MANY COMPANIES HAVE STARTED IMPOSING DRESS codes, so when shopping keep in mind keep in mind any restrictions outlined about specific clothing requirements and rules. Even if you do not believe that your company has a dress code, it is still advised that you do a little bit of research before you start shopping for clothes that help you feel more confident at work. Most dress codes are outlined in employee handbooks. If you do not have your employee handbook, you should be able to request a new copy from someone in management or human resources.
In addition to simply looking over your company’s dress code, it is extremely important that you follow it. While you may not necessarily think about it at the time, the wrong outfit could result in a write-up or even the termination of your position. That is why it is important that you thoroughly read through your company’s dress code policy, as well as follow it. Even with a long list of rules and restrictions, you can still find an unlimited number of dress for success clothing pieces that can make you feel professional and confident.
BUSINESS CASUAL DRESS FOR WOMEN
First of all, never look to the television or the internet for inspiration for your business casual dress wardrobe. Remember that both the internet and television is a dream world. As a career woman you need to be grounded in the real world to be taken seriously.
Think comfort when choosing slacks and skirts. Business casual dress should never be tight and confining. Just imagine sitting through a long meeting with a pair of pants that pull and bunch. Even worse, imagine a skirt that literally binds you and prevents you from breathing. Neither will help you appear confident.
Along with comfort you also need to consider appearance. Clothing that is too loose or wrinkly will only make you look unprofessional. Business casual dress should be comfortable but this doesn’t mean that you can wear pajamas to the office. You do want to communicate that you respect your self as well as your associates.
The length of your slacks and skirts are important as well. If the cuffs on your pant tend to rise up a little too much then they need to go. If your skirt slides up, you may want to put this clothing item to rest also.
Your tops should always be cleaned and pressed. Save cleavage for happy hour. Your business casual dress shirts should always be professional and appropriate no matter how relaxed the atmosphere is.
A FEW TIPS FOR MEN
Men should never wear a tie on a short sleeved shirt. Short sleeves are considered casual apparel. The only time a tie is executable on short sleeves is if it is apart of a uniform, in any other circumstance this would definitely be considered a faux pas.
Your shoes are important as it complements your entire look. Always keep your shoes clean, shined and wear ones that are appropriate for any given occasion. Lace-up shoes should be worn with a suit. You can prolong the life of your shoes, if you would hang them on shoe trees when not in use.
Men’s trousers should not be short. They should cover the socks. Also, socks that you wear should be long enough cover your legs so that no skin is shown when your cross your legs. When the front of your pant legs forms a slight break, you will know that your trousers are long enough.
The color of your socks should match with your trousers. Your tie should reach your belt line. Never wear a belt and suspenders at the same time.
Single breasted suits can have up to three buttons. Jackets with two or three buttons are classic and suitable for social events. Only the top button is fastened for a jacket with two buttons. You can close the middle button or both the middle and lower button if the jacket has three buttons. For jackets with four or more buttons, all the buttons should be fastened.
Double breasted suits are more formal which will have four to six buttons. They are identified by a two number designation with the first number signifying the total number of front buttons and the second number representing the number of button holes. Not all buttons have to be fastened. Usually the middle or upper button is fastened.
Sports jackets and suits should properly fit and a quarter to half an inch of the shirt sleeve should show at the jacket sleeve.
These are tips that will not only help you dress for success but are sure to help you accomplish that feeling of confidence when presenting yourself to the world.