9 Wardrobe Essentials

 

If you’re a college student getting ready to graduate and embark on the interview phase of your post-graduate career, or already working as a young professional, focusing on these 9  essentials can help maximize your wardrobe and elevate it from an interview to the office to nighttime or weekend wear!

1. Plain Tee: Probably the most basic element of a wardrobe and definitely the most underrated. A plain tee is the easiest item to dress up or down and it’s comfortable! Wear with jeans for a casual day with friends or pair with a pencil skirt and a statement necklace for the office. Start with neutral colors like white, black and grey. They are the most transformable.

2. Dark and Light Wash Jeans: The popularity of jeans is at an all-time high therefore making it incredibly easy to find a pair that you love. Jeans are one of the most casual items in a closet but in a dark, clean wash they are certainly appropriate for Casual Friday. Make sure to try on lots of different stylse so you can find the cut that you feel most comfortable in and flatters your body the best.

3. Crewneck Sweater: While it might sound (and look) preppy to some, a crewneck sweater is incredibly cozy and understated. Solid neutral colors give you the ability to pair it with a patterned button down shirt or pants. Muted colors like purple, blue, or pink go great with neutral elements like a pair of dark denim jeans or a simple pencil skirt. Play around with statement jewelry to let your personality show through.

4. Blazer: A blazer is one of those pieces of clothing that could be argued as “not basic”. But it really is an essential building block for a more professional wardrobe. A simple color like black or navy virtually goes with anything. Worn with more fitted and office appropriate items it gives off the vibe of a power suit (without actually being one). Pairing it with boyfriend jeans and tee can elevate a more casual outfit. Look for details that emulate your personality e.g. buttons, silk or leather trim, or a fun interior pattern.

5. Cardigan: Like a crewneck sweater, a cardigan in a neutral color can bring an entire outfit together. If the air conditioning is blasting in the summer, you have a sweater that is easy to take on and off. In the winter, it is a layering element to keep you warm in transit. Want to try something different? Consider wearing your cardigan buttoned up all the way as a shirt. Or, wear it with the buttons in the back for a night out.

6. Dress pants or trousers: These don’t have to be the classic trouser, i.e. slightly flared or straight leg. A way to bring a little bit of youth into such a professional piece of clothing is to look for a slimmer, slightly cropped style. The slimmer fit gives a more modern touch while the cropped length transitions well from work-week to weekend-wear. Again, neutral colors allow for the most variation in outfit possibilities.

7. Pencil Skirt: Another effortlessly timeless item, the pencil skirt is my new favorite outfit building block. It is sexy and sophisticated while still suitable for a more corporate environment. Look for a longer length, hitting around the knee. Nervous the pencil skirt can quickly look frumpy and dated? Look for edgier details or a skirt in an unconventional material like leather, suede, or a textured/woven fabric.

8. Classic White Shirt: Don’t mistake this for a plain t-shirt. A classic white shirt could be a simple, crisp button down or a silky more dressy tee. The end goal is to have a selection of casual and dressy tops while keeping them all simple.

9. Little Black Dress: The timeless and classic LBD is probably the single most important item in a woman’s wardrobe. Dresses in general are the easiest outfits and can be transformed from day to night with very simple changes. Your LBD should be in a fit you feel comfortable and confident in, and should be appropriate for where you plan to wear it. A shift or wrap style dress goes perfectly with an office setting, while a strappy, body-con, or fitted midi style make the perfect “Girl’s Night Out” attire.

You might find that you don’t need or want every item on this list, and that is totally fine! If you want to add more color to your wardrobe with a bright printed dress, do it! Make sure you are staying true to your personality!

If you have any questions or comments, I would love you hear from you!

Image Credit: “Rubbermaid Homefree Series Closet Kit 3H11” by Rubbermaid Products is licensed under CC BY 2.0.