The Question:
Hi Belinda,
I graduated from college this summer and after months of hunting I have finally landed my first real job. I’ve been hired by a small marketing firm as a marketing assistant and, although it’s a relatively casual working environment, I want to make a good impression with the appropriate attire. I’ve always been used to wearing jeans and flip flops, but I want to start building up my wardrobe for my professional career. What should I be looking for when I’m out shopping for work clothes?
Thank you,
Evelyn
Walnut Creek, CA
Belinda Says…
Dear Evelyn,
Congratulations on the new job! You obviously already made a great impression on your new employer and thanks to that, you now have a fun and exciting new career! It only take a little effort to make a good impression, appearance-wise. To help you with that, I have made a list of 10 must-have wardrobe essentials for any professional woman. These are the staples and foundations of your wardrobe which can be mixed and matched with each other, as well as combined with fresh new pieces season after season.
1. The Little Black Dress – A classic since day one, the versatile LBD allows you to wear it from office to after-work cocktails with minimal effort. A simple, knee-length sheath is your best friend; just accessorize with a cardigan, some fun heels and jewelry to match.
2. Black Pants – You’re going to notice that many of the pieces I list are all black. Why? Because black is classic and it goes with everything! Your wardrobe should have at least one pair of good dress pants; trouser or straight leg are timeless and flattering styles.
3. White Button-Down Shirt – A nice, crisp white top goes a long way and can be worn with you black pants, or if you’re feeling causal, with your favorite pair of jeans.
4. Black Blazer – The blazer can take an outfit from casual to dressy in an instant. A nicely fitted blazer that can be worn comfortable with a long sleeved shirt or sleeveless top is ideal. Single button blazers look great whether worn buttoned up or open.
5. Knee-Length Skirt – You can never go wrong with an A-line of pencil skirt. These classic designs are flattering on just about any figure and are easily combined with the other essentials in your wardrobe.
6. Cardigan Sweater – The timeless cardigan will never let you down and can be worn in many ways. Long-sleeve or 3/4 sleeve cardigans are best, especially if they are button-up.
7. Trench Coat – The classic khaki trench coat will never go out of style, so investing in a quality piece will allow you to enjoy and make the most of it for years to come.
8. Black Pumps – Every girl should own a good pair of black pumps, no matter what. They go with just about everything and are the perfect compliment to all of these wardrobe essentials. Be sure to find a pair that fits perfectly and is truly comfortable.
9. Pearl Necklace – A classic outfit is not complete without a nice strand of pearls! Real pearls may be out of your budget, but a long strand of glass pearls is easy to find and can be worn simply, or doubled – even tripled – for a layered look.
10. The Perfect Pair of Jeans – Dressing up for work can also be casual. A good pair of jeans can have you looking the part when worn with a nice blazer and pumps. Dark denim in straight leg or boot cut is the best, as these styles are classic and flattering on all.
The list may seem like a lot, but you don’t have to buy it all at once – little by little, you can build your basic wardrobe. Neutrals (white, black, gray, khaki, etc.) are a versatile wardrobe color scheme and can be freshened up with a few pops of color here and there so that they don’t become too boring. Good luck on the new job and happy stylin’!
All the best,
Belinda
Have a question for Belinda? Send an email to belinda [at] smarter.com with all of your fashion inquiries. I may not be able to answer everyone’s questions, but I will try to get to as many as possible. Be sure to stay tuned for next week’s Ask Belinda Column, the next one may be yours!
About Belinda
