Balancing my professional style with my own personal style is a little tough for me. My wardrobe is conservative to begin with, but I’m having trouble pulling off a chic look for the office, especially in the summer — having invested the majority of my budget in cable-knit sweater and blazers. But how different should your 8 to 5 look be from your everyday?

I could never be a glamazon and I’m too old-school to pull off bohemian or even trendy. I want my style to portray a sense of classic chic. But that is usually translated in throwing on a pair of black trousers or skirt, pairing it with whatever printed silk top I grab first, and running out the door.

Boring.

For a more defined image, I have some goals I’m setting for myself, while managing to stay within a budget. For example, I want to try and visit more consignment shops to pick up vintage-y, unique items. I also want to work in more trendy pieces to update my look a bit.

For those with no idea on how to manage their style, I think Tim Gunn’s guidelines are perfect for any professional woman in or out of the office. Below I’ve highlighted my faves from Tim’s list.

1. Basic black dress. My favorite on THE LIST, I say you should have one for every season, in both casual and more formal fabrics. They go with anything and each time you wear the same little black dress, you can change up your look with different shoes and accessories. Absolutely essential.

2. Trench coat. Becoming somewhat of a trend recently, trench coats are always a classic wardrobe staple. I hate to see girls ruin their adorable outfits by throwing on a frumpy old jacket or North Face.

3. Blazer. A tailored blazer can instantly pull together any outfit. Look for a great fit that isn’t too tight, and please stay away from shoulder pads.

4. Day dress. Jersey dresses are quite possibly the greatest clothing invention of all time. This wash and wear style can be balled up in the corner of your closet for weeks and still look beautiful once you throw it on. Plus, by throwing on a simple and easy dress, you eliminate having to coordinate and layer and whatever else you do to style yourself. It’s too easy to not do.

5. Cashmere sweater. A little more expensive, but totally worth it. Investing in a couple of these adds a little indulgence to your wardrobe and if you shop smart, there’s no reason you can’t find a great one that fits in your budget.

Now for some of my own additions to THE LIST…

1. Dark boot-cut jeans. This cut provides the simple lines needed to flatter any shape or size. And a dark wash (sans any bling on the pockets or holes in the knees) makes you look polished even on the weekends.

2. Cardigans. From twinsets to bright printed sweaters, cardigans help layer your look and help you adapt from the 90-degree heat indoors to your 60-degree office indoors.

3. Flats. With heels replacing my everyday footwear, I find myself straying away from my beloved skimmers and driving mocs, but there are definitely ways you can work them into your professional wardrobe. So do it.

4. Pops of color. I have a hard time pulling this off, but I love seeing a navy or black outfit offset by Kelly green shoes or a bright red handbag. It’s delicious.

What are you own office versus personal style tips?