This post was sponsored by Candies at Kohl’s as part of an Influencer Activation for Blog Meets Brand and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

After I graduated from college I moved my wardrobe from the tiny dorm closet to my slightly-less-tiny at-home bedroom closet. Then, I started an internship in the media world. Then, I got hired full-time as an associate editor. The past year has really been a time of transition.

And this year is when I really began to realize how much wardrobe needed to grow up and I found myself falling out of love with the polka-dot minidresses, shimmery tops, and fun T-shirts I’d worn the hell out of in college. I also found myself reaching for the same pieces every morning as I got ready for work … they were ones I’d worn a lot in college that actually ~grew up with me~ because they were sophisticated but fun.

So, in time for back-to-school season, here are some of my tips for making purchases that’ll actually grow with you from college classes to young-adult life in the working world. Plus, a great deal for some of my favorite items from the Candie’s collection at Kohl’s.