Classic Woven Blazer ($35) // Round Collar Blouse ($20) // Classic Pencil Skirt ($16)
I hear frequently from young professionals who tell me that they can’t afford professional clothing. I understand why they feel this way–most of the work-appropriate attire on the market is pricey–but their perceptions is inaccurate. This outfit from Forever21 is just over $70, and it’s perfectly appropriate for a job interview or a professional office.
When buying inexpensive suit pieces, I suggest sticking with dark colors. The darker hues are like camouflage for cheaper fabrics. The cut on this blazer is great, the blouse is a good basic, and the skirt is a simple choice. (I know it looks a bit short on the model, but it’s 22.5 inches, one inch shorter than J.Crew.)
Forever21 has a wide selection of inexpensive blazers. I love this collarless woven blazer in deep teal. They also offer a single button blazer in three shades. I do love a lightly puffed sleeve, so this jacket is right up my alley. And if you need something to wear over cocktail attire, this tuxedo-style jacket is a good option.
This must be how the undergrads on my campus end up heading to networking events looking like they’re on the set of a stag film set in an office. This outfit could be appropriate or inappropriate based on the fit and if you’re going with Forever 21 for a professional setting, it’s probably best to go up a size.