College to the Boardroom: Dressing Appropriately

So, the party is over. College is ending and it is time for the "real world". Stop crying! It can be fun, I swear.

First challenge, transitioning seamlessly into the work world by looking the part. This is often times not an easy task for those who have never set foot in an office. You own the staple uniform of jeans, t-shirts and sweatshirts for daytime and black pants with sexy, little tops for nighttime... Now what?? Basically you have a closet full of "weekend wear". Get out your parents credit card (you don't have any money yet, you haven't started working) and get ready to shop.























I LOVE this look from J Crew and I think it is a great middle ground for someone just entering the work force. Let's be honest, you can't really afford to buy an entirely new wardrobe at this moment, so it is time to be creative. Owning pieces that are great for multiple occasions is the key to this great leap you are about to take.

Let's focus in on the details of why I think this is a great look for almost any working situation: First, you are put together, but you are not stuffy. Remember that you are 22 years old, look it. Be sophisticated, but don't try to age yourself by 20 years. The gig is up, everyone knows you just got out of college!

The top half of this outfit is so accessible that it could even be worn with jeans! Look, it really is just a fancy t-shirt and a colored cardigan. The print ups the ante of the tee (don't think Ed Hardy here!) and the color of the cardigan makes it a bit more youthful. The piece making the entire look so "office appropriate" is the pencil skirt. A necessity in any woman's closet of any age and almost any shape, this garment will kick it up a notch at the workplace. Plus, it is a great foundation piece and can be worn multiple times without your co-workers calling you out. Topped off with a complimentary red colored flat to offset the yellow cardigan and paired with funky bracelets, this outfit has full on green light approval! Mix and match any of the items shown here for looks ranging from casual to work. You can do it!

Another great item is the wrap dress. It is basic, simple, straight forward and can be accessorized how ever you like! This means that you have the power to exercise your styling muscle.... Within means! This is another garment that will stand the test of time, just like the pencil skirt. It has the flexibility to be worn in a sophisticated way or a playful way. You are in control. Adding a fun shoe, as this Banana Republic ensemble is showing, gives it that younger edge that you are going for. No need to be stuffy just because you are out of college. Fun and appropriate are the key words class.

Check out a Sass N Style video I did about being "Office Chic". My friend and I are just a few years out of college (OK, maybe 8), but you should get some fun and easy tips for looking great as you enter the workforce. Remember ladies, your look is going to get you immediate approval from your boss, but your confidence and attitude is going to get you a promotion!



College Photo courtesy of Getty Images
J Crew Outfit
Banana Republic Wrap Dress: $120