Welcome to the latest edition of Ask CF! Every two weeks, we select a reader fashion question and answer it here on the site. Do you have a specific fashion question for us? Scroll to the bottom of this post to learn how to send it our way!

I recently started grad school, and I feel like I’m in between fashion eras of my life. I don’t feel young enough to be wearing sweats and yoga pants every day or shopping at Forever 21, but I’m still a student and not making enough money to wear suits and shop at high end stores yet.

AI01

Do you have any suggestions on how to style outfits to feel older and more professional, while maintaining my budget and my remaining youth?

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Our Response

This transition might feel a little awkward, but personally, I think it’s great: It’s a time in your life where you’re discovering and defining your personal style. The key to working towards a more mature, professional look is to pick out a few pieces that embody the style you want to project, and then use those as a base for the rest of your outfits.

Lucky for us struggling college students, many inexpensive stores have built up their professional wardrobe stock. Stores like Target, Zara, and H&M have cute blazers, blouses, and skirts that are sophisticated and can even be work-appropriate. And even though Forever 21 has a bit of a reputation, they actually have a good selection of both basic items and dressier items that when paired well with other pieces, can look quite polished.

When it comes to retaining your youth, it’s easy to do so long as you consider your personal style. For example, if you’re a blazer girl, find one in a fun color or pattern that’ll keep you modern and fun. Or, if you like to accessorize, pick pieces that really speak to you and make them the focus of your outfit. Another way to keep yourself looking young, yet professional, is to opt for streamlined silhouettes with long, modern lines.