combo. Stay keen to picking pieces that are comfortable and practical for your busy day. Whether your practice deals with getting up close and personal with a patient’s chompers, or handiling their varied illnesses you want them to feel a sense of calmness while in your space. Keep most of your look in muted or earthy tones, and save the pop of color for your accent pieces. When deciding on accent pieces – follow the pick two rule: pick two items to sport that complement one another. Some go-to classics are a polished necklace, sophisticated flats, or an eye-catching watch.
7) The Teacher
Think elevated basics that are both wallet and kid friendly when finding pieces for this look. Go for items you can wear again and again in different ways so it constantly feels like you’re revamping without breaking the bank. Add some playfulness to your look with a spunky blouse or pair of statement flats that can be worn from day-to-night. Finish off the look with simple accessories such as layering necklaces and a timeless leather watch for a vintage feel.