This is a Guest Post from Erin Flynn. If you would like to Guest Post contact me at info(at)fashionwithoutguilt.com. 
Life after college can be somewhat unpredictable. Especially when it comes to figuring out what the next step will be. On the other hand something a little more predictable is probably what you’re going through as a recent grad. If it’s anything like I felt coming out of college then you most certainly will relate to this.
Are you uncertain about your career choice (a.k.a the four years you spent “studying”)? Have you not quite figured out your personal style (does Forever21 count)? Are you experiencing a sense of freedom yet completely overwhelmed at the same time, and have you recently developed a hatred toward the most commonly asked question,”What do you do?”
If so, congratulations. You’re completely normal!
We can still hope for the day when throwing on a college sweatshirt and flip flops is once again acceptable fashion, but unless you’re a surfer or Van Wilder, transitioning your college wardrobe is just as crucial as finding a job. While some things will continue to be unpredictable, I can guarantee attending these three events won’t!
Three Events I Guarantee You Will Attend After College
Interview/Meeting: This outfit should scream young smart professional not 1980s business woman! Big shoulder pads should be left for the NFL.
Fashion Tip: Looking like a young professional doesn’t mean wearing a suit unless your dress code states, “You must wear a suit.” Instead choose separates that can work with other pieces in your wardrobe. This allows you to play with color and add personal style to corporates rather boring business attire. Remember, you want to stand out, not blend in!
Key Items: Printed Blouses, Colorful Draped or Detailed Pencil Skirts, Boyfriend Blazer, Classic Two-Button or One-Button Blazer, Pointed Heel Slingbacks, Oxford Heels, Light Colored Trouser
Welcome to your 20 somethings where having a LBD (little black dress) is just as crucial as attending a wedding with an open bar.
Wedding:
Fashion Tip: Choose a LBD that is appropriate in length. For most 20 somethings this entails finding a dress that falls a little above the knee. Accessorizing is essential! Whether it be a statement necklace, multiple bangels, or colored platforms add your personal style to the dress. The better you accessorize the less people will notice that it’s the same dress.
What Not to Wear: Avoid trendy LBD’s. The whole point is to get a lot of usage out of one dress. Leave the trendiness to your jewelry.
Key Items: Colored Platforms, Bangels, Statement Necklace
Baby Shower: After all the weddings then comes all the baby showers. Casual but cute outfits will get you through multiple events in your 20s, whether you’re excited to attend your 5th baby shower from sorority friends in the past two months or not.
Fashion Tip: Pants are perfectly acceptable but choose a trouser or colored khaki. If skirts or dresses are more up your alley choose a cotton day dress or casual a-line skirt.
What Not to Wear: Avoid pleated pants! I don’t care if they are popular; they are just wrong! Avoid jeans as well. They are too casual.
Key Items: Patterned Blouse, Flats, Chino or Khaki Pant, Trouser, Colorful Tunic, Cotton Day Dress, Casual Trench Coat
About Reality Chic: It’s Your Official (Unofficially) 20 Something Style Guide for Life After College. Transitioning from life after college into the real world can be hard enough for many of us Gen-Y ers, so instead of stressing out about what to wear let Erin Flynn help you transform your wardrobe from young to young professional, lose the Uggs and Northface, and give practical fashion tips for young and stylish 20 something women like yourself! After the B.S., graduate to New Style.
