Working girls need wardrobes that work. And if you're graduating into a new professional world soon, then it pays to be prepared. Those ripped jeans and faded hoodies will have to wait for the weekends. It's time to leave those crazy collegiate clothes behind and start creating a whole new style that does the job but still reflects your own unique personality.

Shop for essentials first. You can always get "creative" later with a few splurges, after you check out the dress code of your co-workers (and after your first pay raise). Here's a shopping list of the bare basics to get you started:

—A good suit. Suits have indeed made tremendous strides in fashion circles in recent years. The "matchy matchy" look is passe, but a quality well-fitting skirt suit or pantsuit is still a good place to start. Pick your favorite dark neutral in a classic silhouette. Black or navy is a safe choice. You can always take apart the pieces and mix and match them with other items in your closet to create many more outfits.

—A pair of black trousers. You may skip the suit look, but don't skip these. In fact, if you find pants that fit you perfectly, buy two pairs. These will be the workhorses of your wardrobe. You can always add other neutrals later. (And no, we're not talking about the leggings or yoga pants here.) Dark denim jeans, maybe.

—A black pencil skirt. Another basic that will extend your working wardrobe for years to come. Determine the length that looks best on you, and have a tailor work their magic if necessary.

—A white shirt. Another basic that doesn't have to be boring. There are plenty of new interpretations on the traditional button-down that may have been considered the working girl's staple years ago. Collect several versions of this essential. You'll always be able to put together a feel-good work look.

—A print blouse. From florals to abstracts, this item will add some punch to other basics. Blouses can be instant fashion updates. The bow blouse is once again tying up the runways, but Victorian ruffles and high necks have also been reinvented. For summer, look for polka dots to make a major statement for work. These blouses can easily stand on their own, with or without a jacket.

—Tanks and T-shirts. These are essential for layering, especially in warmer months, when the office AC can be freezing. Colorful tanks and T-shirts can also change a look dramatically. Just be sure they pass the "see-through" test before you wear them to work. Transparency can be a good thing, but not in this case.

—A cardigan sweater. The cardigan "twin-set" is a working girl's classic, but in lightweight longer versions, it can double as a jacket that slips over tanks, tees and even blouses. The sweater "vest" is another trendy way to beat the heat this summer, but still look professional. Basic black is a must, but this is a great item to buy in multiples of your favorite colors.

—A classic dress. The sheath or shift dress continues to be a winner at the office. It's easy to dress up with a blazer or dress down with a cardigan. In prints or solids, this style is easy one-step dressing. The shirtdress is another professional dress pick. Avoid the "cocktail" dress look at work; save that for the holiday office party.

—A trench coat. This classic may be one of the most versatile items in your work wardrobe. You can wear it over everything...from trousers/skirts and blouse combos to shift dresses. It's not just for rainy days anymore. Choose one in a neutral color for more mileage.

—A great handbag and pair of shoes. Don't skimp on these accessories. Buy the best you can afford. Choose a roomy satchel or top-handle bag with shoulder straps in a neutral color. Make sure you can fit all your electronics, makeup, wallet, etc. in it.

Ditto for shoes. Well-made work shoes should carry you through the day in style...and comfort. A mid-heel mule or pump will keep you from teetering on the brink of stiletto disaster. You can always stash a pair of high heels in your bag for happy hour.

SET IMAGE)smo051016adAP.jpg(END IMAGE)(SET CAPTION)The classic trench is a must-have basic for the working wardrobe. Liz Claiborne's jewel blue trench at JC Penney's.(www.jcp.com).(END CAPTION)

To find out more about Sharon Mosley, and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.