The workwear edit

Your boardroom fits don’t have to be boring.

By: Shelby Hickman

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Credit: Pinterest

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Goodbye college, hello corporate. 

The days of rolling out of bed, throwing on the first pair of crumpled sweats I see on the floor and hauling ass out the door with unbrushed hair, hoping I make it to class on time, will soon be gone. While this routine may seem dramatic, we’ve all lived it. 

In the real world, bosses aren’t going to appreciate my XXL “I ❤️ Irish Boys” shirt with Niall Horan’s face on it the way my fellow classmates and Directioners might. 

As I prepare to journey out into the world, I decided it was time to revamp my wardrobe and ensure I can dress for success no matter the environment. And I thought I should take you guys with me! 

Without further ado, I present: A twentysomething's guide to dressing like you mean business (even if you’re scared shitless).

Finding your Personal Style 

Step 1: Do a color analysis

Doing a color analysis can help you figure out what hues look best with your features by assessing your skin undertones, hair color and eye color. Of course, these aren’t the only colors you can wear, but they serve as a starting point as you scour the racks.

I’m considered warm-toned, so I usually gravitate toward red, orange and gold pieces. Check out this helpful guide from InStyle to find out if you’re warm, cool or neutral-toned. 

Step 2: Take inventory of your closet and your environment

Before you start seeking out new pieces, consider what you already have and the climate you live in. For example, you likely won’t need a wool sweater for the office if you live in Miami.

Already have three white tops with different necklines? You probably don’t need another. However, if you like the boatneck style of one, perhaps consider purchasing it in another color. 

Step 3: Make a list of your nos

It’s often more important to figure out what you don’t like. You’ll likely never catch me in velvet or a square neckline; I know this neckline isn't flattering on me and the texture of velvet makes me want to crawl out of my skin. 

Listing what doesn’t work can help narrow your clothing searches. Websites like Zara and H&M have thousands of pieces that can be overwhelming, so save yourself the stress and filter out what’s not for you! 

Step 4: Decide what you need and set a budget 

This step is by far the hardest. As a certified shopaholic, I like to tell myself I need everything. But as a broke college student, my bank account says otherwise. Decide on a few staple pieces and set a budget for them.

I recommend investing in the basics — a nice neutral blazer and reliable heels or loafers. Investing in high-quality versions of these items ensures you won't need to repurchase them as often, since they may be costly.

Step 5: Make a mood board  

This is the fun part! I love using Pinterest for this because it’s easy to use and the site also provides recommendations based on what you save. Sometimes there are shoppable links to individual pieces, making it even easier to build your dream wardrobe. 

Start with a color scheme, then save anything and everything that you feel fits your style and job. If you need a little bit of inspo, check out mine!

Knowing your workplace 

An important thing to keep in mind is the general vibe of your workplace. Certain industries and organizations have their own specific rules, so consider checking a company handbook. Then ask yourself: What job am I doing? What does everyone around me wear? This will certainly impact the pieces you buy. 

For example, an account executive at Goldman Sachs is going to dress much differently than a social media coordinator for a professional sports team. Regardless of the environment, it's important to dress appropriately. You may feel a little out of place wearing a pantsuit in a “jeans office,” but in most cases, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed. Overdress for the interview and the first week on the job, then adapt based on what others wear.

Also keep in mind that some organizations are stricter than others. A pair of shoes that is accepted in one office may be “too casual” in another. Similarly, a pair of fun earrings may earn you a compliment in certain workplaces, but be considered “too distracting” in another. 

Closet Staples

• A neutral blazer

• Black slacks

• Loafers

• Closed-toed heels

• Loose button down

• Cardigan 

• Pencil/midi skirt

• A structured tote bag in a neutral color

• A watch, either a metal watch or Apple Watch with a classy band 

• Minimalist jewelry 

Where to shop: least to most expensive

Price Range: $5-$100

• Target

  • A New Day: $5 - $60

  • Universal Threads: $8 - $65

• Old Navy: $10 - $85 (most items are usually on sale)

• H&M: $20 - $75

• Loft: $15- $100 (most items are usually on sale)

Price Range: $15-$200

• J. Crew Factory: $15- $160 (most items are usually on sale)

• Express: $20 - $150

• ASOS: $15 - $365

• Banana Republic Factory: $30 - $180

• Abercrombie and Fitch: $40 - $180

  
  

• Zara: $45 - $180

Price Range: $20-$500

• White House Black Market: $45 - $210

• Aritzia: $30 - $300

  
  

• Quince: $20 - $500

• Anthropologie: $35 - $300

Price Range: $35-$700+

• Revolve: $35 - $600

• Reformation: $60 - $650

• Dillards: $50 - $750

Accessories, accessories, accessories

When it comes to spicing up your workwear, accessories are your best friend — as long as they’re within reason. If your workplace allows it, a statement necklace, fun belt or bag scarf can take any fit to the next level. 

Accessories are where your personal style can really shine through. Anyone can wear a white body suit and black slacks, but not everyone can jazz it up with a thrifted vintage belt, a colorful cardigan and a cute watch. Don’t be afraid to be bold with your looks (again, within reason, because nobody wants to visit HR).

The Shelby Edit: A few of my personal favorites and items on my wishlist 

• Marc Jacobs: The Jacquard Large Tote Bag

• Abercrombie and Fitch: Sloane Tailored Wide Leg Pant

• Sam Edelman: Loraine Bit Loafer

• Reformation: Taryn Two Piece Set

• Mejuri: Tube Medium Hoops

• Quince: Mongolian Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Sweater

• Banana Republic Factory: Sculpted Stretch Blazer

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Shelby Hickman is a fourth-year sports and media journalism student with a minor in public relations. She loves romcoms, Philly sports and her corgi, Cheddar, amongst other things. She is terrified of being a real adult, but excited to have an excuse to buy a new blazer.