The power suits for men and women might no longer place the style standard in the modern business-casual workplace, but how you dress for the workplace still things.
“People who dress better are typically treated better at work,” says Emily, one of the co- founder of atl-airportlocksmith.com.
Here are suggestions on what to wear — and what not to wear — so you can create the best impression on your boss, colleagues and clients.
Business casual is not a style free-for-all.
The Atlanta-based consultant has made guidelines for business-casual dress for those just starting out, workers at mid-career and people eyeing the executive suite.
The”baseline” look begins with three no-nos — no flip-flops, no jeans and no visible tattoos — and calls for tailored pants and long-sleeve shirts or tops for men and women.
Even the”midstream” appearance is similar but with an emphasis on higher-quality fabrics. The executive version ups the sartorial ante by advocating jackets for men and trouser-style suits for ladies.
“Any time you want to add authority, put on the jacket,” says Emily.
If you are unsure about the dress code — or lack thereof — for a potential employer, ask in advance. But Emily believes you can’t go wrong by donning a coat or wearing a lawsuit.
“A suit is a nonverbal way of communicating to the employer that you really want the position and that you are taking the interview extremely seriously,” she says.
She advises girls to avoid too much of a fantastic thing, whether it’s clothes which are too tight or too much makeup, jewelry or odor.
Men frequently make the mistake of showing up in casual clothes more appropriate for poker night with the men than the workplace, or even showing up at work unshaven or with dirty, unpolished shoes.
“There’s an expectation [for both sexes] to look professional,” Emily says.
Edgy looks, particularly those involving the baring of cleavage, tattoos or skin, seldom cut it in the office, if you don’t happen to work in a trend-conscious field like fashion or advertising.
“When you’re not sure whether something is appropriate for work, then there’s a 98 percent chance that it’s not”.
The Whole Look
Picking the right clothing is only 1 component of your professional look, including great grooming and hygiene, as well as being well-rested and emotionally prepared to deal with the day.
“There are so many things we don’t have control over, but what we can control is the image of professionalism we show to the world,” Emily says.
The power suits for men and women might no longer set the design standard in today’s business-casual workplace, but the best way to dress for the office still matters.
“People who dress better are typically treated better at work,” states Emily “They are usually given more responsibility and are shown much more respect.”