4 WAYS TO ELEVATE YOUR WARDROBE
by: Nicole Obiukwu
While beat up party shoes and cute bra tops might still work for the weekend, life in the professional world requires us to polish our look. Interviewers will always take your presentation into account when hiring new candidates. As we prepare to enter the workforce, it can be daunting to think about how much it might cost to buy a whole new professional wardrobe. But it’s far easier to update your closet without breaking the bank than you think. Adding these four elements to your daily wear will create reliable ways to look polished that will never go out of style.
1. ADD JEWELRY
It’s not very often that we reach for jewelry in college, especially when getting ready to go out where they might get lost, broken, or stolen. Jewelry is one of the easiest ways to add a little sophistication to your wardrobe. Think about smart, simple watches, dainty necklaces, or cuff links. An outfit without jewelry is often incomplete, and just a bracelet can take any outfit up a notch. It can also be a great way to show off personal style while still being professional, like a cute pair of statement earrings with a blazer.
2. SWAP OUT THE SNEAKERS
Though sneakers are comfy and reliable, they often make most of our outfits too casual for a workplace environment or even dinner. Opting for other shoes like square-toe booties, loafers, or heels, can make any outfit look smarter. An easy way to take a casual item like jeans to the next level is to pair it with a pair of heels or smart shoes. Unless it’s dress-down day, sneakers are probably too casual for your next job or meeting.
3. TAILOR YOUR LOOK
This doesn’t necessarily mean getting your clothes altered, but can be just making sure what you already wear looks its best. Iron clothes that may be wrinkly, and consider tossing the white tee that’s faded into a different shade. A wrinkle-free pair of pants shows a lot more care than you think. When you do buy new clothes, ensuring they fit you correctly and comfortably can make a huge difference in how professional an outfit appears. Opt for a fit that isn’t too baggy or too tight, too long or too short. Knowing how to dress for your height and body type will make sure you feel good in whatever you choose to wear. Your favorite top with the hole in it? You can always reach for it when the vibe’s more casual.
4. BE CONFIDENT!
You don’t need the most expensive suit or pair of shoes to stand out in a professional environment. Wearing clothes that you feel comfortable in can help boost your confidence. Preparing yourself ahead of time can also help you feel more sure in your endeavors.