Photos By Austin Garner | Words by Olivia Albers
The first day of work is crucial; it determines if you’re going to be the butt of every joke for the next six months or invited to sit at the ‘cool kid’ table during lunch. These first workday essentials will help you make a smooth transition into your new job.
MEN
- Button-Up Shirt: This go-to business casual staple is a versatile piece every man should own several of. Whether a solid color or patterned, a button-up shirt instantly makes a work outfit more professional.
- Dress Shoes: A good pair of dress shoes can go a long way. For a casual look, go for brown dress shoes. Yes, you can wear them with jeans, but not if they even remotely resemble True Religion- or Buckle-brand jeans. Don’t even think about it.
- Statement-Worthy Socks: Professional attire doesn’t have to mean boring — add some personality to your work attire with patterned socks. Pretty soon, you’ll be known as the guy with the fly socks around the office.
- Stylish Watch: Watches are cool again. Sure, you don’t actually need them to tell time anymore (thank you, smartphones), but they make a nice work ensemble look even classier.
- Coffee Mug: Coffee will get you through the workday. It’s as simple as that. Ditch the traditional cup and catch co-workers’ eyes with a novelty mug, instead.
WOMEN
- Sleek Blazer: A navy shrunken blazer is a must-have in any adult’s work wardrobe. It instantly makes any blouse more formal and can be worn with virtually any outfit.
- Statement Necklace: Add a bit of glitz to your everyday outfit with a statement necklace. Geometric gems stand out with a pop of color like this one from J.Crew Factory.
- Printed Photos: Break up plain walls by hanging up polaroids of your favorite memories. While you’re caught in a day full of meetings, your spontaneous laughing pics will keep you going. Social Print Studio is a great printing tool.
- Efficient Planner: Keep appointments and tasks on track with a well-organized day planner. From hourly to monthly layouts, pick one that fits all your scheduling needs. Stay busy and stylish with these patterns available at Rifle Paper Co.
- Lunchbox: This is not your childhood lunchbox. An adult job means getting rid of the highlighter-yellow tote you still have from middle school and opting for one that complements your personality. Bonus: saying ‘no’ to brown paper bags saves the environment.
- Colored Pens: Color-coding lovers unite. Use various colored pens to make notes stand out and add an element of organization. Stick pens in a glass jar to add a bit of personality to your workspace.
Material Credit: Blazer | Photo Printer | Journals | Pens
