If you just landed your first job or you are about to start an internship or placement then you may be worried about what to wear. Often those new to the job market don’t have a full working wardrobe or the range of fashionable items that you see on the catwalk. While they wait for that first pay check they have to work out how to get by. Here are a few wardrobe essentials that will help you to bridge the gap.
Winter work wear
You can’t go wrong with basic black or grey, especially in winter. Your only issue is which item of clothing should be that color. Why not all of them? A pair of black trousers or a long woolen skirt can be the basis of your working wardrobe. Top that off with a matching jacket and you’ll be fine for the next couple of weeks.
Ideally, you should be able to mix and match so if your budget can stretch get a couple of items for the top (two different but matchable jackets) and a few for the bottom (perhaps a skirt and a pair of trousers). The only issue you have to solve then is what to wear in between. For winter this could be a shirt and pullover or a blouse with a cardigan or sweater jacket. The trick with these items is to stick to a few shades so that you can get several outfits with just a few items. To round out your outfit you need some footwear. At the very least, a pair of boots for the colder days and a regular pair of shoes for the rest of the time.
How many items do you actually need? Some fashion gurus recommend 12. This would include two jackets, three pairs of trousers or skirts, four tops, a dress and a couple of sweaters. You’ll be able to get a number of combos with just these.
Summer work wear
If you’re starting your job in summer the essentials are the same though you will probably want to inject some color. Use the same principles of getting items that work well together. You can swap long skirts for shorter ones and perhaps replace one of the jackets. It’s always a good idea to have at least one in case you’re working somewhere with fierce air-conditioning. If you want to be fashionable but not break the bank then spend your budget on accessories in the latest styles and colors. Scarves, belts and shoes will help you feel and look trendy while keeping a basic wardrobe that you can wear all year round.
Freelance writer Sharon Hurley Hall writes for Dolly Leo which supplies Suqqu makeup.
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