Whether you’re walking into a semester at college, settling into a new job, or just navigating life every day, a good starting point is owning the right professional clothes as you make big business moves in your life. Regardless of your career path, here’s how we can elevate our style while standing on business as aspiring professionals.
I’ve broken this down into three different lookbooks as a guiding point. Of course, there are many more ways to style your way there, but consider this the foundation.
THE STANDARD EDIT
The Standard Edit is all about true business professional. When I started college, I didn’t even own a suit. Within the first couple of weeks, I had to go out and buy one for a class presentation. At the time, I had no idea how essential it would become in my wardrobe. That first suit carried me through class presentations, interviews, networking events, and even my first internship.
The formula for this edit is simple and focuses on timeless pieces that serve as the foundation of any business wardrobe. You can even break the set apart and rewear each piece on its own. The look above is a perfect rule of thumb to make sure you fall within the lines of business professional: a tailored pantsuit paired with a classic blouse always works. For shoes, I switch between kitten heels and loafers depending on the day. And one rule I always follow, if your pants have belt loops, add a belt.
THE nine-to-five EDIT
The Nine-to-Five Edit is that sweet spot between business professional and business casual. This is where you get to explore your personal style a bit more by incorporating different colors, cuts, and textures while still maintaining a polished, professional look. Instead of sticking to the same standard suit every day, this edit gives you room to add your own edge and personality to your workwear.
These are some of my favorite ways to play dress-up for the day at the office: mixing and matching tops with different colored pants and long skirts that feel just as easy as they look. The beauty of an edit like this is in the flexibility. One striped blouse can go tucked into a sleek black slip skirt for a softer look, or paired with tailored trousers when I want something a little sharper. A simple white cardigan becomes the anchor for half my week, layered over everything. And of course, I never underestimate what the right shoes can do. A pointed slingback, a classic loafer, a pair of playful tassel flats: each one shifts the whole mood of an outfit. That’s really the heart of the Nine-to-Five Edit. It’s about building a wardrobe that works as hard as you do, with pieces you can wear over and over, and enough room left to have a little fun getting dressed.
The Office edit
The Office Edit is all about reading the office. Before I had my first real exposure to corporate America, I imagined everyone wearing suits every day or sticking to a strict business casual dress code. But once I got there, I quickly realized the reality was much more relaxed. Some people wore jeans, others opted for skirts and sweaters. It really depended on the company culture. I often compared notes with friends at different offices, in different locations, and the differences always surprised me.
The key is to feel out the vibe of your workplace and build a style that’s both polished and comfortable for you. Personally, I love a good blazer moment paired with the right jeans and a simple top. It’s effortless, confident, and perfectly office appropriate.
With love,
SKH