bare bones work wardrobe.

[Deleted]

I am thinking about re-entering the workforce this summer and have no business clothes and no money So my question to you is:

Would you get fun pieces that you really like (plus boring staples)- like these:

bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=74570&pid=905211022&mlink=81921,5011387,6&clink=5011387

www.thelimited.com/detail/medallion-printed-top/4263296

Or would you ONLY get basic staples that wouldn't stand out as much when you wore it over and over again.

I'm probably going to get 5 tops and 2 pairs of black pants and rotate over and over again until the end of summer. Once paychecks start rolling in I will probably be able to buy an extra shirt or two per paycheck but when winter comes, hope I can just throw a cardigan over what I bought for the summer and call it a day (last year I never even put a jacket on so I'm not too worried about buying heaving winter work gear).

Thanks for your advice!

[fashionx]

The first top I'm not sure how business it is, but it depends on your workplace. I don't think most people consider halter tops, even if they do cover everything, very business-like. But again it depends on your work environment and dress code. The second top is really cute.

I do like prints but they can be more memorable than solids. If these pieces are going to last you a couple months of rotating, I would only buy 1 or 2 prints at the most, out of your 5 tops. Once you can buy a new shirt every couple weeks, adding in prints makes things easier. Keep in mind too if the print looks super summery, will you feel comfortable wearing it in the winter even if it's under a cardigan?

[Deleted]

OK good call on not getting anything too summery. is the second shirt too summery?

[fashionx]

IMO I think the color makes it workable into the fall/winter. I would wear it year-round.

[fashionx]

Oh and if you are shopping at The Limited I have an extra coupon code I'm not going to use. I can PM if you want it.

[Deleted]

Good I think it is cute! Thanks!

[karebear304]

I like the 2nd top but I'd do solids for the rest. I also wouldn't buy two pairs of black pants - why not do a black and a grey?

[Deleted]

I think black makes me look skinny

[maucat]

Then get black and dark grey. Two pairs of black pants makes it harder for people to tell when you're wearing the same pants, but it also looks like you're wearing the same pants every day.

[bimbi284]

I would stick to basics to start with and then add in more "fun" pieces later on when you can afford it.

Ditto doing one black and one other color (dark gray, like PP said) for pants.

[katiescarlett]

I love that first top, but it really depends where you're working. The second one looks more business-like. If you absolutely love them and will wear them once a week, go for it.

[Deleted]

May 27, 2012 15:39:11 GMT -5 @heyyall said:

I think black makes me look skinny

What about 2 different cuts black pants? One trouser and one skinny, ankle length?

[Deleted]

I would do 2 black slacks, 1 black or grey pencil skirt, and 3-4 tanks, a black cardigan, and 1 or 2 other shirts. 1 pair of black flats if you don't have any suitable shoes.

JC Penney actually has pretty nice work slacks for cheap. Skirts too. I would not buy tops or sweaters there--they fade too quick in my experience.

You should check Goodwill or ask your friends if they have anything you can have or borrow.