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Gaining experience is a key part of grad student life, with a significant amount occurring outside the classroom through internships and jobs. Regardless of the setting, professionalism and seriousness about the role must be demonstrated to employers, typically through a professional wardrobe. Although building such a wardrobe can be costly, tips for creating a professional look on a college-friendly budget are provided here.

Where To Find Clothes? 

Thrift/Consignment Stores 

Thrifting is a great option for students to shop for clothes on a college-friendly budget. It offers a variety of slacks, blazers, shirts, and shoes, often cheaper than retail stores.

Since thrift store selections vary, it helps to know what you want before going in. This way, you can find pieces that match your vision, even if they’re not exact matches. Check local thrift stores for restock schedules and discount days to get the best deals.

Thrift stores can provide everything needed to start building a professional wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Peruse Off-Price Retailers (i.e. TJ Maxx and Marshalls) 

So, the next time you’re looking for business gear, check out TJ Maxx and Marshalls for a combination of cost, style, and convenience.

Borrow From Family and Friends

There are times when professional dress isn’t necessarily a requirement or everyday occurrence in the workplace. In these cases, borrowing pieces from people near you can be a smart and practical solution. You might be surprised at the hidden gems you can find in the closets of family and friends. Personally, I have managed to uncover several stylish and professional items in my mom’s closet that have become staples in my own wardrobe.

Borrowing from family and friends is particularly useful for interviews or other events where you may need to dress more formally than normal. These scenarios frequently necessitate a polished and professional image, even if it is not the standard for your workplace. Having access to a variety of wardrobe alternatives without making a financial investment can make a big difference.

This is certainly the most cost-effective and risk-free alternative, as you can return the clothing when finished. It also allows you to try on several designs and sizes before purchasing. Plus, there’s something comforting about wearing something borrowed from a loved one and knowing that you have their backing when you enter key professional situations.

Book an Appointment with the Career Closet 

Don’t Forget About Clearance Sections! 

Lastly, the clearance department is often disregarded as a source of professional clothes. Many people tend to avoid these parts, believing they would not discover anything important, although this couldn’t be further from reality. Clearance sections frequently contain hidden gems, providing high-quality professional apparel at a fraction of the original price.

Retailers frequently mark down items to make room for new inventory, which means you can find stylish and current pieces that perfectly suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for blazers, dress pants, skirts, or blouses, clearance racks can be a goldmine for assembling a professional wardrobe on a budget.

So, next time you go shopping, don’t skip the clearance department. Take your time sifting through the racks; you never know what professional gems you’ll find!

Wardrobe Tips

Now that you know where to look, it’s equally important to understand what to look for. Here are some pointers and tips to help you decide which pieces you should buy and implement in your professional wardrobe on a college-friendly budget.

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Stick to Neutrals and Basics

Choose garments in solid neutral colors like black, navy, white/cream, beige/tan, and gray. These hues are less memorable, so you can wear them more frequently without drawing attention. They are also easy to mix and match, simplifying your morning routine and enhancing your wardrobe. While I prefer vibrant prints and bright colors in my casual wear, my professional outfit is nearly exclusively composed of appropriate neutrals.

Pay Attention to Fabrics

Avoid tight, clingy, extremely drapey, or flouncy textiles since they may not be taken seriously in a professional context, and inexpensive fabrics can seem worse under fluorescent office lighting. Online fabric recommendations can be useful, but in general, natural textiles (for example, a wool suit versus a polyester suit) look better over time.

Consider Classic Cuts and Silhouettes

Opt for timeless styles that won’t date quickly, especially for investment pieces like suits. For example, a moderate waist, straight-leg black trousers, or a classic white button-down shirt will remain stylish for work for years to come.

Invest in Tailoring

Tailoring can considerably improve the fit and appearance of your clothing, and it is essential for some items, such as pants suits and trousers. I would like to emphasize that tailoring is an investment but not always a necessity, as tailoring prices could range anywhere from $10 to $50. However, even minor adjustments can make a significant difference in how polished and professional you look. If you’re on a tight budget, prioritize tailoring key pieces that form the foundation of your work wardrobe, like blazers, dress pants, and skirts, which is quite easy to do at home!