When it comes to work, making sure your outfit fits the dress code is incredibly important. Overdressing can make it hard to fit in with your coworkers and underdressing can make it seem like you don’t care about your job or the company culture. When in doubt, you should always ask your supervisor, but here are a few tips to help you make a decision, regardless of how casual or formal your workplace is.
Cover Up
When you are at work, you need to cover up. Not only is showing too much skin unprofessional, it looks sloppy and it can make you very uncomfortable if the AC is going. If your workplace allows shorts, they should reach the top of your knee. Your pants should fit well and you should make sure that they don’t show off your underwear. For women, if you are wearing a skirt or dress, make sure that it isn’t too tight and that it reaches past your fingertips. Some places may say that they need to reach your knees, so check your employee handbook. While sandals may be appropriate, flip-flops are probably a little too casual.
Wear Your Fit
There is something to be said for clothes that fit well. They look good, but they also help you feel good. Feeling good about how you look has been proven to improve your performance, so dressing nicely for work will help you get more done. For women, it is important that your clothes fit your body type while still looking flattering. Pencil skirts tend to be viewed as the most professional skirt, but they don’t work for everyone. Instead, choose something tailored that is flattering. For men, it is important that your clothing is also tailored properly and that you choose the right styles. When choosing an undershirt, make sure you choose one that fits properly. Undershirts that aren’t fitted will add weight to your appearance and make you look sloppy.
Work Your Neutrals
There is nothing wrong with wearing bright and fun colors, but in most workplace settings too much can be viewed as distracting and unprofessional. In many cases, it’s best to stick to neutrals and let your accessories provide a pop of color. However, don’t feel like you’re limited to black and white. Different shades of navy, brown, taupe, and gray are other fun neutral colors to experiment with. More recently, shades of olive green, pink, and dusty lavenders have made their way into the neutral family too.
Accessorize Smart
While accessories are an easy way to pull an outfit together, adding too many can start to look trashy. Make sure that your accessories fit your workplace. Shoes, for both men and women, can be a fun way to express your personality and style, but anything including too many straps, ties, or tassels is best left at home in lieu of a more professional look like a pointed-toe heel or finely constructed loafer. When it comes to a woman’s handbag and a man’s briefcases, stick to the faux leather or suede look. For women, jewelry can add a pop of color to your outfit, but make sure that it isn’t too large or clunky. For men, your tie can reflect your personality and be a great talking point, but make sure you stay away from overly tacky ties.
Your fashion and personality don’t have to suffer when working in the professional world. Just keep in mind these few simple tricks to make sure you’re always projecting the polished look you want. Doing so will show that you respect your employers and their business, and it’ll quickly lead you down the road of dressing for success.