When you’re trying to figure out what to wear to work, remember that it depends on where you work. You have to take into account your work environment, the demands you face during your work day, and the appropriate style standards set by your bosses. You may be an on-trend fashionista or classic and put-together, but whatever your fashion calling, you still have to make your style work in the workplace. If you’re looking for the best way to combine your personal style and work appropriate attire, read on for tips and tricks that make fashion work for you.
General Rules
If you’re new to an organization, make sure to read over their official dress code policy. Even if you’ve work somewhere for a while, it’s not a bad idea to review the rules on how you’re supposed to dress. Don’t assume form-fitting or revealing clothing, like crop tops, are okay without confirming with your supervisor first. Once you’re sure you understand the basics of what your company expects of you dress wise, enjoy putting your own stamp on each outfit.
Wearing a Uniforms
Do you wear a uniform to work? Often uniforms can make your life easier, as you don’t need to plan a different outfit for each work day. You can rely on the uniform to save you time and energy, but if you’re bored with the same-old, same old, try spicing things up with accessories.
Depending on the uniform guidelines, you might be able to individualize your look with a colorful scarf or some unique jewelry. Even the smallest pieces can make a difference. If you really want to feel like an individual, try monogrammed jewelry or a belt with your initials on it.
The Corporate Landscape
In some professions, like law, banking and political lobbying, dress is historically conservative. If you’re in one of these field and don’t feel comfortable brightening up your grey flannel suit with a neon scarf or colorful bangles, remember the clothes that people don’t see. You can layer under your suit with a comfy and cute tank in whatever color or pattern you like. You can also take your shoes to the next level, adding a little color or pattern there—without leaving coworkers and clients shell-shocked.
Casual Friday
No matter how formal the dress code at your office is, most offices embrace casual Friday. If your at-home casual outfit is sweatpants and a ripped college tee, it might not be appropriate for the office, but leggings and a flowing blouse with flats will work. You can also go for jeans and an appropriate message tee (no politics or insults) with a fun scarf for a casual and cute look.
The Creative Workplace
If you’re lucky enough to work somewhere with no uniform and no particular dress code, then by all means—show off your personality! Whether you love dresses or slacks, skirts or rompers, wear what you want—just make sure that you’re covered appropriately.
In fact, toning it down in this kind of workplace can work against you, as often you won’t vibe with your coworkers and bosses. If you do prefer a quieter look, you can try leggings and a top in all black and use colorful scarves and unique jewelry pieces to show off your artistic side.
Outside Work
If your job takes you outside for all or part of the day, consider making your fashion statement while also protecting your complexion. Try on lots of hats until you find the type that suits your face best: wide brimmed, newsboy hat, baseball cap, or a visor.
Layers work well when you’re outdoors, too—especially in changing temperatures. Don’t be afraid to layer a short sleeved tee over a long sleeved tee. It’s a great way to add color and personality, while staying comfortable outside.
Don’t forget to accessorize with your favorite cute warm boots and gloves.
Chilly Companies
Many offices are overly cooled, and while some employees find the cool air invigorating, others dislike the chill. If you don’t love being cold at the office, try a cute shawl or a right-on-trend poncho. They come in cotton, wool, or combination materials, so try out several until you find the one that works right for you and your office. A poncho layer over a soft cotton tee will keep you smiling through the air-conditioned work day.
Don’t be afraid to try fingerless gloves. If you feel like you’re working on a laptop in the tundra, fingerless gloves are easily available and you can wear them while you type, dial the phone, or work the copy machine.
Shoes
Don’t forget shoes, like high heels, booties, boots, and comfy flats. Take advantage of any opportunity to wear shoes that you love. In some offices, sandals are even appropriate, but if you work in a more rugged environment—or you’re on your feet all day—be sure to take shoe comfort into consideration.
Making Workplace Fashion Work
Dressing for work doesn’t have to be a time-consuming, stressful ordeal each morning. Just know your wardrobe and understand the dress code rules of your workplace, then add a unique detail that makes it your own.
