When you look the part, people are more receptive to your message and see you as an expert in your industry. So why then do we continue to push the envelope and dress more like fashion casualties then business professionals? These 5 tips are some must knows before heading to the office!
I’ve been going though all the questions and comments that have been emailed in from all of you. Thank you so much for writing in! One of the most common questions that I hear from you and my clients is: What is appropriate attire for the workplace? There really isn’t one common dress code that is set in stone. Some corporate cultures implement nominal codes stating “jeans only on Fridays and collared shirts during the week” -- and so we’re left free-floating through our closets trying to put together some ensemble that will fly by the radar. Keep in mind that these rules can and should be applied to you entrepreneurs and entreprenettes who are meeting with clients and networking.
Stop fretting about all the fashion details because this week we’re going to discuss some major fashion faux pas for the office.
1. Plunging necklines, exposed shoulders, midriff and too much leg: I recommend that skirt lengths start at no higher than an inch above the knee; this is also a very flattering spot for your skirt to hit because it will create the illusion of longer, leaner legs. Less is more! Less skin is much more chic.
2. Athletic Wear: Sneakers, yoga pants (even if they can be passed off as dress pants) and hoodies are a No No. Keep them in the locker -- not in the office.
3. Clothing that is too tight: There’s a big difference between club clothes and professional attire. I love transition clothes that take you from office to evening in a flash but here, at the office, we’re making a statement about our brains and not our bodies!
4. Jewellery that is loud, figuratively and literally: If it jingles or clinks, keep it out of the office! I love bangles and I’m the first one out in the evening with an arm-full of them but they are very distracting in the workplace.
5. Underwear lines: Gentlemen, there’s nothing attractive about looking like you’re wearing a diaper underneath your dress pants! Trade in your loose boxers for more fitted boxer briefs and trade in your t-shirts for mussel shirts. Ladies, check for severe underwear lines. Fill your drawers with seamless underwear and thongs. And please remember to always keep your bra straps covered. Exposed straps look cheap unless you’re filling beers at the local bar.
Final Words of Wisdom
Express your personality through the colors you select and the accessories you wear, it is extremely important to look professional in work settings. When we look the part, people are more receptive to our message!
