Business casual - building a wardrobe?

L

lincnkel

Cathlete
Hi everyone! I've been off the boards for awhile while in the middle of a "life change". I've found a new job that starts next Wednesday and need help in planning a wardrobe. The short of it: I've been able to wear jeans to work for the past 5 years and now will have to wear business casual. I went shopping last night and it was, well, not fun. I have no idea where to start!

Can someone help?

THANK YOU!! I'm off today (YES!) and plan on getting caught up on what's been going on around here. :)
 
Try Ann Taylor Loft. Their target is the business casual woman (not kiddie sytles). Very professional, yet workable for other purposes. The prices are good and the clothes fit nicely, as well.
 
I was about to suggest the same thing!! I discovered ATL last year and haven't looked back... :p }(
 
I get almost all of my work clothes from Old Navy b/c I spend so much on exercise clothes I have to cut costs somewhere. Mostly pants or cropped pants & button down shirts--long sleeve, short sleeve & sleeveless.

I also get some stuff from Victoria's Secret--mostly pants b/c the cut is better for me (slimmer in the hips).

In the summer I have a bit more variety--cute little dresses, or sleeveless blouses w/a skirt.

Shoes: low heeled boots in the winter, sandals in the summer.

Hope this helps--good luck w/the new job & happy shopping! :)
 
Thanks, Ladies!! There is an Ann Taylor Loft about 30 minutes from me. I should have time to go there this weekend. Hopefully I will be able to report back with good news! And I will try Old Navy tonight. :)
 
I really like Banana Republic and BCBG. Ann Taylor and Old Navy which were already recommended are great choices also. For great fitting pants, try Express- I really like the Editor fit. :)
 
I don't envy you. Business casual is that middle category that always seems to elude me. Fortunately, I only have to deal with it on Fridays. Khakis and a sweater set? In any event, you can't go wrong with a professional, tailored look. It's always okay to wear "business" on "business casual" day.

ETA: Ame, I think those suits you buy at Ann Taylor are more "business" than "business casual". ;)
 
Another vote for Express and the "editor" pants. I absolutely LOVE the "Editors." They are the only dressy-casual pants I wear!

Aimee
 
LOL, have I mentioned NO ONE ELSE IN THE OFFICE WEARS SUITS?!? So I don't either. I just wear the pants and a sweater. :p :+ :7

But at my internship, the suits were good. And I love having them-- I wear them on days we have all-office meetings. Just because they're so miserable I might as well look nice! :p :D

And LOL, I'm currently wearing pants I bought years ago from the Bass outlet for $20 and an Eddie Bauer sweatshirt sweater thing and clogs. So much for the suits in my closet! ;-)

ETA: There is no way no how not ever will my butt fit into ON pants or VS pants. Good for you who can do it... and please don't take offense when I call you "bird legs" :p and hussle my "bottom heavy" self outta here }( :7
 
Here's another vote for Ann Taylor Loft! I used to frequent Ann Taylor but the clothes were a little too formal for me. ATL is perfect! Have fun shopping!!
Paula
 
I also like ATL but I occasionally will go to New York & Company for less expensive but still nice stuff. They also have great coupons if you sign up on their website. ~$25 off $75 kinda of deals.
 
Just spent 300.00 at AT loft, love that store.

My suggestions is to look for basics for the bottoms, get pants in black, navy, khaki, and white for summer. Then you can go a bit stylish for tops, but you will have the colors to go. The pinstripe casual pants that are out are great, comfy and somewhat dressy, just a nice look.
 
Another vote for Banana Republic here!

Most of my wardrobe (when I'm not pregnant) comes from there. Their fit is consistent across seasons, and their clothes always look polished, not "kiddy".

I also have to second the recommendation for Express pants. Editor doesn't work for me based on my shape, but they have a wide leg fit that I can't live without!
 
Isn't Banana Republic really pricey. We had one open here at Christmas I the prices were really high. I too like New York and company, and Khols. TJ MAx, and Gordmans for a bit more trendy look. I like VS pants, they are actually quite classy, but not over dressed. Don't overlook casual skirts for summer, fun, look nice, and comfy.

Shoes, I love Sketchers, and also have a dressier pair of Merril's I really like.
 
I wanted to give a quick "thank you" to all of those that gave me suggestions!! Shopping was a tad depressing as the 10 lbs that I've gained back have pushed me back to "in between sizes". I found some fantastic *goal* outfits at Dillards, ATL and Express. For now, I purchased some less expensive items at Penneys, Target and a consignment shop. Now to get cracking at the 10 lbs so I can REALLY go shopping!!!
 
>I wanted to give a quick "thank you" to all of those that
>gave me suggestions!! Shopping was a tad depressing as the 10
>lbs that I've gained back have pushed me back to "in between
>sizes". I found some fantastic *goal* outfits at Dillards,
>ATL and Express. For now, I purchased some less expensive
>items at Penneys, Target and a consignment shop. Now to get
>cracking at the 10 lbs so I can REALLY go shopping!!!
>
>
Another vote for Kohls I have long arms and nothing fits at ATL. I went to buy a coat and the sleeves were half way up my arm. I love Express just have to watch my sleeves. How about Burlington Coat Factory or TJMAXX. I just bought a few Business Casual Outfits and reasonable prices. OOOHHH and you must check out Purses.

Good Luck when you get out again.

beth6395

"You didn't pause your dvd and go make popcorn did ya"
-Cathe Friedrich

http://www.picturetrail.com/juicyfruities2002
 
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