You’ve aced the interview and landed your dream job, which is definitely worth a round of applause! Now that you’re on the right career path, you’ll want to look the part – which means it’s time for a new, professional work wardrobe. Though many might not consider what you wear as a high priority, first impressions are everything. Your clothing gives a first impression to your new coworkers and other high-level employees, like managers and CEOs. What you wear on your first day of work is just as important as what you wear on the job every day, so you’ll want to have a wardrobe that shows your professional side, as well as your unique sense of style. Below are just a few tips for building your wardrobe as a working woman.
Versatility is Key
You’ll likely wear your work attire just as often – if not more often – than your loungewear or house clothes. With that in mind, you’ll want to have a wide variety of pieces in your work wardrobe. The best way to create different outfits is to choose blouses, shirts and pants that you can easily mix and match. Opt for neutral colors such as white, black and gray, and select pieces that you can easily dress up or dress down depending on different work events. A plain white shirt pairs just as perfectly with a pair of black slacks as it does with a fun skirt. A few neutral-colored tops and bottoms can help you create a wide variation of outfit combinations. When you choose versatile clothing pieces for work, they can easily double as outfits for the weekend, too.
Invest in Staple Pieces
In addition to a selection of versatile work tops and bottoms, it’s also a good idea to invest in a few clothing items that every working woman needs. These timeless pieces might include a sleek pencil skirt, a black blazer or even a sophisticated trench coat for those chilly mornings on your way into the office. You don’t have to break your budget just on these select items, though. Shopping secondhand is a great way to get the look you’re going for without splurging. Online secondhand stores like thredUP make it even easier to shop for the designer brands you love while landing the deals on the staple clothing items you need for work. Just like with the neutral-colored tops and bottoms, these select few staple pieces can mix and match to help you create even more outfits, so that you can make the most of your work wardrobe.
Opt for Comfortable Footwear
While on the job, you’re likely going to spend a lot of time on your feet – whether you’re walking to the office, climbing up or descending down the stairs, or maneuvering around your workspace. Comfortable footwear is another item you should always have in your work wardrobe. A stylish pair of flats help keep your outfits professional while keeping your feet comfortable. If your office is more of a business-professional environment, pumps or high-heels might be your standard footwear – even though they might hurt your feet. Ensure that your feet are comfortable even when you’re dressed to impress by slipping gel insoles in your shoes. That way, you can wear the shoes that highlight your professionalism while keeping the pressure off of your feet!
Choose Comfortable Clothing, Period!
No one likes to feel uncomfortable in the clothes they’re wearing, especially throughout a workday. Don’t waste your time – or money – on clothes that simply make you feel uncomfortable. A shirt that doesn’t fit right or a skirt that is just too tight can not only leave you feeling uncomfortable, but can directly affect your confidence. It’s true that what your wear can impact how you feel, so it’s important to dress in clothes that help you feel comfortable and confident. Dressing to impress while also wearing clothes that are comfortable can also increase your productivity and keep you focused on your tasks at hand. Forget worrying about how you look or being distracted by an uncomfortable pair of pants when you’re on the job.
Additionally, it’s important to choose work clothes that are quality, long-lasting pieces. Don’t waste your money on blouses that are prone to stains or bottoms that will shrink after one cycle in the washing machine. Opt for items that you see yourself wearing multiple times and are made of quality materials for long-lasting wear.
Select Your Stand-Out Essentials
Everyone likes to have a little fun with their wardrobe now and then. Just because you’re looking for a new work wardrobe doesn’t mean you should sacrifice your own sense of style. When you truly want to stand out and let your sense of style shine, opt for pieces that can easily be paired with more simple and versatile items in your closet. For instance, if you’re really into vibrant colors, choose a bright blue skirt that can be worn with a variety of different tops, like a white V-neck shirt or a gray button-down blouse. If you love bold patterns and intricate designs, opt for a striped or floral top that you can wear with different more neutral pants and skirts.
Don’t Forget to Accessorize
On top of choosing a select few pieces that help you stand out, accessories are another way that you can spice up any work outfit. After choosing a variety of versatile and budget-friendly tops and bottoms, accessorize with earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. A fun layered necklace can add a touch of glam to a simple white button-down shirt and black pants combo. A watch is another accessory that makes any outfit just that much more professional looking. A fun, flattering accessory can make all the difference when it comes to your work look.
Some might not consider work attire a priority, but when starting a new job, what you wear can play a role in first impressions and how you feel throughout each and every workday. That’s why it’s important to take the time to develop your professional wardrobe and opt for items that are comfortable, practical, and help you feel your very best!
