College To Real World:
You may have graduated magna cum laude Ms. Know-it-all, but your torn shirts and Haviana’s won’t make the grade come fall. From workplace to loungewear, these tips guarantee you’ll make the successful transition from party to professional.
What To Ditch:
Flashy Heels: What was once considered acceptable for Thursday nights at The Shark is now deemed trashy for the workplace. Stash away your 4 and 5-inch heels for the weekends. At the office make sure the heel his both chic and comfortable.
Bandage Skirts: Remember that old “fingertip length” rule from high school? Follow it. If you find yourself tugging just to conceal yourself from your co-worker the next cubicle over, it’s time for a new skirt.
Questionable fitting clothing: Toss it if it’s too tight, too short or too baggy.
What To Keep:
Pencil Skirts: A wardrobe staple for any working woman, these skirts are both versatile and timeless. Opt for basic colors such as black, camel and gray.
Blouses: Great to mix and match with the aforementioned pencil skirt. Bright hues work excellent under neutral blazers and add an unexpected pop of color and personality to an outfit.
Messenger Bags: Let’s face it, you can’t tote your Greek letters around for the rest of your professional career, so invest in a leather messenger or carryall instead. Metallic hued bags are great for both summer and fall.
Flats: Your Christian Louboutin’s will wreak havoc on your feet during morning coffee runs, so opt for a trendy flat instead. But don’t be boring. Try a shoe with embellishments that will last well into next season.
What To Try:
Blazers: Cotton, poly-blend, gray, studded, black, basic. The options are endless. Both BCBG and H&M offer a fresh take on blazers.
Adopting the “Less is More” Mentality: This mantra works for both accessories and makeup. Unless you work in a creative environment, keep eye makeup to a minimum and avoid bright colors on both lips and lids.
High School to College:
With your detention days long gone, you’ll quickly realize the dramatic change in social norms as an incoming freshman. You’re less concerned with the opinions of others, allowing more freedom in your choice of clothing. So those gladiator heels you drooled over senior year can be yours without fearing the wrath of your Hollister clad classmates.
What To Ditch:
Scrubs: Loungewear doesn’t have to equal sloppy, so ditch the sweats. Slumming it won’t make others think you’re too cool to care. They’ll just assume your too lazy to shower. Yoga pants are a much better alternative, but use sparingly.
Backpack: If you’re bothering to bring along a bulky backpack, don’t forget to pack your lunchbox. Trade in this bulky style for a sleeker and spacious messenger bag.
What To Keep:
Leggings: If worn the correct way, these can be both casual and fashion forward.
Anything Denim: Last season, denim skirts would have been a definite no-no, but recently stars like Sienna Miller and Lily Allen have proved their ease of wear. Keep your skinny jeans and shorts, they look chic paired with flat sandals or wedges.
Basics: You’ll figure out that shopping options are limited in East Lansing, so utilize American Apparel for their selection of basic tanks and tees.
What To Try:
Tights: In colors such as black or navy, these are a grown up version of the conventional legging. Not only are they more versatile, but you can create a chic look for fall by pairing them with a variety of outfit pieces.
Scarves: Patterned or plain, scarves are a basic amenity to any wardrobe. Dressed up or down, they’re great for any outfit, any season.
Basic Pumps: For recent grads, stick to the basics when you’re just entering the world of grown-up footwear. Unlike high school, you’ll no longer look like you’re trying too hard if you arrive at a house party in 5-inch wedges. A simple, black pump is perfect for nights out, just make sure you avoid pointed toe style and opt for a peep toe or almond shaped option.
