transitioning back into school

i am slowly transitioning back to in-person school and work after years of illness and being mostly at home. i still have a habit of wearing worn out, unprofessional but comfy clothes. i am trying to change my habits to make a better impression in a graduate program.

i have no idea what is considered normal or good to wear to school. i have tried looking for clothes to make/buy secondhand/borrow from family as a trial run, but i am not happy with anything so far.

does anyone have tips for any of the following:

  • finding out if clothing looks okay or is appropriate for a setting, without going up to people and asking them
  • developing style during a big life change and when you think everything looks bad
  • ways to find and test pieces to see if they fit your style and needs
  • organizing clothes for frequent wear
  • building a habit of coordinating clothes, accessorizing, and planning outfits, without getting overwhelmed?
thank you and i hope this question isn't too disorganized! happy to adjust it if needed
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