The Well-Dressed Scholar

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Juliuana Battle
A computer-generated graphic featuring multiple images of figures in business professional and business casual attire.

Dressing professionally as a college student is essential for networking events, internships, presentations, and job interviews, but it doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming.

Start with the basics

Building a business casual wardrobe starts with versatile staples like a well-fitted blazer in classic colors such as black, navy, or beige, which can instantly elevate an outfit when paired with a simple blouse or a structured button-down shirt.

For bottoms, tailored pants, ankle trousers, or pencil skirts create a polished look, while knit sweaters and cardigans add a professional yet comfortable touch. Business casual footwear includes loafers, ballet flats, or block heels in neutral shades for versatility. When stepping into more formal settings, a classic suit—whether a blazer paired with matching dress pants or a sheath dress with a coordinating jacket—is a must-have.

Closed-toe shoes, such as pointed-toe pumps or elegant flats, complete the professional look. Accessories should be kept minimal with delicate jewelry, a structured handbag, and a sleek belt to pull an outfit together.

Keep your budget in mind

Shopping for professional attire on a budget is possible by thrifting at stores like Goodwill, Plato’s Closet, or online resale platforms such as Poshmark and ThredUp, where high-quality blazers and dress pants can be found at a fraction of retail prices. Stores like H&M, Zara, and Target offer affordable yet stylish business casual options, while brands like Banana Republic, Express, and Ann Taylor have frequent sales on professional staples.

Put it all together

To maintain a polished appearance, wrinkle-free fabrics, well-groomed hairstyles—such as sleek buns, ponytails, or neatly styled natural hair—and minimal makeup with neutral tones ensure a put-together look. By curating a wardrobe with timeless and versatile pieces, college students can confidently dress for success in any professional or business casual setting without breaking the bank.

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About the author

Blog author Juliuana has straight dark hair and is wearing a red and white collegiate sweater.

Juliuana Battle

Juliuana Battle is a psychology major at North Carolina Central University who is passionate about advocating for broken/underrepresented families, and women. She is currently working at ɫèAV as Campus Ambassador and recently completed a micro-internship with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team. She also has prior experience at Lassiter & Sperati PLLC as a Summer Intern. Juliuana is a member of the University Honors Program and National Black Law Students Association, a Crear Futuros Ambassador, and through these organizations, she has dedicated her time and service by volunteering at various community organizations and events. Outside of academics, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and line dancing. Her long-term goal is to become a domestic violence prosecutor who also focuses on criminal, family, and traffic law.