Sadly, college will come and go before you know it. Soon you'll be off in the real world with adult responsibilities. Instead of going to the dining hall, you'll have to actually make your food. Instead of picking and choosing your classes, you'll have a set work schedule. Instead of rolling out of bed every morning, putting on sweatpants and walking to class, you'll actually have to care about what you look like so that you're presentable at your job. Simply stated: you'll have to dress professionally.
Many college students have no idea how to dress in a professional manner. For ladies, they think professional attire is a sundress paired with ballet flats or sandals. Men think they can get away with a polo shirt, khakis and slip-on neutral colored shoes most of the time. Sooner than you think, you'll be required to dress like a working professional, proving to your employer that you are a professional 20-something-year-old. Here are pieces of clothing and potential outfits that can do you no wrong in the professional world.
For women:
1. Dress slacks
For ladies, dress slacks are your best friend. If you're not a fan of them, learn to love them. Dress slacks are the bread and butter of a working professional. Black, gray and a deep navy are the best colors to wear because, not only are they business colors, but they match almost everything. If you're a person who likes color, feel free to have a couple pairs of colorful slacks, but don't go too crazy. Having too much color can be unprofessional.
2. Dresses and skirts
If you decide to wear a dress or skirt, it's important to make sure that it's an appropriate length. Professional attire when it comes to dresses and skirts means that they should both be knee length. If you choose a dress, keep it modest. No plunging necklines or open backs. You're not going to the club, party, etc. -- you are going to work. You want to stay classy and put together. Grays, blues, blacks and navy are still your best bet. When in doubt, keep the colors neutral!
3. Blazers
Blazers are essential to dressing professionally. It shows you're well put together and take your job seriously. The difference a blazer makes to an outfit is outstanding; it has that extra something you need in order to show that you are a hard-working professional that is clean cut and polished. Again, neutral colors are your best option, but make sure they match your dress pants, skirt or dress!
4. Business heels or flats
If you decide to wear heels, make sure that you can walk in them. It's the furthest thing from professional if you're wobbling while you walk. Your heels should be on the lower side because it looks more polished. If heels aren't for you, a nice business professional flat will do the trick!
For men:
1. Suits
Guys, you can never go wrong with a suit! However, you must wear it properly to make sure you look as professional as you want to be. For one thing, make sure it is properly tailored. If you have a suit that is too long, too short, too big or too loose, you could look sloppy. Also, make sure that what you wear is color coordinated. Stick to the same color (still neutral colors) pants and jacket!
2. Dress shirts with a tie
It's always best to wear a full suit, but a dress shirt with a coordinating tie is professional as well. A neutral-colored, neatly ironed, tucked in, button up dress shirt with a tie that matches will make you look the part. Just please make sure your tie matches your shirt, your dress shirt is buttoned up all the way and your tie is tied correctly and tight.
3. Dress slacks and a sweater
A nice, clean cut sweater and dress slacks can go a long way if done correctly. Make sure the sweater is professional-looking, not casual. You should also wear a dress shirt underneath it for an extra something that makes you look more professional. Pair that with a some dress slacks that match and you have a professional look that's a little more comfortable.
4. Dress shoes and dress socks.
Black or brown leather shoes are the most professional-looking shoes, as long as they match the outfit you're already wearing. It is also important to wear dress socks with your shoes that come up to your mid-calf. Dress socks don't have a Nike or Adidas logo on them; make sure they are business professional socks!
