How to Create a Professional Business Wardrobe

Navy or black suits form the foundation of any professional wardrobe.

Whether you are a new graduate entering the working world for the first time or returning to a traditional office environment after several years away, chances are you need to build a professional work wardrobe. How you dress for work is an important part of your professional image, and wearing clothing that is too casual, ill-fitting or out of style can influence whether your colleagues and clients view you as competent and professional or not. Start building your work wardrobe with some neutral basics, then add pieces as your income and personal style changes.

Instructions

Wardrobe for Women

1. Purchase at least two suits in neutral colors – black, navy, charcoal-gray or camel – to form the foundation of your professional wardrobe. Choose suits that include a jacket, skirt and trousers for maximum versatility.

2. Add three button-down shirts and three layering tops; at least one top must be white. Sleeveless shells work well under suit jackets, especially during the warmer months.

3. Invest in one or two classic sheath dresses to pair with a jacket or sweater. Wrap dresses, if they are not too clingy or revealing, are also appropriate in some work environments.

4. Include a few outfits for “dress down” or business-casual days. Tailored pants and skirts, sweater sets, and tops featuring your company logo provide options for days when you don’t need to dress up.

5. Purchase appropriate undergarments. Go for a professional bra fitting and invest in bras that fit well; always wear beige or tan bras under white or light-colored clothing. If pantyhose are a must in your professional environment, stock up on the best quality hose you can afford.

6. Invest in good-quality shoes. Simple, low-heeled shoes in brown and black leather will coordinate with most of your outfits.

Wardrobe for Men

1. Purchase two to four suits in navy or black to build the foundation of your work wardrobe. As your income increases, purchase additional wool suits in a variety of weaves and colors, including charcoal-gray and tan.

2. Add dress shirts to your wardrobe. Aim to have at least 15 shirts in a variety of colors, or enough to wear a different shirt every day for three weeks. This allows you to limit wear and tear on the shirts and have a clean shirt even when you haven’t done the laundry.

3. Include sportswear pieces for business-casual days. Several pairs of casual cotton pants in khaki, tan, olive or black coordinate with sport coats or blazers or high-quality wool sweaters. A few high-quality polo shirts are appropriate in some environments.

4. Build a collection of neckties. You should have between 10 and 20 ties in a variety of styles and colors.

5. Purchase several pairs of shoes. Depending on the suits you own, you need at least one pair each of black and brown lace-up dress shoes as well as a pair of brown or black slip-on casual shoes, such as loafers.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase the best quality clothing you can afford. A few well-made pieces will last longer and look better than a large wardrobe of cheap clothing.

• Invest in tailoring to ensure a good fit. Spending a few dollars to have pants or a skirt hemmed and the sleeves shortened on a dress shirt can make even inexpensive garments look more high-end.

References

• "U.S. News & World Report"; How to Build a Professional Wardrobe on a Dime; Amy Lu; September 2010
• "Marie Claire": Building the Perfect Work Wardobe
• Jane Has a Job; Building a Basic Work Wardobe: A Checklist; Emma; November 2010
• "Forbes"; Wardrobe Essentials for the Young Professional; Lauren Sherman; July 2008
• Men's Wearhouse: Building a Functional Wardrobe, Sport Coats & Pants
• Men's Wearhouse: Building a Functional Wardrobe, Dress Shirts & Accessories