The Do’s and Don’ts of Wardrobe for a Young Adult’s First Job

Jordan Miller-Mandel, a rising senior at The University of Missouri, shares do's and don'ts for fashion in the workplace after interning at The Buzz this summer. 

The real world is hard, but what’s even harder is figuring out what to wear for it. With so many options of clothing today, adults - young adults especially – often have a tough time figuring out the difference between business professional and business casual. It can be overwhelming heading into the workplace especially if it is a first job and, not to mention, when you are on a budget.

When I got this summer internship at The Buzz Magazines, I wasn’t sure exactly what “business casual” attire meant. Does that mean dress pants and a nice top? A blazer? What kind of shoes? Slowly but surely I started figuring out styles that worked for my budget especially after seeing what my other colleagues were wearing.

After thinking about the uncertainty of what to wear, I decided to ask around for some advice to share with others who might be starting a new or first job:

From the employer’s eyes:

Joni Hruska, president and owner of Career Placement, Inc. had some tips and tricks to help young professionals in the wardrobe department. She says: “Observe office attire during the interview process and ask, in advance, what expectations are. It is always better to be a bit overdressed than underdressed.”

When asked if she had any tips on dressing for the profession you want, she said “Understated jewelry, briefcase and leather portfolio make a professional statement. Always take a pen and your printed resume and a list of business references including company name, contact’s name, title, number and email with you.” And also: “Invest in quality attire. Some good things make a much better statement than a lot of inexpensive items. Keep a jacket at the office in case a last-minute meeting comes up that requires a more professional look.”

A senior account executive shares: “I've always been of the mind that there is very little downside to over-dressing, but it is easy to under-dress.  Start off on the right foot! It shows you take pride in yourself, and your job.” She also encourages to “Do your research and look online or network through friends to understand what is typical.  Be mindful, however, that what you see on social media or fashion blogs isn't always representative of real life.  It can be hard to tell; the bloggers make it look so effortless!  That's why it's important to seek out people already in the industry and ask targeted questions about what is appropriate.”

Her last piece of advice was: “Don't overdo 'trendy' . . . if I'm wearing something more fashion-forward, such as a cape blazer, I'll wear it over a simple black sheath dress.  For guys - if you have sensed that more colorful shirts are appropriate in your office (versus traditional white or blue), pair that with conservative slacks.  I love fashion and following trends, but I know the office isn't necessarily the place to try out new looks.  “

Jordan Miller-Mandel wore this outfit on her first day of work at The Buzz Magazines: Navy dress pants, a white shirt and a necklace.

 

From the Intern’s eyes:

I started my first day wearing navy dress pants that were cropped at the ankles and a chiffon white blouse with ballet flats. This isn’t my typical style but I dressed to impress the first day and so I could get the chance to see what other people were wearing in the office.

A typical office outfit for me is casual work pants; I feel that patterns and colors are your best friend. My favorite are a pair of cotton gingham print cropped pants.  I usually pair these pants with a chiffon shirt, either black or white with ruffles at the sleeves to add a little bit of flare. A few cute pairs of pants will do the trick and they don’t always have to be straight cut; I have a pair of long, flared striped pants that are a personal favorite.

Shirt wise, a rule of thumb I follow is no low cuts. Also, consider: Would your grandma approve of this outfit? Skirts and dresses are also great but just make sure it is close to knee length and isn’t too tight. And the hardest part - shoes. While you might think those cute summer sandals are okay for the job, think again. Opt for something more professional. My personal favorites are mules, anything with a low heel or sandals that cover your toes.