Summer is coming up and that means many students will be starting internships and jobs in professional office settings. Depending on your style, you can opt out of wearing pants to work and wear nice dresses instead. Michelle Obama generally wears dresses more than pants, and pulls it off well. This is also what I prefer to do since it’s weather appropriate and more feminine. It also makes it much easier to transition from work to a party.

1. Black pants (make sure they are well tailored)

2. Grey pants

3. Khaki pants

4. Blazer (black is versatile)

5. White dress shirt (this is an essential item you will have for years)

6. Blouse (this is something most women will have in their closet)

7. Sheath dress (try Banana Republic, theirs fit really well)

8. Summer dress (make sure it is also appropriate for work. Strapless works fine with a cardigan or blazer over it)

9. Cardigan (make it long so you can wear it over a dress and belt it

10. Belt (you can wear it over the cardigan and dress to create a new look)

11. Flats (try White House Black Market outlets for an affordable pair)

12. Heels (no peep-toes, something comfortable and professional)

13. Tights (it’s not going to be warm all summer, plus some offices are air conditioned)

14. Bag (leather is great, but if you can’t afford that, just go for something timeless. This is another thing that you probably own already)

15. Pearls (they might remind you of your grandmother, but they’re classy and go with just about everything)