Business casual

I have recently noticed that my style is slowly changing. I have to dress "nice" for class [if we aren't wearing scrubs] and I will also have to dress business casual for most of my clinicals that start in 5 months [holy cow I might have a heart attack]. When I am shopping I find myself migrating towards clothes that are business casual yet still fun and age appropriate. I am loving pieces that can be made conservative during the day but dressed up at night if I go straight from school to dinner with my friends. It is important that I still embrace my style and love of clothes even though they have to be conservative for my profession. Also, sad but true, being a young-ish female in a mostly male profession, we have to be very careful about what we wear. People already look at me and tell me I am "too young to be a PA" or assume that because I am blonde that I'm not competent [yes, I've had this remark]. So, I want my wardrobe to reflect my style while also portraying a professional, competent clinician.

The first look I am LOVING right now is high-waisted pants. These are so flattering and I always feel more comfortable when my legs are covered in clinic. The look can be put together with a simple top tucked in.

 Dresses with sleeves, both long and short-sleeved, are elegant and classic. Throw on flats in the spring/fall and boots with tights in the winter and you are set! Dresses never go out of style and make you feel feminine in any setting. I am loving the blazer over dress look [I will have to try that this fall!].

 Skirts are the classic "business casual" look for females. I love stepping out of the plain black skirt box and adding some color, whether solid or a fun pattern. Skirts look super cute with flats, which I will be wearing 100% of the time. Here are a few of my favorite looks:

Where are your favorite places to shop for business casual clothes? J Crew is my go-to [I could buy the whole store if I could!].