College isn’t just the time for an education; it’s also the time to make career connections. Whether you have an internship, a job interview or are attending a career expo, you won’t make an impression if you don’t look the part. So what exactly is “business attire”? How can you dress for success and still look stylish? Collegiettes are often faced with these questions, and this article is aimed to help.
Now with different jobs and internships come different standards of attire. For example, if you are affiliated with something in the fashion industry, you are allowed more of a creative outlet with your clothing. This, however, is not always guaranteed. It is best to be safe with your business attire, at least in the beginning of your networking ventures. This requires subtle color/style of clothes, accessories, and makeup…but don’t fret! You can still look stylish while reflecting your professionalism. The key to this is having a variety of essentials that you can mix and match. So push aside the mini skirts and the crop tops, and make room in your closet for these “business attire” basics.
Bottoms:
Khaki Pants
There seems to be somewhat of a “boring” consensus for khakis. However, they can be very stylish and versatile. They are also very useful. I’ve had to run out and buy a pair last minute for an internship event. Many jobs also require them in their uniform. If you aren’t used to wearing khakis, they can feel hard to match. Just remember to stick with neutral colors – black, white, navy, pale pink, and even an olive could work. Nice blouses or button-ups work well, too. Make sure the khakis aren’t too loose or too tight, but formfitting. This would fit the “business casual” category.
Slacks
Slacks are a chic and comfortable way to reflect your business look. Since this article is about the essentials, you should definitely have black slacks in your closet – it’s classy and matches with everything. A gray could work as well. As previously mentioned, make sure your slacks are formfitting. Slacks are more professional than khakis, but can still fit the “business casual” look. They are perfect for speeches, presentations, and other similar events that collegiettes attend.
Pencil Skirt
Pencil skirts are very chic in the business world. Not only do they look professional, but they are also very flattering to your shape. Do not get this confused with the short, high-waisted skirt you wear to the club, though. A “business attire” pencil skirt will start at your waist, but it should not end before your knees. The complete opposite of professional etiquette for women is “too sexy.” So remember to keep it conservative. The same standard goes for slits in your skirt, which should only be in the back. The purpose of a slit is to allow more room for movement. But a slit in the front or the side will generally come off as “too sexy” in a corporate environment. The essential color, of course, would be black. But you should definitely have a variety of colors if your wallet allows it. A very subtle pinstripe pattern is great if you want to stray from solids. You can also add a skinny belt around the waist for a flare of style.
This is the proper length for a pencil skirt. This woman also has a matching blazer, turning the outfit into a chic business suit. Notice how she has minimal jewelry and a matching purse.
Tops:
Button-up
As you continue on in your business endeavors, you will find different blouses that are acceptable in your field. The main essential, though, is a nice button-up. You can never make a bad first impression with one. It looks great with khakis, slacks or tucked into a pencil skirt. The essential color would be white; it matches with any color bottoms. It is a definite recommendation to have multiple whites, and a few additional (neutral) colors if possible. A big “To Don’t” with a button-up is having it too tight, where your chest area leaves a hole in between the buttons.
Camisole(s)
Camisoles are a must-have for professional attire. They are to be worn under other tops, not by themselves. This item is definitely one you should have a variety of! Black is an essential, but other colors are useful, too. Simply adding a colorful, but not too loud, camisole under your blouse or dress can give the perfect pop of style to a neutral outfit. There are also camisoles with lace tops. Just make sure they aren’t too low-cut.
Blazer
Blazers immediately give you that “polished” look. They can be worn with any of the bottoms mentioned previously. If you buy one that matches your slacks or pencil skirt, your outfit is instantly transformed into a business suit. Black is the essential color. But once you have black, add in a navy blue, gray, or even white. Try to avoid oversized shoulder pads, and make sure it is fitted to your shape.
Accessories:
Shoes
Black pumps are the must-have shoes of business attire. They are simple, classy and match with everything. They should look well-polished and unscuffed. Avoid platforms and peep-toes at all costs. Wedges, if the same rules are applied, can also work, and even be more acceptable for the “business casual” look. If you are attending an event that requires a considerable amount of walking/standing, or if you are just bad at walking in heels, ballet flats are also acceptable.
Jewelry
A prominent rule in business attire is no costume jewelry! Professional outfits are supposed to look organized and polished. While costume jewelry is cute with casual wear, it will clash with the professionalism you are trying to convey. Nevertheless, you can still add your own personal style with modest jewelry. Wear simple silver and gold necklaces with your favorite charm. Elegant watches, bracelets, and earrings are a nice touch, just make sure that your earrings dangle one inch or below from your ear. Wearing more than one ring on a hand is generally seen as overkill. If your jewelry makes any noise when you move, it is not appropriate. Just like your clothes, you want your accessories to say, “I am serious about my career.”
Purses
Small, simple and elegant purses are preferred for business attire. For example, if you are attending a career expo on campus, you don’t want a large purse to reduce your outfit while walking around and meeting people. You also want to make sure the color doesn’t clash. A small black shoulder purse is very versatile. Different colors will work as long as they coordinate with your outfit.
Store recommendations with reasonable prices are: H&M, Marshalls, Target, Macy’s, Express, and The Limited. On some occasions, you can even find these items in perfect condition at Goodwill and thrift stores.
As you emerge into your career world, you will find different ways to experiment with your outfits. But in order to get there, you must make the right impression. These nine items are classy, chic and versatile. Every collegiette, no matter what major, should have these “business attire” basics in her closet.