In college, I loved being the go-to for fashion questions. It was always so much fun being stylist & trusted fashion "expert" for my friends. I still love to answer your burning fashion questions when they come in my inbox- feel free to send me one anytime.
A friend Sara from high school had some questions regarding business professional style, which is super relevant for everyone interviewing for jobs and internships, or working in a professional atmosphere:
"I am about to graduate law school and enter the professional world and I am really struggling to make the transition to "professional business attire." and would love any tips. I already have very little style and have found that all professional clothes are sooo expensive! Even the slightest tips will help!"
I've compiled some of my favorite looks that can be mixed and matched and still be very professional & will have some tips for finding business-y clothes that are affordable too!
Truth be told, it can be tricky to incorporate your individual style or color into a business professional wardrobe. Do it with small touches- a peachy lipgloss you love, a bold bag you carry into work or on your lunch break, a pair of sassy stud earrings hidden underneath coiffed hair. The best way to know what you can get away with wardrobe-wise is to observe (another important business skill anyhow!)
So now that we've told you what to wear & some basics of business professional. Where can you buy the clothes (& not spend an arm and a leg)?
There are definitely some things you should splurge on for quality & the amount it will be on rotation in your wardrobe; like a great fitting black & gray pant. Or if you're in a very conservative work atmosphere- a flattering suit.Once you know a brand whose fit you like, buy multiple colorways of the style. A great pair of shoes that are comfortable too are essential- especially when running around as a newbie on the job. Save money by picking up blouses on discount and cardigans out of season or on markdown.
Great business-professional & stylish brands (many offer student discounts- be sure to ask!)
J. Crew// Club Monaco // Ann Taylor// LOFT // Talbots // Canvas Lands' End // Anthropologie// Macy's // Nordstrom
Discount retailers to look for stylish office clothes:
I hope this helps decode the Business Professional dress code-- feel free to leave more questions or suggestions in the comments!
xoxo, lauren