You college wardrobe is more important than you think. While going to class in shorts and a t-shirt is perfectly acceptable, you really do need more than oversized shirts and leggings in your wardrobe. College is a time of interviews, of putting yourself out there, and making a good impression.
You need a wardrobe that will allow you to do exactly that. You don't need to break the bank buying countless formal pieces, but you do need a handful of professional-looking pieces that you can mix and match. All of these pieces can also be dressed up or down and therefore are highly versatile.
1. Black ballet flats
Hopefully, you already own a pair of ballet flats. I know when I came to college I bought three pairs with me, a standard black pair and two pairs in fun colors. I have always enjoyed how ballet flats look; they instantly elevate an outfit but are still comfortable -- if you buy a decent pair. They also can last years, which is great if you are on a budget.
2. Little black heels
Shoes do make a difference in an interview. The last thing you want is to show up to an interview looking fierce in a suit with sandals or, heaven forbid, tennis shoes on. While there is no rule stating that you need to wear heels in a business setting, having a pair of black heels is never a bad thing. Splurge a little here and buy a pair that is really comfortable, trust me your feet will thank you.
3. A set of pearls.
4. Good quality pantsuit
Having a suit is important, while you probably won't be wearing it all that often in college it is really nice to have a super professional option. You don't have to buy a super expensive suit, or even feel confined to a single style or color.
I have a lot of grey pieces in my closet, so instead of a traditional black suit, I also made sure to get a gray suit. The nice thing about buying a suit in college is that you are probably almost finished growing, and the suit can last you years.
5. Long professional skirt
A woman used to feel confined to skirts or dresses in the business realm, but now you see women rocking pantsuits in all settings. That doesn't mean that you can't rock a skirt suit though. I think having a longer skirt that looks professional and fits well adds options. You can mix and match suit coats, pants, and skirts to come up with a variety of looks suited for your different events and moods.
6. A patterned pair of pants
It took me a while to get with this trend, but I am so glad that I did. Old Navy sells mid-rise pixie pants in a ton of different colors and patterns. They all look professional enough on their own, but you can easily dress them up. Whether you want white spotted pants (my personal favorite) or a unique solid color, you can't go wrong with a pair. Plus they are ridiculously comfortable.
7. Tank tops and blouses that you can dress up or down
I am someone who gets warm really easily, so wearing a long sleeve shirt under a suit coat is not always a comfortable option for me. Instead, I tend to go for bright tank tops that both add a pop of color and make me feel confident. Color has always made me feel more like myself. I like fitted tank tops with modest necklines for business settings but you could even find a couple tank tops with lace detail along the edges to bring the look together.
8. A suitcoat in a fun color
Business looks don't have to be boring. Even at an important interview, you want to feel like yourself, so buy a suit coat in a color that makes you feel vibrant and fun. Wear it with black pants and a simple shirt and you still look professional, while also looking fun.
9. A basic white buttondown
A white button-down is the most versatile piece you can own. Wear it with a pair of jeans and a scarf for a business casual look. Roll the sleeves up. Wear it with a pantsuit for a power look. Wear it in summer or in winter. It simply doesn't go out of style and you can find one in just about every store.
