So you’ve cleaned out the closet and gotten rid of everything that doesn’t fit or won’t work or just should never ever be worn in public by anyone ever again, amen. And you’ve made a list, sort of, except that you’re still not sure what exactly you should be putting on every morning when you leave the house because it’s been a long time since you worked in a casual office and you’re still not sure you can pull together a look that is casual and work appropriate at the same time?

How about some suggestions? As you sort through your closet, consider how many of the following you have, and what you might need. Keep your own personal style in mind as you make up your list, but don’t be afraid to try new things on. And don’t ever buy ANYTHING that doesn’t fit your body, your budget, and your lifestyle. Please.

Tops
White shirt (menswear shirts are classic, but look for other alternatives, like a tunic or a sleeveless sweater)

Tops that are NOT tees (cotton or jersey or eyelet, for example)

Cardigan (for chilly office buildings and movie theaters and those days that are just not hot)

Really nice tees (something you would NOT wear to work in the garden)

Bottoms

Mid-rise, dark-rinse jeans

Pants that are NOT jeans (wool trousers or chinos or corduroys — whatever works for you)

Knee-length neutral skirt

Day dress in a neutral color (navy, black, brown — wrap dresses are good, as are shirtdresses)

Outerwear

Trench coat

Winter coat that is NOT a parka (if you live where it is cold, you need a nice tailored coat)

Casual jacket (tailored jean jacket, for example)

All pieces pictured here available at Boden USA.