CAREERCOLLEGE

Dressing For Success

If you have an interview, professional event, internship, or even a new job lined up soon, the last thing you want to be worried about is what you are going to wear. It is important that you wear something that makes you feel confident and is also appropriate for the specific setting you are in.

Business Casual

Typically in a professional setting there could be two types of dress codes, business casual and business professional. What is the difference between the two? Business casual is more dressed down compared to business professional as the name implies. Since causal clothing can be subjective from person to person, or company to company, it is always recommended to overdress rather than underdress if unsure. Common items of clothing you can wear include blouses, dress shirts, polos, sweaters, dress pants, loafers, and even clean sneakers with the right outfit. Try to stay away from wearing sweatpants, jeans with rips or tears, beat up shoes, distracting patterns, or revealing clothing of any kind.

Business Professional

On the other hand, business professional attire follows stricter guidelines. This dress code is often more traditional, sharp, and conversative compared to casual business clothes. Business professional outfits are typically suits with long-sleeved button-down shirts and dress shoes or pant suits with flats or heels. Some common colors worn with this type of clothing include black, white, navy, or gray, but pops of color are welcome too.

Looking Your Personal Best on a Budget

Professional clothing can be expensive. This can become a real burden as it is often a requirement to have for jobs and professional events. Buying used clothing is a fantastic way to get major discounts on articles of clothing. Some places you can shop for reused clothing include Depop, ThreadUp, or any local thrift store. Often the clothing is in pristine condition and nobody would know it’s used.

Focus on the Staples

Investing your money in staple pieces is another smart strategy to bulk up your work wardrobe. Try to make sure every article of clothing you buy can go with other pieces in your closet. This way you can make several different outfits with fewer articles of clothing.

At the end of the day, you want to wear something that will allow you to be the best version of yourself. Invest in versatile, comfortable, and affordable pieces that will make you feel dressed for success!

Sources:

https://www.theforage.com/blog/basics/business-casual

https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/make-money/career/business-professional-attire/