Lately, I’ve been really reflecting on my wardrobe. I do this often, but now as I am nearing graduation I’ve gone over it with an extra scrutiny. I’ve pulled items I haven’t worn in a long time to the top of the piles and I started to really decide whether or not I want them or not.
This has also been a time of getting rid of clothes and downsizing. There’s been a creation of “the bag” (which I explain here) in the hall closet of our house and my friends and I have begun to fill it with shirts, dresses and other clothes we seriously don’t wear or don’t need to take with us when we move back in and embark on our post-grad life.
I’ve also been on the prowl for some post-grad wardrobe essentials, including lots of new tops that are casual enough to wear every day but nice enough to potentially wear to work (should I be lucky enough to get a job!). And so, this post-grad wardrobe guide post was born.
1. A Cocktail Dress
This is always good to have, just in case. I recommend TJ Maxx or Marshalls for finding a good one at a fair price. Pick a color that looks great on you and a style that is classy and gives you confidence. My go-to is a form-fitting dress with a high neckline. It strikes that sexy and classy balance very well.
2. A Blazer
If you, like me, wear a lot of black, I suggest getting one that can be a pop of color. These don’t need to be overly expensive, but they can also be a splurge. I have one that was $40 and one that was $18 and I get a decent wear out of both.
3. A Comfortable Enough Pair of Heels
I’ve yet to find a pair of heels that are genuinely comfortable, but I’ve found a pair that is comfortable enough. It’s all about being able to walk a decent amount without crying.
4. Something to Wear to a Wedding or Bridal Shower
Right after college is generally prime time for engagements and weddings. This isn’t super urgent, but if you ever come across a well-priced, gorgeous dress that you’d wear to a wedding or bridal shower, consider adding it to your wardrobe.
The worst thing is having to go last-minute dress shopping and eventually settling on something you don’t really love. Chances are there will be a few of these in the near future, so it’s good to be prepared.
5. The Perfect Jeans
It’s goot to have a black pair and a blue pair. Hopefully, you have these in your wardrobe already. I recommend Old Navy’s rockstar jeans. They’re affordable, flattering and cozy.
6. Waterproof Boots
They don’t necessarily need to be rain boots as long you can wear them in a downpour and still have dry socks. Mine are currently falling apart, so I am considering investing in a new pair. See? I’m learning by taking inventory of my essentials! Woo-hooo!
7. A Classy Coat
A trenchcoat or peacoat is a great option. Mine is my peplum peacoat because it makes me feel graceful and elegant but still young. Find a coat that is warm while still making you feel like the cool, young professional you are.
8. A Denim Jacket
This is such an easy piece to throw on over any outfit to make it a look. My light wash denim jacket has been absolutely amazing. It looks nice with most outfits and it’s truly a classic that will never go out of style.
9. The Interview Outfit
My formula is black heels, a Calvin Klein dress that makes me feel like a million bucks, a colorful blazer and fun statement necklace. Make sure this outfit still makes you feel fresh and young but also shows that you can be put together and professional. Ensure it’s not an outfit you’ll keep tugging at and adjusting, as that can be distracting during an interview.
It’s important to have some professional pieces you can work with. These vary from field to field, but my Young Professional Wardrobe Guide & 10 Essentials should be pretty inclusive for this one.
What to Get Rid Of
If you really want to clean out your closet, check out my The Ultimate Guide to Decluttering Your Wardrobe. Here are some items to consider getting rid of or, at the very least, keep for only-wearing-at-home purposes.
1. An Excess of Free T-Shirts from College Events
No need for a giant stack of college apparel, especially if there are any shirts from events or clubs that you A.) Did not like or, B.) Did not care about. Narrow down your t-shirt collection. Then, donate the rest! Keep just a few t-shirts to wear as pajamas. I only keep the softest, most important shirts from college as they make for prime sleepwear.
3. The Clothes You’ve Had Since Middle School
It doesn’t matter if they “still fit.” Only keep these if you have a genuinely good reason to keep them. I can’t think of any good reason to keep any clothes from middle school. When I get home I’m going to toss the t-shirt I still have from the 8th-grade production of Guys & Dolls. You should also do that.
4. Clothes That Make You Uncomfortable
I have finally parted with a top that, when I wear it, I find myself tugging at the hems and sleeves nonstop to make them long enough. Why waste time wearing something that distracts you?
5. Clothes You Don’t Like How You Look in
Why bother keeping them? If you no longer like how you look in a garment, even if at some point you did, donate it! There’s no point in keeping clothes that won’t make you feel as confident as possible.
What are your post-grad wardrobe essentials?
