You’ve scored it, that all-important first job. Whether this is your first full-time job, first paying job, etc. You are bound to be excited. Then, after you get excited, you realize that your college wardrobe of graphic t-shirts and blue jeans with Vans are not up to par.

What you need is a wardrobe to wear that will not break the bank. After all, there are so many options you need to make sure that your small reserve of money is spent well.

Whether you are a man or a woman, there are basic pieces that will help you out in your business wardrobe journey. My first suggestion is to start a store such as Target. I recommend starting there because, not only do you have the Target brands to choose from, but they have been attracting many designers to put limited collections in their stores.

And, if you’re a woman, I’m sure you’ve seen the Isaac Mizrahi collection that looks like it costs much more than you will pay. Other discounted stores, such as Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and the outlet stores of your favorite retail stores provide good basic pieces at a lower cost than you would find at a traditional Nordstrom’s or Gap.

Now that you know where to go, now you need to know what to buy. To simplify this process, I have put together a list for both men and women of basic pieces that are interchangeable. Not only do these pieces offer versatility, but you can also build upon them as you add more pieces to your wardrobe.

Women:

1. Black or grey knee-length skirt
2. Black or grey blazer
3. White button-down shirt or similar white blouse (long sleeve and short sleeve)
4. Trench coat
5. Classic pumps or ballet flats (choose carefully based on your work environment)
6. Day Dress
7. Black or grey slacks
8. Properly fitting undergarments
9. Jewelry (should reflect your style but not overwhelm you)
10. One trendy item that will not blow your budget or work dress code

Men:

1. Tailored power suit in black and grey or brown (choose 2nd color based on how it looks when you try it on)
2. Black dress shoes
3. Brown dress shoes
4. White button-down shirt
5. 2 other button-down shirts in alternative colors (such as blue or grey)
6. 3 ties
7. Plenty of dress socks (at least 7 pairs and these should be in black)
8. Trench coat
9. One nice watch (note that I did not say expensive)
10. Great looking pair of cuff links

These lists are just to get you started. As you work longer at your job, you will find out what is acceptable and what is not. However, these pieces will serve you well, no matter where you work (unless you work at a place that requires a uniform - but that’s a separate article!).

One final note, always be sure to try on everything before you buy it. There is nothing worse than clothes that do not fit properly. Clothes can be tailored to fit your body if they generally fit off the rack (this is especially important for those of us on the petite side). Bring along a friend who will be honest with you about your choices and how they look. This is especially important if the dressing rooms only have one mirror. You need to know how you look from other angles.

Take this list, have fun shopping, and you’ll be able to impress your new co-workers and your boss without breaking the bank.

Copyright 2008
Wendy Stewart
All Rights Reserved

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Wendy Stewart - Stylist, Image Consultant, and Personal Trainer for http://www.signaturefitnessconsulting.com and http://fit-fab.blogspot.com - resources for healthy living and weight loss for women and girls of all ages. Follow the links for your free fitness e-course.

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