The Office Dress Code

What to wear at Work...

We frequently talk about office dress code but a query landed on my desk this week which prompted me to return to this age-old subject.

In the changing world of work, professional women are now regarded as more capable and successful than ever before. Many have worked themselves up the corporate ladder gaining huge respect.

But with every advancement comes responsibility. If you want to be taken seriously in a professional workplace then office dress codes work for HIM and for HER!

Invariably, a woman needs to prove herself to be capable of competing in a man’s world and appearance is a powerful form of communication. 

You have control over your visual presentation and when your appearance is impressive people will want to listen and take note of what you have to say. 

Office dress codes always vary from industry to industry but this handy reminder of the acceptable guidelines for a professional, from British work-wear retailers T M Lewin, makes it easy for both men and women to crack the office dress code. 

Many years ago the term ‘dress for the job you want’ was coined – it still works!

Business Formal for a Woman

Business professional (or formal) attire is a formal dress code commonly found in traditional workplace settings such as banking, law, finance and government. 

It reflects professionalism and seriousness towards one's role, making it essential for job interviews, client meetins and formal corporate events. The goal is toconvey credibility and competence through a polished appearance.  

Key Components of Business Professional Attire for Women

Suits: Tailored pants suits or skirt suits are ideal choices. A well-fitted blazer paired with dress pants or a pencil skirt is a classic look. 

Dresses: Knee length professional dresses that are modest and well-tailored can also be appropriate. These should be paired with a blazer for a more formal look. 

Blouses: Conservative blouses in solid colors or subtle patterns can be worn under blazers. Avoid overly bright colors or distracting prints. 

Footwear: Closed-toe shoes such as low pumps, loafers or flats are recommended. If wearing heeels, they should generally be below 3 inches. 

Accessories: Keep accessories minimal and professional. Avoid chunky jewelry or anything that makes a noise when moving. 

Business Professional

Business professional is very similar to formal, except that more color and pattern, plus a wider variety of shoes are 'accepted'. 

A uniquely patterned tie or a short-sleeved collared shirt is acceptable for men. Shirts don’t need to be tucked in, and a blazer is not required. On the bottom, men might wear slacks, khakis, and chinos.

For women, this dress code opens the door to less-tailored dresses or trendy pant suits that are not typically included in traditional formal wear. You can experiment with different types of skirts, blouses, and conservative attire. Avoid anything shorter than the knee or shirts that expose a lot of cleavage.

A more relaxed approach! 

The unspoken dress guidelines of the past were stringently followed but times have changed and, in many industries, employers are reluctant to stipulate an office dress code.

Informality has gained pace and, its by no mans unusual to see a pair of jeans where once you would have expected a smart suit. But your male colleague, whether he's wearing a business suit or jeans, is never going to be mistaken for a secretary!

You are your own best asset!

The link between identity and appearance remains strong because you are your own best business asset at all times and an appropriate image can have a powerful influence on the development of any career. 

It's often said that women who wear makeup earn more than those who don't! I'm sure there are many different opinions but, ridiculous or not, it's part of the uniform, part of being properly put together and looking the part.

It's not just personal style and grooming that's noticed. When you walk into a room your gestures and body language speak volumes too. Confident, professional, efficient, competent – are these the words your image is conveying?

Classic and Capsule

Invest in an Online Color Analysis so you can identify a main neutral color to form the backbone of your co-ordinated wardrobe - suit, jacket, skirt and coat. The other shades in your color family will allow you to add touches of accent colors so you can mix and match for great versatility. 

Ensure that everything you buy fits you well and flatters your body shape - comfort is important for the varying situations that the day may throw at you.