Entry Level Career Style Tips

The title does say “entry level” but these are tips career women at any level can use! If you aren’t sure what to wear to work, or are looking to make a change, keep reading.

Top: ASOS | Culottes: Rent the Runway | Boots: ShoeDazzle

Hello Lovelies!

I often get asked questions about career style from women in all stages of their career–from entry level to well established. Today I want to give a few style tips geared toward women who are considered entry level for a couple of reasons. One being that figuring out what to wear to your first big job can be intimidating. The second being that women starting out in their careers tend to feel like they need more clothes but are on a more strict budget. You all KNOW we are all about budget friendly spending. So here are some tips from what to wear to where to shop; I hope you all find them useful!

Observe your potential environment: We’re going to start before you even get the job. Whenever you interview somewhere, pay attention to how people are dressed. You don’t have to dress the exact same as everyone there but it’ll give you a idea of what kind of office space you could be working in. Use this as your foundation to determine what direction you should go in with your style.
Quality over quantity: It may be tempting to go on a full on shopping spree once you accept your offer but I don’t recommend it. I think at the entry level especially, it’s important to have a few good pieces in your wardrobe that you can mix and match to create different looks. Express has great quality work wear and they often have BOGO 50% some of their best pieces for work. Start with a capsule work wardrobe of a few pieces and branch out over time. There’s no reason to break the bank straight out the gate.
Play it safe: Let’s say you were too nervous in your interview to observe the tone of the office. Or you simply forgot how everyone dressed. No big deal, just play it safe with classic pieces like sheath dresses, simple (and modest) blouses, and pants. Once you spend about a week in the office with your safety stock in rotation, you can play around with bolder looks if you have the freedom to do so. Layer your interview blazer on top of any of these pieces if you want to look more smart. You can always take it off if you feel over dressed.
Shop clearance racks: Yeah, I said it. I live by clearance racks at my favorite “middle range” stores. Places like the aforementioned Express, Loft, J. Crew, Macy’s and New York and Company have some bomb clearance racks! We shop sales very frequently and that’s how you find some of the best pieces. The clearance rack isn’t just for what’s out of season, stores will often have “end of season” sales you can take advantage of. If you live in Chicago or anywhere like it, you know end of season sales for winter come at a time when you can still get good wear out of winter clothes. Clearance racks are an entry level career woman’s dream!
Shop “discount stores”: Places like Ross, TJMAXX, Marshall’s and Burlington have great work staples at often unbeatable prices! I’ve found some of my favorite work dresses at each one of these stores. They all carry some brands that are known for class and quality at a fraction of the price. In addition to work clothing, you can also find nice shoes and bags at these stores. Once you’re ready to flaunt your personal style at the office with accessories you can find them at these stores. I found my favorite nude/beige pumps at the Ross near my job for $15 on the fly! Don’t count these stores out because they come through in the clutch.
Express yourself: If you are comfortable in your work space and you know you have the freedom to express yourself, do that. You’ll get over the anxiety of being a newbie if you’re able to express your personal style at work. Do you feel most confident in bright colors? Bold prints? Start incorporating those into your wardrobe mixed with classic pieces to give yourself a confidence boost. When you look good you feel good and trust me it shows!
Set a monthly budget for shopping: This is probably my most important tip. When you’re first starting out in your career it’s important to set up budgets. You can set the tone for good spending habits early if you allot yourself a certain amount every month to build your wardrobe. Don’t spend your entire first check or signing bonus on clothes. The clothes will be there, trust me. Handle your responsibilities first then shave off a portion for shopping. You can decide to spend your budget however you choose, just try not to go over it. You’ll thank me later for being fashion blogger that encourages you to spend your money responsibly!
Emulate your style icons: Whether they’re a celebrity or a stylish coworker, it’s perfectly fine to emulate your style icons. You can recreate their looks in a way that suits you best. We all get stumped about what to wear or don’t know where to turn for style inspiration. Seeing the way someone else styles their clothes could encourage you to style pieces you currently own in ways you never thought of. Also, don’t be afraid to ask someone where they got a piece you’re totally crushing on. Most women love talking about their clothes, shopping and what deals they get. You could come up on more than just the piece you’re admiring.
Fashion blogs are your friend: Last but certainly not least, style blogs like ours are your best ally. We literally do what we do to inspire others! We want to share the pieces we love and best shopping secrets with others. Our blog in particular focuses on the cross sections of style, career and budget. We understand the importance of having balance with all of these things. Check out more of our posts for more style inspiration!