I’ve been asked so many times, “what’s appropriate to wear to work.” There are so many different answers to this question because it’s different for everyone. Not all jobs are created equal. Thankfully, I have worked in several environments that all have different dress codes, so I have experience with adequately dressing for the workplace. I’m going to share a few helpful tips on how to dress appropriately for your job.
Dress Code
The first tip is to know and understand your dress code. I don’t care where you work; there is always a dress code. You can usually find this with your HR department or with management. If the dress code is “wear whatever you want,” always make sure you’re reading, understanding, and following the code. I’ve had so many jobs such as restaurant server, bartender, retail manager, counselor, and software product manager. Each of these roles has had a particular dress code. By not following your company’s dress code your superiors might ask you to go home or get a talking-to.
First Impressions
The second style tip is that first impressions matter. Yes, unfortunately, this is true, people look at what you are wearing. I know this doesn’t seem fair, but the old saying “don’t judge a book by its cover,” just doesn’t happen. People always look at what you are wearing and by your appearance. I used to sell designer shoes at a big name department store, and customers will check out your style before choosing to buy from you. When you work off of commission, it’s essential that you get sales. If you’re a personal trainer, you probably want to wear some athletic wear. Your clients will trust you more if they think upon the first impression that you are serious about your role.
Personal Hygiene
This third tip is critical not only for yourself but your co-workers as well. Yes, it’s always wise to keep up on your hygiene, which means appropriately grooming at least to the point where you’re not impeding on someone else’s day. Believe it or not, unless you work for yourself, you want to people to be able to work for you. Personal hygiene includes but not limited to clean hair, no body odor, clean clothes, and limited smells. When asking several of my coworkers about this, most commented on they preferred to work with people who didn’t smell dirty.
Dress for Success
In this fourth tip, “dressing for success” can be interpreted depending on what your goals are in your current role. If your goal is to be promoted or taken seriously by your superiors, show them that you mean business. My recommendation is to dress for the role that you want. I can wear what I want at my current job, but I always try to dress professionally. This kind of goes along with my second tip (dress to impress), but what you wear speaks to people without you saying anything. Your work should be the thing that gets you that promotion, but what you wear will also tell people who you are as well.
Working from Home
My fifth tip doesn’t apply to everyone, but for those who work from home. I have this luxury at my current job, so I have some experience with this work environment. It seems like the dream to work from home in your pajamas, but after the first couple of days, it loses its luster. My recommendation for working from home is to be comfortable but still wearing everyday clothes. By getting ready for the day, it will not only make you feel better, but it will keep your motivation going.
Hopefully, these tips are helpful the next time you’re getting ready for work. My very last piece of advice is if you ever question whether you should wear something to work or not, lean on the safe side. You can always ask your superiors to get their thoughts on the outfit in question. Do you have any advice for what to wear for work? Please leave a comment on what helps you determine the perfect work outfit.
Outfit Details
H&M pants | Banana Republic sweater (similar here) | Steve Madden shoes
H&M tote | Eyebuydirect glasses
This article is not sponsored by any of the brands mentioned above. However, some of the links may contain affiliate links which may generate revenue for the site when clicked, or when a purchase occurs. The information in this post is my thoughts and preferences.
Photos by @cristaltapp
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