Corporate or Casual? Traditional or English? Formal or informal? These and more are the questions you might find yourself asking each morning as you select work attire. Depending on the dress code your work place enforces, you could be spot on or woefully off-base in your fashion choices.
Here are some dress codes that could guide your decision on what to wear to work. They are general tips for both men and women. All you need is to stick to the basics and ensure that you are always dressed appropriately.
BUSINESS FORMAL: This is the highest form of professional dress. It is specifically for those who hold a high level position or who regularly meet with executives.
FOR MEN: A well tailored two or three button suit in a solid neutral colour like, black, gray, ash or navy blue. Ties and other accessories should be both modest in colour and style. Brighter colours for example, a red tie, navy plaid tie or patterned muted neutral will be perfect. A neat collared, button-up shirt in neutral colours is advisable. Shoes should be closed toe, in brown or black, not loafers. Hair should be well groomed. In general, short hair is most acceptable.
A well cut pant suit (If your workplace allows it or skirt suit in a white collared shirt. Closed toe heels or pumps in a neutral colour such as taupe, black, grey or brown (Flats are inappropriate).
Conservative accessories for instance diamond studs, rather than chandelier earrings are good. Well groomed hair, if you wear braids, make it simple and neat, not too lengthy. But if you prefer the hair extension route, then go for natural colours and moderate styles. In general make your hair to be neat and modest.
Skirts should not be more than two fingers-widths above the knees. Well groomed finger nails that are either clear coated or painted with beige toned polish.
BUSINESS CASUAL: This is a common dress code that allows employees to add personality to their work wear without looking unprofessional. You can also expect a lot more in the way of colour and accessories.
FOR WOMEN: Skirt worn without a collared shirt or blouse rather than mandatory collared button down.
Choose solid colours or muted patterns like stripes, checks and avoid crop-tops or slacks. Beautifully-styled-traditional skirts and blouse or dress is acceptable. Large jewelery such as statement necklace or large cuff style watch will be fine. Shoes may be comfortable flats and loafers as well as pumps. They can be any colour. Hair can be more casual with less conservative colours and even more noticeable highlights are generally acceptable. It should still be neatly styled.
FOR MEN: Collared button-ups in any colour, checks or strips are acceptable, worn with or without a tie, well tailored traditional attires are also good. Shoes can be loafers or another confortable yet dressy choice.
It is important to know that any of the dress codes can be worn based on the dress code obtainable in a particular workplace or events that your office has for a particular period.
Always remember to inject personally into your outfits with accessories and colour choices. Also endeavour to be a bit creative with your fashion.
People make specific judgments regarding your capability based on your clothes.
