How To: Build Your Work Wardrobe (Female Edition)

The transition from college to the real world naturally includes many changes. A new job, new location, new living quarters (depending on whether you bunk with Mom or Dad), new income, new worries, new responsibilities… just to name a few. A change that sometimes gets left behind at college is your wardrobe. Now we are all guilty of buying those cute-gotta-have-it-for-tonight party dresses… but they don’t exactly double for suitable work attire. It’s important to start fresh when you head into the working world, or at least pick out a few staples from your college career to transition with you.

You don’t need a lot to start building your new work wardrobe. Just some classic pieces that you will be able to mix and match and grow with as you continue to make purchases along the way (and as your salary hopefully grows).

While you may spend more money on these items, look at it as an investment. You will get your money’s worth if you wear them correctly and utilize these pieces daily. And remember: these classics will never go out of style.

The first must have working wardrobe piece is a classic black suit jacket… and depending on your job, a matching skirt or pant to go with it. J.Crew has the perfect suiting that is tailored, comfortable, tried, and true. I invested in this handsome Super 120s nouvelle jacket and never looked back.

Image via jcrew.com

Now $230.00

A working wardrobe should also include a classic tailored dress. Whether solid or print, a tailored work dress goes great with a blazer, cardigan, or alone. Remember to keep the hem right around your knees and the neckline conservative. No plunging v-necks or scandalous hem lines. You can save those for weekends and happy hour. Here’s an adorable classic Stretch Cotton Shirred Shirtdress from Ann Taylor

Image via anntaylor.com

Now $148.00

Any top can look more professional when paired with a great pencil skirt. Choose a neutral color like black, gray, or tan to start with and then add skirts with more vibrant colors and patterns after you have established your basics. A pencil skirt can taper a blouse or feminize a button-down. Add flair and flourish with brightly colored belts. Banana Republic’s lightweight wool charcoal pencil skirt is a perfect fit, a piece I personally swear by.

Image via bananarepublic.gap.com

Now $79.50

Now while not a necessity, a nice watch to accessorize your working wardrobe with is an added bonus. I bought myself a Michael Kors watch as a “congratulations for landing a job gift.”  And I wear it every day. I also like this MICHAEL KORS Square Watch, Luggage.

Image via michaelkors.com

Now $160.00

Now add a cardigan or blouse to your basic pieces (think fun prints and bold colors) and some accessories (long strands of pearls, wrap bracelets, flowing scarfs) and you’re ready to go!