Looking ahead to your first term at the Oregon State University College of Business, with so much to do and so much to get ready for and so much that’s incredibly exciting — there’s one thing you might not have thought of. And that is to pack business professional attire.

Before you recoil in utter horror or bear the salty burden of someone’s “I told you so” stare — or more critically, feel anxious about an unexpected shopping trip, let’s take a look at what this means, with examples and solutions.

It’s easy to assume you wouldn’t need business attire right away — but at the College of Business, opportunities often show up fast. We’ve talked about the many experiences you’ll have from classroom team presentations to career fairs. Being prepared can make all the difference in how you show up and how confident you feel.

College is full of unexpected moments: a guest speaker turns into a networking opportunity, a class pitch competition connects you with an employer, or a quick introduction at a career fair turns into a pop-up interview.

Instead of thinking of business attire as a requirement, think of it as a tool. It helps you present your best self and make a first impression long before you even say a word. Showing up in professional attire signals confidence, respect and readiness.

Having something appropriate to wear ensures you’re never scrambling at the last minute.

The good news? “Business professional” doesn’t have to mean stiff, boring, uncomfortable or expensive. In fact, there’s a lot of flexibility in how you define your professional style. Additionally, business professional attire is not about dressing masculine or feminine or traditional “business suit” — it’s about dressing with intention, confidence and respect for the setting, in a way that still feels like you.

Let’s break another common myth: there isn’t just one “right” way to dress professionally. Business professional can look different for everyone.

A very basic list of business professional attire can include:

• Blazers, button-down shirts or professional tops
• Slacks, khakis, skirts or dresses
• Closed-toe shoes, flats or dress shoes
• Simple, clean and polished accessories

Within those basics, there’s a lot of room for personal style. Your outfit can reflect your personality while still feeling professional and put-together. Colors, patterns and fits can reflect your personality while still maintaining a professional appearance.

Professional doesn’t mean changing who you are. It means presenting yourself with intention in a way that still feels authentic. And the very best professional outfit is one that makes you feel comfortable and confident.

One of the biggest barriers a student or family could face is cost. Like everything, professional clothing can be very expensive — but it does not have to be!

As you pack for the term, consider putting together one or two business professional outfits from what you already own. Even if you don’t use them right away, you’ll be glad you have them when an opportunity arises.

If you truly live life in vintage rock-band T-shirts and torn denim jeans (or some other mono-cultural fashion wormhole), and have nothing in your closet you imagine can be business professional, that’s where Benny’s Business Closet comes in.

Benny’s Business Closet is a free or low-cost resource that provides gently used professional clothing to students. The shop is run by College of Business design students who are ready to help you however they can. Whether you need a full outfit or just one key piece, it’s a great way to build your wardrobe without financial stress.

Using a resource like Benny’s Business Closet is practical (it's right on campus!) and sustainable, too. Supplied primarily by donations from our alumni, we're proud to have this store available to all OSU students when they need it, and reuse items that might head to landfills.

So pack that blazer — or that dress, or those slacks, or or whatever feels right for “business professional” you. And don’t forget to check out Benny’s Business Closet. Your future self will thank you when the right opportunity comes along, and you’re ready for it.