20 Fashion Staples And Statements For College Girls To Add In Their Business Wardrobe
Start writing a post
Adulting

20 Fashion Staples and Statements For College Girls To Add In Their Business Wardrobe

A guide to upgrading your business wardrobe from dull to professional chic.

174
https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/vp/21dbdac86ab95f8fc07fdac42004857d/5C175B0B/t51.2885-15/e35/29088343_444874935947217_253421401384419328_n.jpg

Building your wardrobe is just as important as building your résumé. Your clothes affect the first impression you give others. It does sound shallow to say that what you wear is judged. What if you can't afford to spend more than $100? What if you actually can, but you're more on the practical side? What if you just do not know how to style yourself?

No worries! That's what I am here for. I have gathered some of the staples and statements that should be in your closet.

Yes, there will a few expensive pieces included. It might be daunting, but the key is to invest in quality clothing that you can mix and match with cheaper pieces!

1. Black suit

static.zara.net

Whether you are in the business field or not, a black suit is a closet staple. You can wear it with a classic white dress shirt or mix it up with a patterned top. You can even go for an all black look with a pair of bright-colored shoes. A black suit is very easy to style. If you're feeling a little bit more creative, wear the blazer with a different pair of pants or wear the pants with another jacket.

Blazer, $69.90; Pants, $45.90.

2. Turtleneck sweater

www.forever21.com

Who doesn't love a soft and cozy turtle neck sweater? A perfect piece for fall and winter to keep you warm and stylish. With a light neutral color, it would go perfect with darker shades.

Sweater, $19.90.

3. Paper bag pants

lp2.hm.com

A pair of paper-bag pants will change your life. They're so comfortable. With the high-waist style, you can wear them with a fitted Oxford shirt or any other fitted tops. Throw on a blazer and you got yourself a whole look.

Pants, $17.99.

4. Leather loafers

media.aldoshoes.com

Can't afford Gucci loafers? Aldo has you covered with their wide selection of loafers. A black pair of loafers will go with anything. Not only can they complete business attires, but they can also be worn casually too.

Loafers, $80.

5. Slingback flats

s7d9.scene7.com

Slingbacks have made a comeback. When you're a practical college girl, Dior and Chanel are definitely not good options. For $80, you can get a pair from Steve Madden.

Flats, $79.95.

6. Leather tote

katespade.insnw.net

Every girl needs a tote where she can store everything she could ever need. It's worth investing in a designer one. Kate Spade sells them for around $300.

Tote, $298.

7. Bell sleeve blazer

www.forever21.com

Who said you just need one black blazer? A bell sleeve blazer is the cutest thing ever. Pair it with some skinny pants and a plain or printed top!

Blazer, $35.

8. Jumpsuit

static.zara.net

Yes, I know jumpsuits are fun until you have to use the bathroom. But, stores like Zara offer so many sophisticated styles. When you are too lazy to mix and match your tops and bottoms, a jumpsuit will come in handy!

Jumpsuit, $69.90.

9. Crepe dress

n.nordstrommedia.com

You cannot just wear pants all the time! Keep your style fresh by incorporating some dresses into your wardrobe. This crepe dress has that conservative design but still very cute.

Dress, $46.

10. Suede pumps

www.forever21.com

You need a pop of color every now and then. They may not be red bottoms, but the red color and suede texture make up for it. They are only $24!

Pumps, $24.

11. Mules

n.nordstrommedia.com

I would like to think that mules are the professional version of slides. They are easy and fun to wear. With the twisted top detail, they add elegance to your look.

Mules, $35.98.

12. Crossbody bag

s7d9.scene7.com

Gucci-esque purse minus the hefty price tag? Oh, yes! The color and details are to die for. Wearing an all black outfit? This purse will complete that look!

Bag, $68.

13. Adjustable crossbody bag

s7d9.scene7.com

There is no such thing as too many bags, especially when you're a pro at finding good deals. It's already too financially exhausting to be a college student, so high-end designer bags are a no-no. Thanks to Steve Madden, you can get that Gucci aesthetic for a lower price.

Bag, $98.

14. Plaid pants

www.forever21.com

Yes, you need plaid pants! They're not difficult to pull off. With a black top and black pair of shoes, you are good to go. If you want some color, either rust or teal will go perfectly with them.

Pants, $22.90.

15. Black blouse

static.zara.net

If you are looking to make a statement without drawing too much attention, opt out for a black blouse with statement sleeves and neck detail. As a whole, you still get that subtle look yet not completely plain and basic.

Blouse, $45.90.

16. White Oxford shirt

slimages.macysassets.com

You cannot have a suit without a white shirt. It's one of those pieces that you need to invest in. Ralph Lauren's Oxford shirt is a great option to consider. The quality and longevity of the shirt are worth the price.

Shirt, $125.

17. Pencil skirt

static.zara.net

A black pencil skirt is one of the basics that you should have in your closet. You're not limited to just pairing it with a blazer or a blouse. Why not wear a sweater and do a French tuck?

Skirt, $35.90.

18. Tweed two-piece set

static.zara.net

Major Chanel vibes alert! Chanel two-piece tweed sets will make a significant damage to your bank account, but you can still get the look for a little over $200 from Zara.

Blazer, $149; Skirt, $49.90.

19. Wool coat

lp2.hm.com

Cold weather is approaching so soon. While cardigans and sweaters are staples, a long coat will also keep you from shivering and make you look very well put together at the same time.

Coat, $129.

20. Trench coat

www.forever21.com

A trench coast is a huge must. Need I say more?

Coat, $59.90.

Achieving a professional chic look is not rocket science. Invest in expensive items. Rummage through clearance and sale racks. You are bound to find one or two great pieces. Putting a lot of dedication and time into upgrading your business wardrobe is so worth it. It will go a long way!

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

94185
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments