When just starting out in your career, it can be difficult to look like the J. Crew model you envision your new coworkers will look like. The truth is that it will take at least a couple of weeks to really learn the so-called uniform of your new workplace, but first, you will need to buy clothes for those first two weeks. During these first few days at a new job, your best bet is to think neutral and safe, but also something that you’re comfortable in.
Work attire should look put together, but you should also be able to feel confident and comfortable in what you’re wearing. “Women struggle with their body image,” shares Leah Wise, owner of CrashGal Couture, “and it’s worse when they feel they need to spend hundreds of dollars on clothes. This is not true!”
Wise’s company is a clothing line where everything is less than $100, making it both affordable and fashionable. “The truth is,” she notes, “everyone starts out small and works their way up.”
The struggles of just starting out
Starting a new career can be an exciting milestone and should be celebrated, but it often comes with feelings of anxiety, and most people tend to worry about their clothes. Women tend to have a harder time with business casual attire — not because they don’t understand, but because their male counterparts aren’t specific enough in the employee handbook.
Sometimes, this simply means no club attire, but in other places, it could mean no jeans and no shorts (even if the shorts are knee length and made from linen), making it more work appropriate. Business casual could also mean one thing for men and something else for women, which can make what to wear challenging for women just starting out in the workforce.
For many individuals just entering the professional world, financial resources are often limited, and as they navigate the expenses of starting a new career, investing in a professional wardrobe may not be a top priority. This can leave them with a limited selection of clothes that may not meet the expectations of the workplace.
In the face of these challenges, “women just starting out require support and affordable options that allow them to dress for success without breaking the bank,” affirms Leah Wise. Recognizing these struggles, her company aims to alleviate the financial and sartorial burdens often faced by individuals starting their careers. By offering stylish and affordable and professional attire, as well as everyday casual clothing options, her company helps empower women to confidently step into the workplace and make a lasting impression.
“We have a clear mission: to provide high-quality, stylish professional attire and casual wear at affordable prices,” Wise says. “We understand the importance of making a positive impression in the workplace without burdening your budget.”
With a strong dedication to affordability, Wise’s company carefully curates its collection, ensuring every item is priced under $100. From tailored blazers to elegant dresses and versatile separates, the store offers a wide range of options suitable for various work environments and styles.
While affordability is a priority, the clothing Wise creates for her brand also emphasizes quality and style. She and her team tirelessly source materials that are not only durable, but also trendy and fashion-forward with the goal of offering the latest looks without the steep price tags typically associated with designer labels. “You can look like a million bucks, without spending a million bucks,” advises Leah Wise.
By providing professional and everyday casual attire that is both stylish and affordable, Wise and her team are able to empower women who are just starting out in the workforce to dress for success. Their store aims to ensure that financial constraints don’t hinder individuals from showcasing their professionalism and personal style in the workplace.
Empowering all women in all phases of their life
Dressing well has a significant impact on one’s confidence and self-esteem, especially in a professional setting. By providing stylish and on-trend clothing options, Wise and her company help women who are just starting out feel their best and project a professional image. The carefully curated collection ensures that individuals can showcase their unique style while adhering to workplace expectations.
Moreover, Wise and her team understand that empowerment extends beyond just the clothes we wear, which is why they seek ways to create a supportive community for women by offering mentorship and resources. Through initiatives like the company’s Mentorship Group and business mentorship for Latina entrepreneurs, Wise provides guidance and support to help individuals navigate the early stages of their careers.
“As a lawyer and a Latina, it’s been my mission to help women overcome so many challenges and obstacles and hoops they have to go through,” shares Wise. “I just want all women to feel empowered to follow their dreams.”
By empowering women through the various organizations Wise has started — for example, Wise Women Foundation, and a Latina Feature Friday — she and her team help contribute to women’s personal and professional growth, encouraging them to take charge of their own success and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. With affordable and stylish attire as their armor, women who are just starting in the workforce can confidently tackle new challenges, make meaningful connections, and leave a lasting impression in their chosen fields.
Wise’s company is more than just a clothing line — it’s a destination for professionals seeking to look and feel their best without compromising their budget. Join the mission to redefine affordable fashion for women just starting out in corporate America, and let them be your go-to partner in dressing for success, no matter how casual the occasion may or may not be. Joining their movement of empowering all women — no matter what phase they are in their life — will allow you to experience the transformative power of affordable, stylish attire.
Wise’s company is just the beginning of this exciting journey, supporting you as you navigate the challenges and celebrating your accomplishments every step of the way. She and her team of experts will help you redefine what it means to start a career in style and confidence, all without worrying about breaking the bank.