Intellect, intelligence, and personality are all part of what a successful employee brings to the table, but it's safe to say that it's not only on the inside what counts in this world of visual stimulation. Dressing the part and looking professional is also an important factor to an overall successful workplace effort.
Depending upon the field of work you're in, "dressing the part" means something different to everyone, but for the most part, these three tips will have you looking sharp, leaving a good impression, and keep your confidence soaring. It's time to put one sock on at a time and walk into your place of business with a sense of swagger!
1. Invest in a Decent Suit
You needn't blow your entire paycheck on your wardrobe. One nice foundation piece, be it a 3-piece suit, a basic sheath dress, or something else fitting for your line of work, is a great starter for a number of ensembles that can be created with this item as the base. One good investment will have the other mix-and-match pieces looking high-end and stylish. You'll look put together and sophisticated day in and day out.
Career Cast suggest "something tailor-made to ensure a correct fit and to choose a solid color that isn't distracting." Plus, steer clear of fads and trends that will pass before you've gotten a good run with the clothing and the most wear for your money. Think classic, timeless, and well-made.
2. Details Matter
Along with the perfect fit, the little things count when it comes to dressing well for the office. As per Forbes, "Ensure that your clothes are cleaned and pressed." Even the finest designer clothing will look like they're straight from the hamper if you waltz into work with wrinkles and stains. Match your personal appearance to your clothing care too… no ragged nails, keep your hair clean and fresh, and use makeup mindfully. This isn't "the club" or the weekend. Save less formal and more revealing looks for your personal time.
Stick to simple jewelry and accessories, match well, and de-lint that pet hair off yourself before leaving the house. Make sure your shoes are clean and workplace appropriate and don't overpower your aroma with heavy colognes, lotions, perfumes, or hair products. You want your look and presence to lead, not Chanel No. 5!
3. Go With the Flow
If you're not sure how to dress for your workplace, check out how the boss and upper management is dressed. As per Forbes, "When in doubt, err on the side of being slightly over dressed, rather than show up looking too casual." As they say, dress for the job you want, not necessarily for the job you have.
You can also speak to the human resources department for a dress guideline and recommendations for appropriate attire. Look around the office and catch the overall vibe. Of course, everyone has their own style, but stay in line with what's considered befitting for your line of work.
Ready to get that custom-made suit? Check out these 10 online options for something tailored to your taste and style at a variety of price points. Brown bag it for a few weeks rather than lunching out and you'll never regret the purchase. The investment will pay off with that promotion! Here's lookin' at you!
