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Fundamentals for Dressing Professionally in the Workplace

“Appearances are a glimpse of the unknown”

Dressing up for an interview, a job, or a professional event can be stressful. The fact that you want to make the best first impression possible adds to the stress.

The first impression is the most critical in a job interview. Studies suggest that before you have had a chance to discuss your skills, you have already been judged on your appearance and clothing.

Although a job interview or a professional meeting is hardly the place for a trendy fashion statement, your employer/prospective employer should see that you dress the part for an office environment.

Taking the initiative to look your best is a sign that you care. Dressing professionally in the workplace is also a compliment to the person you meet.

Listed below are some tips for building a desirable professional wardrobe.

For Women

Love thy Suit- dressing professionally in the workplace Love thy Suit: As a professional woman, a business suit is a must have. Ensure that your ensemble is complete with skirt or pants to compliment your blazers. Choose between different colours, cuts and designs to suit your body type. Nothing conveys elegance, responsibility and power better than a good suit.
Sheath dress is the way to go- dressing professionally in the workplace Sheath dress is the way to go: Ask the women who spend long arduous hours in the office, this dress is a life saver. Shades of black, brown or grey are highly recommended. The most important factors for wearing this dress right are size, cut and shape. This dress can easily be transformed into casual night/party wear. Pair this dress with a cool blazer in the day and by night, you can compliment your dress with funky accessories and cool shoes. In either case, you are ready to rock.
Button-Down shirts- dressing professionally in the workplace Button-Down shirts – A crisp, white and collared shirt should be a staple in your wardrobe. They can be worn under a suit and/or can be paired with skirts or pants. Again, the most important factor is the cut and fit. A loose fitting shirt paints a shabby picture, it’s not something that we can afford, now, can we? Cotton is the choice fabric for this shirt.
Pants- dressing professionally in the workplace Pants: Another must have for your wardrobe, go with pants that are classic, chic and elegant.  A perfectly fitting, straight legged pant can enhance your elegance threefold. Like other wardrobe staples, ensure that they are  of a quality fabric, preferably wool.
Shoe it up ‘Shoe’ it up: Shoes complete your attire. Ensure that they are comfortable and of the right fit. Black pumps is an ideal choice for professional work attire. Ensure that they are of high quality and closed toe with a 2 to 4 inch heel.

For Men

Suits men - dressing professionally in the workplace Suits: Every man needs at least one suit in his wardrobe. You can’t go wrong here. A suit is is a safe & classy choice. It travels seamlessly from the boardroom to an evening out. It compliments almost any shirt-and-tie combination. To up the elegance factor, pair it with a crisp white shirt, a pocket square and a dark solid tie.
Dark Jeans Dark Jeans: Few decades ago, this wouldn’t have made it to the list but times have changed. Dark jeans are now a staple in the working man’s wardrobe for casual Friday. Opt for comfort, quality, and no rips.
Polo T- Shirts Polo T- Shirts: Polo’s are a great summer shirt, but also recommended for work for casual Fridays. For a basic collection, start with navy blue, grey and dark green. Again, this is going to last a long time, so look for quality and comfort. Do not pop your collar or top button.
Shoes men Shoes: A good pair will match most suits. You can never go wrong with a lace up look. They can be used at work or any occasion that calls for some formality. Therefore, go for quality with fine leather and stitching from a reputable brand. Avoid square toed shoes and look for something rounded front.

Now that you know the basics of dressing formally in the workplace, ensure that it is never out of place. Liked the article? Be sure to like and share it and don’t forget to share your views in the comments.

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