No matter your office dress code, there are certain things you should never wear to work. While it’s fine to arrive in your cycling gear and change into your bests, you wouldn’t hold a meeting in athletic wear, for example. However obvious the rules of workwear may seem, many people make more than one fashion faux pas in the office. To make sure you always look the part, here are five workwear dos and don’ts to follow.
Do smarten up for an interview
Your interview is the perfect time to impress your potential employer. Knowing how to dress, however, can be worrisome for most, as they want to strike a balance between approachable and friendly, while also being professional enough.
The best way to determine how to dress is to research the company beforehand. Depending on the type of company you are preparing to interview with, they may have a certain brand, set of ethics, or general style that you will want to appeal to and dress accordingly for. Having a thorough knowledge about the company will also stand you in good stead as you will appear confident, passionate and knowledgeable in the way you answer any questions.
Of course, to prep for the ideal interview, you need to make sure you are interviewing for a job you really want, which will involve some thorough research. If you are looking for a good place to start in terms of finding your next job, there are plenty of options online. Whether you are looking for jobs in Glasgow, London, Manchester, or other up and coming fashionable cities, head to Gumtree, and be sure to read the job specification and to look at the company’s website. You will get a feel for what your ideal company will expect. You will also be able to see how their website is created and how the company is portrayed. What’s more, you can read company reviews, although you should take these with a pinch of salt. Once you have an idea of the company’s brand and general vibe, you can be sure to dress accordingly and walk into the interview confident.
Don’t think it doesn’t matter
Your work clothes say a lot about how much you value your job. Showing up in an unpressed suit or scuffed shoes, for example, shows you’re not entirely professional. This lack of care in your appearance tells your boss and clients that you don’t care about your job. Whether that’s true or not, you should always try to make a good impression at work. You have a responsibility to represent the company with your style; so don’t neglect your wardrobe.
Do keep spares in your office
However careful you are with your lunch, there’s no guarantee you won’t spill food on your best tie or stain your white shirt with coffee. Stash a spare shirt and tie in your office to avoid getting caught out before an important meeting.
Don’t wear oversized shirts
Again, oversized shirts don’t look stylish – they look sloppy. Always go for well-fitted clothing and make sure you wear a belt to keep your trousers up!
Do keep it simple
No one’s saying you can’t wear a patterned shirt or tie – just not together. If you wear a statement piece, make sure the rest of your outfit is fairly demure, and keep the accessories to a minimum. While there’s no harm in expressing your personality, it’s best to keep your workwear simple and stylish.
Don’t take smart/casual too literally
The smart/casual look can be incredibly stylish when done right. Execute it poorly, however, and you’ll end up looking more slapdash than dapper. For best results, add one casual element per three smart ones. If you’re wearing suit trousers and a demure button-down shirt, you can afford a colorful tie. If you’re wearing smart suede shoes and a blazer, colorful socks can give your outfit a pop of color and personality.
Your work uniform can be difficult to master, but with these six dos and don’ts, you’ll have all your bases covered.
