I always had a hard time figuring out what to wear to work and creating the perfect professional outfit each day. I worked in corporate consulting for 8 years, and it was male-dominated, so I had to look professional but I didn’t want to distract from my work product. I wanted my outfits to display confidence and show I was highly organized. I gave a lot of client presentations every day, so I had to look my best daily.
Note: This professional wardrobe may not be for everyone’s work environment or style, but this worked for me. I wish I had an outfit plan when I first started rather than spending 8 years until I finally felt like I had a good closet to work from.
Then, I quit my day job and now work from home in my pajamas but, oh well. I still love dressing up and if I had to go into the office this is what I would wear!
21 Must-Have Staples For a Perfect Professional Outfit
Blazer
This is the perfect basic piece to dress up any outfit, from dresses to pretty tops.
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Old Navy (black): Classic Ponte-Knit Blazer for Women – $44.99
Maurices (pink): Solid Open Front Blazer – $29
Shell Blouses ( for underneath the blazer)
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Loft (white): Ruffle Henley Shell – $49.50
Loft (pink): Heart Ruffle Henley Shell – $54.50
Long Sleeve Blouse
For pairing with a skirt or dress pants.
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Loft: Dotted Utility Blouse – $59.50
Button Up Shirt
The wide strips on this button up are just a little bit different, without being too trendy or flashy.
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Express: Striped Satin Twill No Pocket City Shirt $59.90
Tank Tops (for under blouses)
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Express (black): Best Loved Bra Cami – $19.90
Express: Best Loved Bra Cami – $19.90
Cardigan
Get this cardigan in multiple colors, it’s comfortable and so soft!
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Bobeau: Amie Waterfall Cardigan – $58
Dress Pants
Simple, and classic.
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Old Navy (navy): Mid-Rise Straight Trousers for Women – $14.97
Express (gray): Mid Rise Barely Boot Columnist Pant – $79.90
Heels
Add on in each color to your professional wardrobe, and you’ll match with any outfit!
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Nordstrom (nude): Hazel Pointy Toe Pump $59.96–$139.95
Aldo (black): Galaodia – Sale Price $44.98
Pencil Skirt
Classic and flattering on everyone.
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White House Black Market: Essential Pencil Skirt – $89
Matching Pants and Blazer
This is your interview/important meeting outfit. Add a blouse or button-down, and you are good to go.
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Zara Blazer: Checked Cigarette Pants – $29.90
Zara Pants: Plaid Blazer – $49.90
Minimal Necklace
This adds just a little touch of something extra to any outfit.
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Etsy: Stella Necklace – $34
Work Tote
I love this size, it can fit a small laptop or tablet, your planner, and whatever else you need. The simple design means it will go well with just about any outfit.
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Nordstrom: Lexa Pebbled Leather Tote – $159
Dresses
Throw on a blazer and go!
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White House Black Market (nude): Bow-back Sweater Knit Shift Dress
Loft (black): Striped Tie Cuff Sweater Dress – $89.50
