Build around a small number of pieces that can move between business casual and client-facing settings. A few trousers, simple blouses or knit tops, one or two blazers, comfortable professional shoes, and a neutral coat usually give you more flexibility than buying full matching suits.

The safest benchmark is still the office and client context. This consulting interview dress-code guide is written for recruiting, but the principle carries over: aim for polished, conservative, and not distracting.

Once you start, watch what managers and senior associates in your office wear. Client expectations can differ a lot by industry, and the unwritten norm is easier to learn in person than from a universal list.

Spend more on fit, comfort, and shoes than on labels. Consulting means long days, travel, and a lot of sitting and walking. A wardrobe that looks good but is miserable after six hours will not survive.

Comfortable shoes. Seriously. I bought cute ones and regretted it after my first client week.

A blazer that works with 3-4 bottoms is way more useful than buying a bunch of full suits.

Office culture matters a lot. My office is much more business casual than I expected.