Whether we like it or not, our appearance affects how other people perceive us. When we are talking about a professional environment, it is even more critical. We are not only representing ourselves, as when we were students. Now, we are representing the company we are working in. That is why it is so important that our look matches our skills, our education and also our ambitions. We have put together an Office Style Guide. If you are landing your first job, it will be very helpful.
Take into account that every office might have a different culture and dressing code. Creative industries might have fewer restrictions or allow you to be more playful. What we are showcasing here is a typical corporate business like banks, insurance, hotels, offices, etc
THE OFFICE STYLE GUIDE
Do´s and Don’t´s in the office when it comes to fashion.
OFFICE STYLE GUIDE: THE DO´S
There is a saying that goes “Dress for the job that you want and not the job you have”. So be it! Whether you are trying to make it, or you already made it, your look should be perfect from head to toe. Any effort is more than worthy.
- Suits are your friend. They will make you look put together and uber professional. With a skirt or pants, they always deliver. Be careful with the length of the slit if skirts.
- For a perfect look always choose solid colors over patterns. Solid colors give the message to whoever sees you, that you are very involved in your job.
- If possible choose neutral colors over bright colors. According to the psychology of fashion, bright colors are always bringing the party out of every situation. So, they might not give the professional image that you are looking to project to your boss and co-workers.
- There are some colors that project better a professional image over others. Those colors are blue, brown, grey, white and black. They are ideal to wear to the office. You can mix and match and use them on different tones or hues.
- If you wear high heels remember this very important rule: nothing higher than 3cms/6 inches. There is a time and place for everything. Very high heels are not for the office.
- When it comes to makeup, make sure it is subtle and natural. Use earthy tones and nothing eccentric. You are going to the office, not to a Carnival!
- Perfume is a big yes, but beware. Don´t overdo it!
- We all love a good manicure. In corporate environments, keep your nails simple and polished. Select an appropriate color and length to be able to work. French manicure is a safe bet.
OFFICE STYLE GUIDE: DONT´S
This is a short but important list of things you should never do or wear to the office:
- Remember the high heel rule? Well, sandals aren’t for the office either. So leave them for your private life, weekends or social activities.
- See-through fabrics are a big no. Same as clothes that might be too revealing.
- Clothes that are not your size are not recommendable. Clothes that are too tight give the wrong message to your boss, co-workers, and clients. So, avoid this as much as possible.
- No miniskirts. The length recommended for the corporative world is just under your knee.
- Leave the prints, especially the animal print, for your time off the office. It gives the message that you are not ready for the corporative world.
- Messy hair. Hair is so important for us, women. Please have it clean and nice. You might want to style it blow dried or tied up. As long as it looks nice and it is easy for you to work, it is cool.
THINK OF IT
Your boss, co-workers, and clients are looking at you, even if you think they don’t care. The minute you are hired, you start representing the company. We are all ambassadors of the companies we work in. The way you act, dress and behave while at work will be extremely important for your future there. Last but not least, you are representing yourself, you should never forget that. Wherever you go, the way you introduce yourself to the world is pretty much as I call it, your business card. How do you want to be remembered? How do you want to be treated? It´s all related and the way you look is a part that will dictate the outcome.
Never forget: Dress for the job you want, and not for the job you have.”
Did we leave something behind? Let us know in the comments!
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