The adult starter kit: All the staples you need to officially grow up

 By 
Noelle Sciacca
 on 
The adult starter kit: All the staples you need to officially grow up
Credit: Mashable Composite/Lili Sams, TiSanti/Getty Images

Fall calls for transition. Whether you're off to college, graduating with honors or avoiding the real world with your fourth degree, adulthood is around the corner.

Just as your apartment outgrows its Ikea furniture and mismatched serving plates, your fashion, beauty and grooming games should be upgraded as well.

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No need to throw everything out and start from scratch. Pepper in a few key items to instantly elevate your look. Invest in these key items to push you forward into a new mature world and beyond.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Run the world (girls):

1. You've got grownup in the bag.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Kate Spade, $250.60

Canvas totes are ideal for grocery shopping and trips to the bookstore but not for job interviews. A proper bag is worth the investment. Look for a timeless structured shape spacious enough for your portfolio and all the other odd and ends you needs throughout the day.

A two-toned satchel is perfect for everyday use. Carry it into the boardroom by the top handles or slung across your body during weekend errands.

2. Get in the trenches.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Uniqlo, $129.90

There's something about a classic khaki trench that says, "I'm a grown up. Take me seriously."

Not only will this Uniqlo topper help you transition into maturity but its removable lining allows you to move seamlessly between seasons.

3. Don't skirt the issue.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Oasis, $62

A pencil skirt is the perfect item to round out a woman's wardrobe. The timeless silhouette combined with a subtle abstract print and slight front slit make this ideal for work and play.

Integrate personal style by matching with a graphic top in a complementing color.

4. You're a well-heeled woman.

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Sam Edelman, $100

Invest in a pair of neutral heels that matches with basically everything in your closet. This pointy-toe slingback is both professional and playful, and the height is perfect for staying on your toes while you run the world.

5. Work it out.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Nux, $44

It's OK to hold onto that Backstreet Boys concert tee. But reserve it for bed time and stop wearing it to the gym. You're a grownup now and that means legit workout clothes.

This is as much about function as it is about fashion. Garments designed specifically for activewear are breathable, wick away moisture and often have hidden pockets for your credit card and keys. If you favor outdoor activities, look for clothing with reflective strips to alert cars and other fitness fans that you're out there getting your sweat on. Safety first.

6. Lookin' fine.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Coordinates, $212

Plastic bangles and friendship bracelets have their place, but now is the time in life to invest in a special piece of fine jewelry.

Items that have meaning are all the more valuable. Think of this like you would a tattoo. Buy a necklace with the initials of a loved one or a ring engraved with an inspirational motto.

Select an exact geographical location on a map and Coordinates will etch its longitude and latitude on a custom accessory. Be it your childhood home or favorite city in the world, this is a unique way to carry that place with you into the next phase of your life.

7. Beauty regime

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

First Aid Beauty, $30

By now you know better than to fall asleep with your makeup on or let your best friend wax your eyebrows. It's time to go the extra mile and incorporate preventative products into your beauty regime.

It's never too early to slather on creams that fight fine lines and wrinkles. It's also key to maintain your youthful skin with delicate peels and exfoliants. This mask from First Aid Beauty uses red clay to draw out impurities, eliminating clogged pores and improving your skin's texture.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Big man off campus:

Mashable Composite/ Lili Sams

1. In brief.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Ben Minkoff Eton briefcase, $295

Trade in those beer-drenched backpacks and add this sleek briefcase to your wardrobe. An ergonomic design with real leather and an included strap, it's perfect for all the official documents you'll be carrying and that 13-inch laptop. Possibly the best part is its price tag.

2. Hump day.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Uniqlo, $59.90

It's almost the weekend but you still have two more days to go. Get an added boost throughout the office with this camel coat from Uniqlo. A staple in any man's closet, dress it up as an overcoat with your suits, or simply with a heather grey sweater and jeans on the weekend. It's an essential piece as versatile as your weekend getaways.

3. You wear the pants.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Cos, $135

The more sophisticated brother to H&M, Cos brings together the best basics one would ever need in their closets. These wool trousers were created with slightly twisted fabrics which reduce wrinkles. Because ain't nobody got time for the dry cleaners.

4. Stepping ahead.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Cole Haan, $198

Can't wear your Nikes to the office? Do the next best thing with these Cole Haan wingtips, which have Nike technology in every sole. Perfect for when you're running to a meeting -- or running away from one.

5. Nothing but knit.

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1901, $39.50

Knit ties are an easy go-to when deciding what tie to wear with your suit. Easy to tie (they're made of silk) and perfect in a single color, mix and match with either a printed shirt or a solid color. Either way, you're good.

6. Raise the bar.

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The Tie Bar, $39.50

As you have read, a tie bar is only good if you know how to wear one. To showcase your own prowess, always clip it between the third and fourth buttons on your shirt. As a bonus, ensure the tie bar never exceeds or is even the entire width of the tie. It should only go halfway.

7. Wax on, wax off.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Layrite, $15

You want to slick back your hair but you hate the crust from gel, the greasy residue of pomades and the thickness of clay. Layrite solves these problems. The original formula is probably the strongest hold we've ever used (and we also strangely dig the scent) but it washes out easily like gel. It's probably the best hair product we've come across -- and that's not an exaggeration.

8. Blazer up.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

JCrew, $298

Now that you know all about how to wear a blazer, it's time to find one that's classic and versatile enough for every one of your shirts and ties. Try this one from J.Crew in navy -- it will dress up a look instantly and spruce a casual weekend.

Mashable composites: Lili Sams, TiSanti/Getty Images

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