By Megan R. Elrath
Team Writer, ReFresh Your Step, LLC — Career Advisory & Strategy
At long last, the dull days of winter are giving way to blooming daffodils, longer days, and rising temperatures. As we enthusiastically welcome spring, we also turn our attention to spring cleaning, albeit less enthusiastically so. Just as our homes require a deep clean to refresh and renew our living environment, our professional wardrobes require an update to usher in the new season. As you prepare for spring, take stock of your professional wardrobe and ensure you have the foundational pieces needed to confidently conquer your career. Check out this list of 6 professional wardrobe basics to help you sail into spring.
Pumps. As you examine your wardrobe, take some time to assess your professional shoe collection. Purge or repair heels that have worn through or have amassed one too many scuff marks. For spring, consider acquiring a neutral pump for everyday wear and a cute floral heel to add a punch of color to your look. We love this neutral pump from Aerosoles and this floral-patterned ankle-strap heel by Anne Klein.
Bottoms. We all fluctuate in size from time to time, so be kind to yourself as you sort through your assortment of pants and skirts. Remember that taking the time to eliminate pieces that no longer fit and flatter you will save you time as you prepare for each work day. As you transition into warmer temperatures, try on lighter fabrics in your favorite cut and style. J.Crew’s Edie Trousers’ mid-weight fabric works well for transitioning from winter to spring. If you prefer skirts, LOFT carries a fun tie-waist style in a variety of patterns and colors, like this colorful mosaic print.
Dresses. What could possibly be easier than slipping into one gorgeous dress, adding an accessory or two, and walking out the door? We adore dresses for spring. Tahari ASL’s new line of dresses are hitting the mark perfectly, including with this effortlessly chic floral print. The Limited’s spring line features fabulous options for daytime dresses that work for client meetings and all-day brainstorming sessions, like this on-trend bell-sleeved floral print. Banana Republic’s collection of sheath dresses will help you tap into your confidence during those after-hours dinners. We love this LBD with a stylish bow-neck.
Tops. Bring the vibrant colors of spring to your wardrobe while maintaining your professional look. As you stock away your winter sweaters and welcome your lightweight tops back into your rotation, take the time to make sure that each piece you retain makes you feel confident and alive. If you add some tops to your wardrobe this season, check out The Limited and LOFT for some stylish and colorful options.
Accessories. If the cold weather lingers but your heart tells you to embrace spring, add some festive accessories to your sweater and pant combinations. Our go-to accessories spot is Charming Charlie. We love the ability to shop by color, especially as we embrace the bright hues of spring.
Suits. If your New Years Resolution included embarking on a career change, you may be preparing for interviews as spring approaches. While many workplaces have adopted a more casual approach to in-office dressing, suits remain the gold standard for interviewing. If you plan to stick with your traditional black suit, you could add a pastel blouse or a tasteful floral scarf to lighten up your look. Ann Taylor’s collection of suiting separates allows you to customize your suit look and gives you the polish you need to nail your next interview.
Now that you’ve stocked your professional wardrobe with the basics you need for a stylish spring, download a wardrobe planning app to help you catalog your closet and help you save time planning your weekly outfits-of-the-day. Stylebook and ClosetSpace are two well-reviewed apps that help you curate your closet and visualize your outfit combinations before you even take them off their hangers.
With your closet stocked, organized, and cataloged, step into spring with the confidence you need to crush your career goals.
Members: Don’t forget to check out Member Perks the next time you need to shop for something. There are some great opportunities for IAW Members to save with online discounts, in-store coupons and hot deals.
About the author:
Megan R. Elrath, CPRW, is a leading resume writer with ReFresh Your Step. She is also a Career Services Professional for the University of Georgia. For more information about Refresh Your Step, please visit refreshyourstep.com.
