<p>I’ve never heard that @ monochrome dressing reads expensive. I think it would look odd. I agree that gray is the perfect color for a suit, maybe with a white or cream blouse if you want to go very conservative. </p>
<p>I too like dark grey pantsuits, but I’d wear a colorful bag or shoes. </p>
<p>I had a full day of shopping with a friend and her daughter, who will be applying to grad schools soon. we found the perfect suit for her, but she freaked (exaggerating, but she just wouldn’t buy it). She could not see herself in such “grown up clothes”. Up to the point of sale, she was “with” me in terms of how to dress for interviews, and to mix and match, colors, etc. She did buy a great pencil skirt in black, with some detail down side.</p>
<p>I thought my son was the most difficult, but I learned today. When he left college for a “real” job in Cambridge, we had an appointment with a delightful Nordstom’s saleswoman. we had put aside a Boss suit for him (size 28, hard to get), and lots of pants and shirts. Within an hour, she had the dressmaker join them. For years after, she would update his wardrobe. This is sounding like an ad for Nordstrom’s, but they do keep sizes on file, hem for free, and shipping across country cost $10.00</p>
<p>Bookworm, I never had to pay for shipping at Nordstrom. Maybe if I needed something shipped next day, then if have to pay. </p>
<p>Forgot to mention one of the obvious choices - Zara! They carry up to date styles that fit well into a professional wardrobe.</p>