Workplace Wardrobe

If you are making the switch from freelancing at home to a 9-to-5 office job, or are embarking on a new career entirely, you may have to change your look for your new work environment. How do you do it without breaking the bank, or causing your closets to explode? It turns out that more outfits can be made from the contents of your bedroom than you think. Making small changes like adding accessories or pairing something with a different jacket can give you a whole new look.

St. Louis Post-Dispatch starts out with two dresses, four pairs of pants and one skirt as the basis for the new summer work wardrobe. With lots of images, they show you how to mix and match, how to segue from work to cocktail hour and even how to make the transition between seasons (You don’t need a separate line of clothing for each, though the fashion designers will tell you otherwise!). Over a month, they were able to use each item once a week.

If you’re following a strict budget, check out vintage or thrift stores for deals. Still, you will come across a pricey item at a boutique or department store that you can’t resist; make sure it is versatile and will go a long way before you splurge. Don’t be afraid to accessorize; it’s actually easy to significantly change your look with only a few pieces. What are your most versatile items of clothing? [St. Louis Post-Dispatch]