Help me improve my wardrobe
January 13, 2012 6:47 PM Subscribe
Where can I get clothes and outfit ideas that are appropriate for both working in an office and attending class?
I'm a mid-twenties female grad student whose work attire has always consisted of uniforms or anything goes, which means I wear my usual: tshirt, sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers. Yep, that's it - and it's what I wear every day. I’ve always hated shopping and still kinda do, but I’m realizing I need to put a little more effort into how I present myself. So I would really appreciate some help in finding stores or even examples of outfits, since I really have no fashion sense at all. I definitely need help! It doesn’t help that I seem to be teetering on the edge between a lot of ‘categories’ (sorry- don’t know what to call it) of clothing. For example, I’m curvy and a little overweight, so a lot of the clothes I find don’t look/fit quite right (seems like skinny jeans are only for skinny people, or at least not for me), but the clothes at plus-sized stores are still a bit out of my range so they wouldn’t look right on me either. I need to find the clothes that look okay for non-skinny people in clothing stores that seem (at least to my inexperienced shopping eyes) to cater to the thin crowd.
Also, I tend to have trouble finding the right lengths of clothes since I’m too tall for the average sizes. I usually end up buying the long/tall options for pants but have noticed that I’m very close to being too short for the tall sizes of pants, and some do end up being too long. The sleeves of long-sleeved shirts tend to be a little short too. Not sure any of this can be helped, but just something to note, I suppose.
I’m also having trouble finding which department I should shop from. I feel like I’m kind of in-between the junior’s and the women’s sections – some from each look okay (I think?), but then some seem either too young and not made for my size or way too matronly. But maybe I’m just not looking at the right stores. Is there a happy medium? Have any suggestions of stores/outfits for my age group?
Alright, this whole attempt to, I guess, step up my wardrobe was brought on by the fact that I just got a new job, and it looks like I'll be needing to wear slightly nicer clothing than I'm used to, but I'm not really sure where to find it. (Fyi, I got the outfit for my interview from Kohl’s and Maurices) The job is an assistantship in an office, and I will be interacting with people every day (typically helping other students). I suppose I’m looking for business casual with emphasis on the casual. I’m thinking jeans without holes will be okay. Since I’m coming from a closet full of tshirts and jeans (most quite worn out by now), pretty much anything outside of that seems very dressed up to me. This sometimes makes it difficult for me to know when something is too dressy or too casual. I’m especially having trouble finding the middle ground on what to wear as a student vs. employee since I will be wearing the same outfit the entire day – going from class to work and work to class. I don’t want to be uncomfortable or terribly overdressed for class, but I know the sweatshirts and ripped jeans won’t cut it for work.
TL;DR: Please help me change my wardrobe from tshirts and jeans to something more appropriate for student life and my new office work environment. Any suggestions/examples/pictures of stores and outfits would be really great. Thanks for the help!!
I'm a mid-twenties female grad student whose work attire has always consisted of uniforms or anything goes, which means I wear my usual: tshirt, sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers. Yep, that's it - and it's what I wear every day. I’ve always hated shopping and still kinda do, but I’m realizing I need to put a little more effort into how I present myself. So I would really appreciate some help in finding stores or even examples of outfits, since I really have no fashion sense at all. I definitely need help! It doesn’t help that I seem to be teetering on the edge between a lot of ‘categories’ (sorry- don’t know what to call it) of clothing. For example, I’m curvy and a little overweight, so a lot of the clothes I find don’t look/fit quite right (seems like skinny jeans are only for skinny people, or at least not for me), but the clothes at plus-sized stores are still a bit out of my range so they wouldn’t look right on me either. I need to find the clothes that look okay for non-skinny people in clothing stores that seem (at least to my inexperienced shopping eyes) to cater to the thin crowd.
Also, I tend to have trouble finding the right lengths of clothes since I’m too tall for the average sizes. I usually end up buying the long/tall options for pants but have noticed that I’m very close to being too short for the tall sizes of pants, and some do end up being too long. The sleeves of long-sleeved shirts tend to be a little short too. Not sure any of this can be helped, but just something to note, I suppose.
I’m also having trouble finding which department I should shop from. I feel like I’m kind of in-between the junior’s and the women’s sections – some from each look okay (I think?), but then some seem either too young and not made for my size or way too matronly. But maybe I’m just not looking at the right stores. Is there a happy medium? Have any suggestions of stores/outfits for my age group?
Alright, this whole attempt to, I guess, step up my wardrobe was brought on by the fact that I just got a new job, and it looks like I'll be needing to wear slightly nicer clothing than I'm used to, but I'm not really sure where to find it. (Fyi, I got the outfit for my interview from Kohl’s and Maurices) The job is an assistantship in an office, and I will be interacting with people every day (typically helping other students). I suppose I’m looking for business casual with emphasis on the casual. I’m thinking jeans without holes will be okay. Since I’m coming from a closet full of tshirts and jeans (most quite worn out by now), pretty much anything outside of that seems very dressed up to me. This sometimes makes it difficult for me to know when something is too dressy or too casual. I’m especially having trouble finding the middle ground on what to wear as a student vs. employee since I will be wearing the same outfit the entire day – going from class to work and work to class. I don’t want to be uncomfortable or terribly overdressed for class, but I know the sweatshirts and ripped jeans won’t cut it for work.
TL;DR: Please help me change my wardrobe from tshirts and jeans to something more appropriate for student life and my new office work environment. Any suggestions/examples/pictures of stores and outfits would be really great. Thanks for the help!!
Response by poster: midwestern U.S.- snowy, cold winters & hot, humid summers
posted by lfergie401 at 6:51 PM on January 13, 2012
posted by lfergie401 at 6:51 PM on January 13, 2012
What Would a Nerd Wear
posted by two lights above the sea at 6:52 PM on January 13, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by two lights above the sea at 6:52 PM on January 13, 2012 [1 favorite]
It depends on your size, but I would try Express and New York and Co for tops. The shirts at Express tend to be longer and be slimming, and since they are oriented towards youth-business casual, you should be able to find stuff for work that is still appropriate for class because it's cute. NY&Co is a bit more business, but they often have cute tops (especially sweaters) that could work for you.
The trick to skinny jeans when you're not a stick is to a) get a pair that has some stretch built in and b) where them with boots. Skinny jeans are a stable in my life. Also darker jeans are good because they're slimming.
If I could dress you, I'd have you get a few pairs of nice, dark jeans (skinny and boot cut), cute calf-height boots, and some sweaters and short sleeve button-down shirts.
Also: cardigan with a tank under it. Also, I generally recommend staying away from the cheapo places... my rule is that they have cheap prices and cheap quality. Things will fit poorly and not last. If you get brand name stuff, it'll last longer and fit better. You can still find things cheap by smart shopping -- get coupons, go to the outlets, shop only clearance/sales, etc. It's much more worthwhile, though, because you'll ultimately spend the same amount of money (replacing the cheap clothes that wore out).
Also, What Not to Wear should be your fashion bible. Take a look through their videos, they have some specific advice for different body types that should help you know what to look for a little more specifically in the clothes you buy.
Here's some links: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8).
posted by DoubleLune at 7:47 PM on January 13, 2012
The trick to skinny jeans when you're not a stick is to a) get a pair that has some stretch built in and b) where them with boots. Skinny jeans are a stable in my life. Also darker jeans are good because they're slimming.
If I could dress you, I'd have you get a few pairs of nice, dark jeans (skinny and boot cut), cute calf-height boots, and some sweaters and short sleeve button-down shirts.
Also: cardigan with a tank under it. Also, I generally recommend staying away from the cheapo places... my rule is that they have cheap prices and cheap quality. Things will fit poorly and not last. If you get brand name stuff, it'll last longer and fit better. You can still find things cheap by smart shopping -- get coupons, go to the outlets, shop only clearance/sales, etc. It's much more worthwhile, though, because you'll ultimately spend the same amount of money (replacing the cheap clothes that wore out).
Also, What Not to Wear should be your fashion bible. Take a look through their videos, they have some specific advice for different body types that should help you know what to look for a little more specifically in the clothes you buy.
Here's some links: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8).
posted by DoubleLune at 7:47 PM on January 13, 2012
It sounds like you really just need to step it up a notch, rather than dive in with a totally new look, which should make the transition pretty painless.
First, you can definitely wear t-shirts and still look polished. Avoid t-shirts with images or words (no matter how clever!). I happen to think that boat neck styles look a bit more polished, but it depends on what you you find most flattering. I think Ann Taylor loft has good, not too plain t-shirts. But so does Gap, and even Old Navy, if you go in understanding that the ON shirts won't last as long (hint - don't dry them on high.) Avoid v-neck as they seem more on the casual side.
A good way to look a little dressier in the office is to add a cardigan. If a traditional button down is too preppy for your taste, try a longer boyfriend style or the currently popular drapey ones. Or go up another level to a more structured knit blazer.
As far as trousers, nice, dark wash jeans are a good option. Though I tend to lean more towards twill casual trousers (because I like to be different...) The wide leg trend is back in full force and it is pretty flattering.
As for shoes, I wouldn't wear trainers. Personally, I like a ballet flat or skimmer shoe, though I know a lot of people need more support. I will leave it to others for recommendations, but there are some nicer, more "grown up" casual sneaker styles that aren't too athletic for daily wear.
Lastly, I would encourage you not to worry about being too dressed up for anything. As long as you're not in a sequin gown at noon, you'll be fine. Explore the idea of skirts nad dresses, if you're not opposed to them. Simple cotton skirts and dresses with cardigans for A/C are great in the summer months. There may be a few days of people asking, why are you dressed so nicely? But pretty soon it will be normal and people will just think, "lfergie401 has such great style!"
posted by cessair at 7:54 PM on January 13, 2012 [1 favorite]
First, you can definitely wear t-shirts and still look polished. Avoid t-shirts with images or words (no matter how clever!). I happen to think that boat neck styles look a bit more polished, but it depends on what you you find most flattering. I think Ann Taylor loft has good, not too plain t-shirts. But so does Gap, and even Old Navy, if you go in understanding that the ON shirts won't last as long (hint - don't dry them on high.) Avoid v-neck as they seem more on the casual side.
A good way to look a little dressier in the office is to add a cardigan. If a traditional button down is too preppy for your taste, try a longer boyfriend style or the currently popular drapey ones. Or go up another level to a more structured knit blazer.
As far as trousers, nice, dark wash jeans are a good option. Though I tend to lean more towards twill casual trousers (because I like to be different...) The wide leg trend is back in full force and it is pretty flattering.
As for shoes, I wouldn't wear trainers. Personally, I like a ballet flat or skimmer shoe, though I know a lot of people need more support. I will leave it to others for recommendations, but there are some nicer, more "grown up" casual sneaker styles that aren't too athletic for daily wear.
Lastly, I would encourage you not to worry about being too dressed up for anything. As long as you're not in a sequin gown at noon, you'll be fine. Explore the idea of skirts nad dresses, if you're not opposed to them. Simple cotton skirts and dresses with cardigans for A/C are great in the summer months. There may be a few days of people asking, why are you dressed so nicely? But pretty soon it will be normal and people will just think, "lfergie401 has such great style!"
posted by cessair at 7:54 PM on January 13, 2012 [1 favorite]
Academichic is a good blog for outfit ideas, though it looks like it isn't being updated anymore. I also really like Already Pretty for a body-positive view from a woman who was once very much a t-shirt&jeans person herself.
To some extent, while the sections of stores you are looking in may have items that are "all wrong" or too young/too matronly, you have to push through and search for the items that are right for you. I know, shopping can be a drag because of this, but they are trying to cater to a wide variety of people, so some of the items you'll see will invariably be wrong for you. Sales associates will probably be able to help you if you describe what you need.
Don't worry too much about overdressing for class, unless you are wearing a ballgown - sounds like it makes you feel uncomfortable at first, but I'd challenge you to get outside your comfort zone on this one. Yes, many of your classmates may be wearing glorified pajamas, but looking professional is very much to your advantage.
A tailor can shorten pants that are too long, so don't discount tall sizes.
posted by decathexis at 7:55 PM on January 13, 2012 [1 favorite]
To some extent, while the sections of stores you are looking in may have items that are "all wrong" or too young/too matronly, you have to push through and search for the items that are right for you. I know, shopping can be a drag because of this, but they are trying to cater to a wide variety of people, so some of the items you'll see will invariably be wrong for you. Sales associates will probably be able to help you if you describe what you need.
Don't worry too much about overdressing for class, unless you are wearing a ballgown - sounds like it makes you feel uncomfortable at first, but I'd challenge you to get outside your comfort zone on this one. Yes, many of your classmates may be wearing glorified pajamas, but looking professional is very much to your advantage.
A tailor can shorten pants that are too long, so don't discount tall sizes.
posted by decathexis at 7:55 PM on January 13, 2012 [1 favorite]
The advice is great already, so I'll just add to the list of blogs to check out for inspiration.
Kyla at Blue Collar Catwalk has a great casual-but-put together style. She lives in a somewhat small college town in the Northeast as gets most of her clothes from larger chain stores. She's got a great eye for making simple things look really interesting. She's also not your typical skinny fashion blogger (she runs marathons and does roller derby, and has what she terms "powerhouse gams") and dresses her body so incredibly well. Her legs are effing phenomenal, but don't fit into skinny jeans that well, so perhaps seeing her picks for pants might be helpful.
posted by JuliaIglesias at 8:06 PM on January 13, 2012
Kyla at Blue Collar Catwalk has a great casual-but-put together style. She lives in a somewhat small college town in the Northeast as gets most of her clothes from larger chain stores. She's got a great eye for making simple things look really interesting. She's also not your typical skinny fashion blogger (she runs marathons and does roller derby, and has what she terms "powerhouse gams") and dresses her body so incredibly well. Her legs are effing phenomenal, but don't fit into skinny jeans that well, so perhaps seeing her picks for pants might be helpful.
posted by JuliaIglesias at 8:06 PM on January 13, 2012
It seems like a lot of this could be conquered with dark or black skinny (or bootcut) jeans with boots, a slightly fancier shirt. Some nice/fashion sneakers or boots and a piece of jewelry to top it off. A little make up and good hair can make a look go a long way as well. Good luck!
posted by raccoon409 at 8:21 PM on January 13, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by raccoon409 at 8:21 PM on January 13, 2012 [1 favorite]
I've seen all types of dress in classes, everything from ripped punk shirts to full-on three piece suits. If anyone asks, just explain that you came from work. They should understand.
posted by spinifex23 at 8:37 PM on January 13, 2012
posted by spinifex23 at 8:37 PM on January 13, 2012
Oh yes, I also wanted to add: shoes. A nice pair of comfy boots or bright flats will dress up simple casual items like a boatneck sweater and dark jeans.
posted by JuliaIglesias at 8:53 PM on January 13, 2012
posted by JuliaIglesias at 8:53 PM on January 13, 2012
I actually don't think graphic tees are off-limits. I just think they need to play by different rules. For instance, avoid words (enh, on the other hand, I still have two or three tees with political slogans that I wear to work on occasion).
Also, if you're going to do imagery, the imagery needs to be either bad-ass or subtle. Right now I'm wearing a shirt from Threadless with printing that is just a shade lighter than the shirt itself. The design is more of a pattern than a picture, mostly something to add texture to an outfit.
Also, I swear a third item - which a friend of mine calls a "butt cover", though I don't think they have to explicitly cover one's butt - makes just about any outfit seem more grown up. So you'd pair the jeans and that graphic tee you couldn't give up with a cardigan or maybe a jacket of some kind - hell, even a zip-up hoodie - et voila, you look like a real person and not a college kid.
posted by Sara C. at 9:44 PM on January 13, 2012
Also, if you're going to do imagery, the imagery needs to be either bad-ass or subtle. Right now I'm wearing a shirt from Threadless with printing that is just a shade lighter than the shirt itself. The design is more of a pattern than a picture, mostly something to add texture to an outfit.
Also, I swear a third item - which a friend of mine calls a "butt cover", though I don't think they have to explicitly cover one's butt - makes just about any outfit seem more grown up. So you'd pair the jeans and that graphic tee you couldn't give up with a cardigan or maybe a jacket of some kind - hell, even a zip-up hoodie - et voila, you look like a real person and not a college kid.
posted by Sara C. at 9:44 PM on January 13, 2012
I'm a female grad student who both teaches and takes classes. I can't address the sizing issues, but I can the level of casual and the length issues.
I occasionally wear nice jeans, but I normally go for khaki/green/brown pants. Some could be called cargo, and others are less pocket-y so they really are kind of jean-equivalents in non-jean materials. They are extremely comfortable, equivalent to jeans. But I think the non-jean color helps class it up a little. I've gotten them at Old Navy, TJ Maxx, Kohl's, and some at Goodwill or the Salvation Army. My go-to brands are Old Navy, Gap, and Unionbay. But I have found that buying pants at thrift stores is a little more difficult and time-consuming than tops.
Buy pants to fit your waist/hips and to at least the minimum acceptable length, and if they end up too long, it is worth the $7 it generally costs (at least both in NYC and Baton Rouge thus far) per pair to have a tailor hem them. Even on a non-existent salary. It makes any pant you wear look twenty times more professional if it is the correct length for your legs. It also extends the life of the pants to not be constantly stepping on them and dragging them through muck.
I have also discovered that I am in love with this particular Athleta skort. It is what all skorts should be, but unfortunately is the only one I've found that is. It is a really comfortable skirt that is impossible to flash anyone in. Water-resistant, never wrinkly, and casual enough that you can wear sneakers or boots but is still a skirt. The lighter colors look more professional; the darker you go the contrast stitching shows so it gets more casual.
You probably also already know this, but if you aren't wearing a good, well-fitting bra, your shirts won't live up to their full potential. I wear tops without logos, made in materials that don't look tired. So nothing that pills easily, or looks like it's been bleached through repeated washings. The midriff should always be covered, and I have a long torso, so I intentionally shop for longer tops. They are definitely out there, just hold your standards. A lot of long-sleeved tops do have that 3/4 length sleeve or intentionally seem to like cutting it off just before the wrist. I agree that that looks ridiculous. Just keep looking as there are plenty of long-sleeved tops that are appropriately long or that are made way too long to fold back over at the wrist so as to let you determine length. I don't wear anything that exposes cleavage, but down here in the South many of us wear sleeveless tops during the summer and it's appropriate. I usually end up getting tops from stores like Forever 21, JC Penney, and Victoria's Secret online, but primarily buy from Goodwill or the Salvation Army in brands like Gap, Banana Republic, etc. Thrift-found Gap is about 80% really weird and oddly short-waisted and 20% fantastic basics in the right proportions.
Jackets/outerwear choices are important. Wearing a basic top and a sweatshirt looks slubby, while a basic top and a fitted corduroy jacket looks so much more professional. My basic rules is that none of your jackets should have a built-in hood. (If you need to, carry a separate hat for cold ears outdoors and take it off inside.) Get ones that are cut kind of like business jackets but in more casual materials. Cardigans are also fine. Again, nothing with text on it.
If you straddle departments (juniors' and women's) just embrace it. I totally buy some items from juniors' and others from women's. Yes, some stuff in the one is too young and the other is too stuffy, but the split is more noticeable in some stores than others. Stores like the Gap brands (Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Athleta) don't have it. Stores like Kohl's, JC Penney, etc. do. Some don't so much have the split as just have some stuff that's wildly inappropriate and other stuff that's gold (Forever 21).
Wearing a silver or gold necklace dresses up any outfit and I highly recommend it. I get comments on my necklaces frequently. Strategic belt and scarf wearing are very helpful. Haircut and hairstyle matter more than you might think. I think you can get away with sneakers if they aren't beat to hell. Actually the more colorful they are the more intentional they seem. My bright orange ones get a lot of positive interest. (Unfortunately they are now discontinued.) Otherwise boots aren't too foot-painful.
posted by vegartanipla at 9:59 PM on January 13, 2012 [3 favorites]
I occasionally wear nice jeans, but I normally go for khaki/green/brown pants. Some could be called cargo, and others are less pocket-y so they really are kind of jean-equivalents in non-jean materials. They are extremely comfortable, equivalent to jeans. But I think the non-jean color helps class it up a little. I've gotten them at Old Navy, TJ Maxx, Kohl's, and some at Goodwill or the Salvation Army. My go-to brands are Old Navy, Gap, and Unionbay. But I have found that buying pants at thrift stores is a little more difficult and time-consuming than tops.
Buy pants to fit your waist/hips and to at least the minimum acceptable length, and if they end up too long, it is worth the $7 it generally costs (at least both in NYC and Baton Rouge thus far) per pair to have a tailor hem them. Even on a non-existent salary. It makes any pant you wear look twenty times more professional if it is the correct length for your legs. It also extends the life of the pants to not be constantly stepping on them and dragging them through muck.
I have also discovered that I am in love with this particular Athleta skort. It is what all skorts should be, but unfortunately is the only one I've found that is. It is a really comfortable skirt that is impossible to flash anyone in. Water-resistant, never wrinkly, and casual enough that you can wear sneakers or boots but is still a skirt. The lighter colors look more professional; the darker you go the contrast stitching shows so it gets more casual.
You probably also already know this, but if you aren't wearing a good, well-fitting bra, your shirts won't live up to their full potential. I wear tops without logos, made in materials that don't look tired. So nothing that pills easily, or looks like it's been bleached through repeated washings. The midriff should always be covered, and I have a long torso, so I intentionally shop for longer tops. They are definitely out there, just hold your standards. A lot of long-sleeved tops do have that 3/4 length sleeve or intentionally seem to like cutting it off just before the wrist. I agree that that looks ridiculous. Just keep looking as there are plenty of long-sleeved tops that are appropriately long or that are made way too long to fold back over at the wrist so as to let you determine length. I don't wear anything that exposes cleavage, but down here in the South many of us wear sleeveless tops during the summer and it's appropriate. I usually end up getting tops from stores like Forever 21, JC Penney, and Victoria's Secret online, but primarily buy from Goodwill or the Salvation Army in brands like Gap, Banana Republic, etc. Thrift-found Gap is about 80% really weird and oddly short-waisted and 20% fantastic basics in the right proportions.
Jackets/outerwear choices are important. Wearing a basic top and a sweatshirt looks slubby, while a basic top and a fitted corduroy jacket looks so much more professional. My basic rules is that none of your jackets should have a built-in hood. (If you need to, carry a separate hat for cold ears outdoors and take it off inside.) Get ones that are cut kind of like business jackets but in more casual materials. Cardigans are also fine. Again, nothing with text on it.
If you straddle departments (juniors' and women's) just embrace it. I totally buy some items from juniors' and others from women's. Yes, some stuff in the one is too young and the other is too stuffy, but the split is more noticeable in some stores than others. Stores like the Gap brands (Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Athleta) don't have it. Stores like Kohl's, JC Penney, etc. do. Some don't so much have the split as just have some stuff that's wildly inappropriate and other stuff that's gold (Forever 21).
Wearing a silver or gold necklace dresses up any outfit and I highly recommend it. I get comments on my necklaces frequently. Strategic belt and scarf wearing are very helpful. Haircut and hairstyle matter more than you might think. I think you can get away with sneakers if they aren't beat to hell. Actually the more colorful they are the more intentional they seem. My bright orange ones get a lot of positive interest. (Unfortunately they are now discontinued.) Otherwise boots aren't too foot-painful.
posted by vegartanipla at 9:59 PM on January 13, 2012 [3 favorites]
Ann Taylor Loft (and their stuff always goes on sale)
posted by Neekee at 10:38 PM on January 13, 2012
posted by Neekee at 10:38 PM on January 13, 2012
Even though sometimes the ideas don't mesh with my personal tastes, I really credit the magazines "Lucky" and "Instyle" for giving me ideas about things I'd never think of on my own. I think they helped give me some tools to use to then go on and create my own style and recognize what works/doesn't work on my body. And for as much as more creative types might crack on the show "What Not To Wear," for style-challenged me, it helped me!
posted by lucy40 at 3:58 AM on January 14, 2012
posted by lucy40 at 3:58 AM on January 14, 2012
vegartanipla has said a lot of the things I was going to bring up, especially regarding jackets and accessorizing. And I can't emphasize this enough, not wearing a good, well-fitting bra will make you look sloppy, no matter what you are wearing. Scarves help dress up even very basic tops.
I have found Eddie Bauer to be a good source of casual jackets that make you look a bit more dressed up but not full-on business suit dressing. Target is also good when you are on a budget. I pick up scarves from places like H&M. In the midwestern college town I spent a lot of time in, Keen or Merrell shoes in leather or suede were a popular alternative to sneakers for everyday wear.
If you have your own desk or a drawer in which you can leave things at work, I would suggest leaving a pair of ballet flats, and maybe a nice scarf or drapey cardigan in there. That way, you can be casual and wear a sweatshirt and sneakers while in class, but once at work change to look a bit more dressed up. Especially in winter in the midwest you'll be wearing shoes / boots that can handle snow and slush, which aren't always the comfiest things to be wearing indoors (not to speak of all the muck and road salt you'll be tromping in indoors), so having "indoor"shoes can be nice.
posted by needled at 5:37 AM on January 14, 2012
I have found Eddie Bauer to be a good source of casual jackets that make you look a bit more dressed up but not full-on business suit dressing. Target is also good when you are on a budget. I pick up scarves from places like H&M. In the midwestern college town I spent a lot of time in, Keen or Merrell shoes in leather or suede were a popular alternative to sneakers for everyday wear.
If you have your own desk or a drawer in which you can leave things at work, I would suggest leaving a pair of ballet flats, and maybe a nice scarf or drapey cardigan in there. That way, you can be casual and wear a sweatshirt and sneakers while in class, but once at work change to look a bit more dressed up. Especially in winter in the midwest you'll be wearing shoes / boots that can handle snow and slush, which aren't always the comfiest things to be wearing indoors (not to speak of all the muck and road salt you'll be tromping in indoors), so having "indoor"shoes can be nice.
posted by needled at 5:37 AM on January 14, 2012
Go join pinterest and search 'polyvore.' pin outfits you like. Install the pinmarklet app thingy to your toolbar and pin things you see on the websites of stores you love. Better, pin things you tried on and want to sale stalk. Do not buy full priced. (see below)
Then find your nearest banana republic, jcrew, express, Ann Taylor loft, Forever21, and try things on. You have to do this with a friend who feels invested in helping you look and feel awesome instead of just not naked. This is a recon mission. Your only goal is finding out what fits, where.
See, for me, I know that BR and Express shirts never for my shoulders. But their pants are great for me. With that information I can bypass entire swaths of floor space. Yes. I occasionally get sucked in by a great looking button down and try it on. If the sleeves and shoulders are right, the buttons will gape.
I tell you this because you need more variety on top than bottom. Owning 2 skirts, a black pant, a khaki and a grey pant will take you far. Feel free to buy multiple pairs of the same pants because you are, mark my words, never again going to buy full priced pants. BR puts them on clearance for $17-40. I'm pretty poor, so I wait for $17. Know your size, go straight to the sale racks. If there is nothing in your size, turn heel and go to the next place on your list. You can move with that speed because you've already evaluated which cuts work for you at which stores (I like the Martin at BR and the Editor at Express. Fabric at BR holds up better.)
Since you are becoming even more familiar with cuts and styles, you can now begin haunting eBay. Do not sound more than $20 for a piece here. Read extremely carefully. Rips, tears and stains will not be boldest or otherwise emphasized. Buyer beware. But I have a madras style jcrew skirt from eBay that cost me $6.99 plus shipping. It is perfect. Colorful, fits properly, good length.
So. What about shirts. The're just harder to buy. you may need a chaperone for your next several shirt purchases. The easy way (for your chaperone) is for you to go try on and buy a few shirts. Bring them to your buddy's house. Ply with wine. Mini fashion show with the pants or skirts you have in mind! return the so-so and no items ASAP.
I like Marshall's, Ross, etc for tops. Usually under $20 each. Some interesting shapes that can remain modest. I avoid The Cube in whichever of those stores. Really cheap (vs inexpensive. You never want cheap. You want well priced.) crappy revealing stuff. (I also got a pair of Lily Pullitzer shorts at one of those places. White w adorable strawberries on them. The compliments I get on those shorts....baffles me.)
Next. For shoes. Know your size and comfort in several brands. I can get away with an 8.5 in last summer's ridiculously cute Børn strappy heels. I got a pair, $15 at Nordstrom Rack. Hot pink. Was a $120 pair shoes. Nobody has to know. There are other brands I can do an 8.5 in. But I know they have to have particular features. Otherwise I am a 9narrow with preferences for Clark's, Naturalizer, Stewart Weitzman, and a few other brands. What does that mean? I can search online for my shoe size and further narrow by brand, sorting price low to high. Once I get out of my budget, I stop looking. (for the record, I branch out sometimes, and learned that Bass Enfield's do not work. But I waited until that discovery only cost me $16 at amazon and had free shipping attached. Then I gave the shoes to my mom person. I cannot afford to make an $80 footwear mistake.)
Are you still worrying about shirts? When you are trying on clothes, live in them briefly. Sit, stand, repeat. How much adjusting is required? In my family we say that if you have to tug at it, the damn thing doesn't fit. This is true from skirts to bras to strapless evening gowns). Take a stroll, do you feel awesome or schlumpy? Pretend to type. Reach over your head. Bend down. If this is a shirt you tucked in, did it stay? No, and it can't come home with you. How is the color? What 2 things that you already own will go with this? (check on that when you get home). I struggle with sleeve length (Banana Republic sleeves - too short) 3/4 sleeves can be your friend. Dolman sleeves keep trying to come back and I wish they would. Cap sleeves would be great on me except I don't care about my underarms the way many employers would prefer.
I said you want more variety on top. You can achieve this not only w shirts but also blazers (only perfectly fitting. Too large or too small and you look dumb. Sorry.) cardigans, pashmina wraps, neck scarf, necklace. Speaking of jewelry, add earrings if your ears are pierced. They can really compete an outfit, even just a simple silver dangly geometric shape. (but for the love of god, no hearts or ponies unless you can get away with the irony.)
Also for general, think about color. I have tended to stick with brown as an accidental side effect of my buying requirements of fit plus price. If the brown shoe is $5 less, I save the $5. But if you will never be able to put an outfit together around a purple peep toe flat....I don't care if they fit perfectly, cost $5 and are making your feet feel like dreamy little clouds. Put them back. I buy shirts and pants at thrift stores, and one time found a brand new pair of Stewart Weitzman heels for $8 in a 9narrow. I'm looking at them across the room, still so proud that I knew what I was seeing when they were there on the rack. I found them s few months after asking a desperate tearful question here about buying shoes online. I have come so far. You will as well.
posted by bilabial at 7:26 AM on January 14, 2012 [3 favorites]
Then find your nearest banana republic, jcrew, express, Ann Taylor loft, Forever21, and try things on. You have to do this with a friend who feels invested in helping you look and feel awesome instead of just not naked. This is a recon mission. Your only goal is finding out what fits, where.
See, for me, I know that BR and Express shirts never for my shoulders. But their pants are great for me. With that information I can bypass entire swaths of floor space. Yes. I occasionally get sucked in by a great looking button down and try it on. If the sleeves and shoulders are right, the buttons will gape.
I tell you this because you need more variety on top than bottom. Owning 2 skirts, a black pant, a khaki and a grey pant will take you far. Feel free to buy multiple pairs of the same pants because you are, mark my words, never again going to buy full priced pants. BR puts them on clearance for $17-40. I'm pretty poor, so I wait for $17. Know your size, go straight to the sale racks. If there is nothing in your size, turn heel and go to the next place on your list. You can move with that speed because you've already evaluated which cuts work for you at which stores (I like the Martin at BR and the Editor at Express. Fabric at BR holds up better.)
Since you are becoming even more familiar with cuts and styles, you can now begin haunting eBay. Do not sound more than $20 for a piece here. Read extremely carefully. Rips, tears and stains will not be boldest or otherwise emphasized. Buyer beware. But I have a madras style jcrew skirt from eBay that cost me $6.99 plus shipping. It is perfect. Colorful, fits properly, good length.
So. What about shirts. The're just harder to buy. you may need a chaperone for your next several shirt purchases. The easy way (for your chaperone) is for you to go try on and buy a few shirts. Bring them to your buddy's house. Ply with wine. Mini fashion show with the pants or skirts you have in mind! return the so-so and no items ASAP.
I like Marshall's, Ross, etc for tops. Usually under $20 each. Some interesting shapes that can remain modest. I avoid The Cube in whichever of those stores. Really cheap (vs inexpensive. You never want cheap. You want well priced.) crappy revealing stuff. (I also got a pair of Lily Pullitzer shorts at one of those places. White w adorable strawberries on them. The compliments I get on those shorts....baffles me.)
Next. For shoes. Know your size and comfort in several brands. I can get away with an 8.5 in last summer's ridiculously cute Børn strappy heels. I got a pair, $15 at Nordstrom Rack. Hot pink. Was a $120 pair shoes. Nobody has to know. There are other brands I can do an 8.5 in. But I know they have to have particular features. Otherwise I am a 9narrow with preferences for Clark's, Naturalizer, Stewart Weitzman, and a few other brands. What does that mean? I can search online for my shoe size and further narrow by brand, sorting price low to high. Once I get out of my budget, I stop looking. (for the record, I branch out sometimes, and learned that Bass Enfield's do not work. But I waited until that discovery only cost me $16 at amazon and had free shipping attached. Then I gave the shoes to my mom person. I cannot afford to make an $80 footwear mistake.)
Are you still worrying about shirts? When you are trying on clothes, live in them briefly. Sit, stand, repeat. How much adjusting is required? In my family we say that if you have to tug at it, the damn thing doesn't fit. This is true from skirts to bras to strapless evening gowns). Take a stroll, do you feel awesome or schlumpy? Pretend to type. Reach over your head. Bend down. If this is a shirt you tucked in, did it stay? No, and it can't come home with you. How is the color? What 2 things that you already own will go with this? (check on that when you get home). I struggle with sleeve length (Banana Republic sleeves - too short) 3/4 sleeves can be your friend. Dolman sleeves keep trying to come back and I wish they would. Cap sleeves would be great on me except I don't care about my underarms the way many employers would prefer.
I said you want more variety on top. You can achieve this not only w shirts but also blazers (only perfectly fitting. Too large or too small and you look dumb. Sorry.) cardigans, pashmina wraps, neck scarf, necklace. Speaking of jewelry, add earrings if your ears are pierced. They can really compete an outfit, even just a simple silver dangly geometric shape. (but for the love of god, no hearts or ponies unless you can get away with the irony.)
Also for general, think about color. I have tended to stick with brown as an accidental side effect of my buying requirements of fit plus price. If the brown shoe is $5 less, I save the $5. But if you will never be able to put an outfit together around a purple peep toe flat....I don't care if they fit perfectly, cost $5 and are making your feet feel like dreamy little clouds. Put them back. I buy shirts and pants at thrift stores, and one time found a brand new pair of Stewart Weitzman heels for $8 in a 9narrow. I'm looking at them across the room, still so proud that I knew what I was seeing when they were there on the rack. I found them s few months after asking a desperate tearful question here about buying shoes online. I have come so far. You will as well.
posted by bilabial at 7:26 AM on January 14, 2012 [3 favorites]
As far as not seeming too dressy. Avoid sequins, satin, and anything w rhinestone (which can also be toooooo casual). heel height is important, flats up to 1.5 or 2 inches is fine for business casual. Higher puts you (rightly or wrongly) into iffy territory. While I love a pencil skirt, it sounds like your place is too casual for that.
Also learn to do one 'professional type thing' with your hair. For me it's a basic quick hot roller set, and I wish I had known it when I was managing a dental office. People just treat me differently when my hair is done. Same with one dab of lipstick in the morning. (I'm 30, so this may not apply to you, but 2 people have suggested under eye concealer to me recently...eerp)
Finally, totally unsolicited advice. Wear the damn sunscreen. I swear it's why I still look 22.
posted by bilabial at 7:34 AM on January 14, 2012
Also learn to do one 'professional type thing' with your hair. For me it's a basic quick hot roller set, and I wish I had known it when I was managing a dental office. People just treat me differently when my hair is done. Same with one dab of lipstick in the morning. (I'm 30, so this may not apply to you, but 2 people have suggested under eye concealer to me recently...eerp)
Finally, totally unsolicited advice. Wear the damn sunscreen. I swear it's why I still look 22.
posted by bilabial at 7:34 AM on January 14, 2012
I'd say loose dresses/tunics with leggings? You can wear them with botties/boots, thick socks gathered at the top if you like the look... That's my go-to transitional outfit.
Also, I've found that sometimes, it's not necessarily the material or cut of garment that matters, but the actual COLOR (which I find really weird, but this is what I've observed in the workplace and from reactions of different bosses). The trick - and this sucks if, like me, you actually LIKE color - is to wear neutrals: whites, blacks (especially blacks), greys, taupes, ... With a bit of color from an accessory or something. For some reason, a regular, even cheap, black sweater seems to look more professional than a super colorful silk blouse that's worth something.
The last thing I do is that, since I love loose blouses, I wear these over a camisole or t-shirt. When I get to school I can take the blouse off and be in my comfy hoodie or sweater (which, living in Montreal, I always have as a second layer to my coat anyways).
posted by kitsuloukos at 10:41 AM on January 14, 2012
Also, I've found that sometimes, it's not necessarily the material or cut of garment that matters, but the actual COLOR (which I find really weird, but this is what I've observed in the workplace and from reactions of different bosses). The trick - and this sucks if, like me, you actually LIKE color - is to wear neutrals: whites, blacks (especially blacks), greys, taupes, ... With a bit of color from an accessory or something. For some reason, a regular, even cheap, black sweater seems to look more professional than a super colorful silk blouse that's worth something.
The last thing I do is that, since I love loose blouses, I wear these over a camisole or t-shirt. When I get to school I can take the blouse off and be in my comfy hoodie or sweater (which, living in Montreal, I always have as a second layer to my coat anyways).
posted by kitsuloukos at 10:41 AM on January 14, 2012
This advice is mostly already in here but I'm going to pull it out from all the wordiness above.
Dark jeans that fit you perfectly (buy them tight in the butt then get them hemmed). Comfortable but non-t-shirt tops with details. Oxford flats.
This is still 100% casual but will upgrade your look to be a little more polished and mature. Do not wear anything from a junior's section or Old Navy.
If long-sleeved shirts are short in the sleeve, 3/4 length sleeves are your friend.
posted by ootandaboot at 11:53 AM on January 14, 2012
Dark jeans that fit you perfectly (buy them tight in the butt then get them hemmed). Comfortable but non-t-shirt tops with details. Oxford flats.
This is still 100% casual but will upgrade your look to be a little more polished and mature. Do not wear anything from a junior's section or Old Navy.
If long-sleeved shirts are short in the sleeve, 3/4 length sleeves are your friend.
posted by ootandaboot at 11:53 AM on January 14, 2012
There may be a few days of people asking, why are you dressed so nicely? But pretty soon it will be normal and people will just think, "lfergie401 has such great style!"
Also, this. I went through this transformation and it wasn't as painful as I anticipated. Now people compliment me on my style but never ask why I'm so dressed up.
posted by ootandaboot at 11:56 AM on January 14, 2012
Also, this. I went through this transformation and it wasn't as painful as I anticipated. Now people compliment me on my style but never ask why I'm so dressed up.
posted by ootandaboot at 11:56 AM on January 14, 2012
This thread is closed to new comments.
posted by k8t at 6:49 PM on January 13, 2012