Week Of What I Wear To Work: How A Grad Student Dresses Smartly

As a grad student there are three things that inevitably influence my choice of dress:

1. If it's not on sale, forget it.
2. I don't get paid to sit through three hour lectures and live in the library, so comfort is paramount.
3. At this stage in the game, you have to look the part. Suits are slightly overkill, but looking polished and put together is of utmost importance.

Slim cut, dark wash jeans or dress pants with a touch of stretch are clean looking, but easy going. These Diesel Lowky Jeans ($167) are hot, but classy. With jeans, a tailored suit jacket or wool blazer ($235) looks smart over a plain white tee ($49).

Depending on where I plan to wind up after class, I choose between cute, no-fuss flats (for a date with the library) or classic pumps ($55) (for drinks with the girls). Jewelry stays simple with plain diamond studs ($195) and a pendant ($698). As for the rest of the accessories, a big, sturdy bag ($40) is a must for my books, and a scarf ($87) for cooler days is crucial. The outfit isn't complete without a classic trench ($225) to bring it all together.