Business Class

Earlier this week, Devon C. asked, "I have a conference coming up where the dress is strictly business attire. I'm a college student and I just can't make myself buy another button-down shirt with a traditional collar. Any advice on alternatives?"

I happen to like a classic white oxford, but even so, I totally understand the impulse to shake things up. J. Crew has a gorgeous crepe de chine blouse that would work even in a really conservative setting. The black banding on the collar and cuffs gives it a chic spin, though it's not so in-your-face fashiony that anyone would have a hard time taking you seriously. It would look great with narrow, not-too-tight black trousers and basically any kind of simple black shoe (flat, boot, low-to-mid-height heel—all good). I also like Gap's twist on a men's-ish striped button-down, with a ruffled collar to give it more femininity. Again, I'd suggest paring down the rest of your outfit—when in doubt, go with an all-black bottom half. If you're stripe-averse, it also comes in solid white. I also think something like this dusty rose tulip-sleeved blouse from Banana Republic could work well, particularly if it's worn with a sharp fitted blazer on top.