Dressing for the job: How to put together a business casual outfit

Starting a new job or internship comes with anxiety — from not knowing what to expect, to learning a new position. It may be your first time in an office setting or your first day professionally working. One thing that can boost your confidence fast is having the perfect outfit. It is essential to strike a balance between being comfortable and professional, while also maintaining a youthful and stylish appearance.

Start with what you have

To save money and assess what you really need, look at your closet as many trendy looks can be transformed into business casual. Cardigans buttoned at the top are currently a big trend and can be paired with a full-length plain top and business trousers, giving you have a perfect look for fall.

Charm necklaces and ballet flats are all over campus right now and can be worn with a blouse to add a touch of fun while remaining professional. Ballet flats are perfect, because they are stylish but more comfortable than heels. It may be best to avoid heels until you know how much you’ll be on your feet throughout the day. 

For a more masculine-leaning outfit, everyone owns a simple polo which you can dress up by wearing a sweater on top. This is perfect for adapting to different temperatures throughout the day.

Go to the store you’re familiar with to start. It might be overwhelming to buy an entire suit the minute you get a job offer, but look at stores you already shop at—they most likely have good business options. Many brands have a “workwear” category, like Princess Polly, which offers belted trousers, oversized blazers like this one and a selection of blouses. 

While not all clothing options listed under this category would be considered professional for work, they have many options for young people. It can also be helpful to wear a camisole or fitted shirt underneath a blouse to add more comfort and security. 

Know the environment

Take note of the temperature you feel during interviews or company tours. Many offices are kept cold, so keep this in mind while getting dressed and focus on blazers, cardigans and layering. 

After a few weeks on the job, you’ll notice what your coworkers wear.

Are jeans acceptable? Do they have casual Fridays? Do they dress up when someone from corporate comes in?

It can be stressful thinking ahead because there is really no way of knowing this until you start the job, so air on the side of caution and start on the more professional side to show you genuinely care about the position.

At many companies, sneakers can be considered business casual. If you wear a professional outfit and pair it with a neutral colored, clean sneaker, you will be comfortable and able to walk around the office with no problem. Sambas, Air Forces or Vans are all good options. 

In my experience, I found success with wearing fashionable kitten heels but bringing my sneakers in my bag if I was shadowing someone in the field.

Trust the classics

Button-down shirts are a tried-and-true classic for professional outfits. They can be layered with a sweater, tucked into jeans, paired with a tie or worn with a skirt. These have been worn as fashion staples for decades, but they can get boring quick. Luckily, you can find them in fun colors and patterns, such as pink or polka dots. 

You can also add a belt around the middle to accentuate your waist while adding a fun accessory. Some brands are even putting a spin on the traditional button-down, like this one from ASOS with zippers, this with a wrap waist or this one with a ruffle collar.

Need them ASAP?

Destiny Mall features numerous stores that cater to finding business casual staples, shoes and accessories, including DSW, Famous Footwear, H&M, Loft, Macy’s, Old Navy, T.J. Maxx and White House Black Market. There are also stores that you might not immediately think of when shopping for business casual, but have great pieces, such as Hollister or Pacsun.

Syracuse University offers daily buses from College Place to Destiny Mall. The Sy 50 costs $1.00 each way but is cheaper than gas or an Uber.

If you find the perfect outfit you will feel more confident, excited and prepared to start a new opportunity. It is important to find clothes that you don’t have to think about or adjust once you get to the office so you can focus on meeting new people and your overall performance.

Starting your job overdressed or more professional is best so the company knows you’re ready for the job and excited to start.