Looking professional is much trickier for women than it is for men. Men always have the basic suit and tie to fall back on, but women have to choose from a variety of looks to find one that’s professional without looking too stuffy. Here are some classic choices that are always acceptable in the workplace.
A Matching Suit Set: For the First Interview
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A matching suit set is the most professional option you can come up with for office wear. You can pull this look off with either a pant suit or a skirt. The bottom and jacket should match perfectly. There’s no mixing and matching with this look. Under the jacket, wear a simple button down blouse. Buying a good blouse is tricky, so make sure yours doesn’t gap at the bust or hug so tightly others can glimpse your bra beneath. If you choose a skirt, you must wear hose.
The Simple Skirt or Slacks and Blouse: For Everyday Wear
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A basic skirt or pair of slacks with a blouse is a slightly more casual look, though you can still keep it professional by sticking to neutral tones and simple tailored pieces without a lot of embellishment. If your work environment is a little more laid back, feel free to choose a skirt or blouse with a print. A ruffled blouse is another fun addition that is acceptable in certain situations. Avoid flashy jewelry, but do add a nice watch, stud earrings, and a simple chain or pearl necklace.
A Professional Dress: For Networking Events and Office Parties
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A dress is an easy choice that can carry a lot of professionalism when you’re careful about your choice. Unless you’re sure that it will be acceptable, steer clear of anything sleeveless. Always keep the hem to your knees or below. Hosiery is essential, though you can to get away with colored tights in some environments. Since your shoes are more noticeable with a dress, make sure these are professional with a closed toe and minimal embellishments. Leather pumps or Mary Janes are the safest bet.
A Skirt and Jacket: For Versatility During a Busy Day
A button down shirt isn’t always essential with a skirt in the workplace. Sometimes you’ll find your skirt looks more flattering with a different style top. As with the dress, avoid anything that’s sleeveless unless you’re sure it’s acceptable in your office. Make sure the neckline is high enough so that there’s no hint of your erotic lingerie lurking beneath. To keep this look professional, just throw a tailored suit jacket on over top. This may give you just the right touch of versatility. Toss the jacket on for a big meeting, but ditch it during the casual afternoon at your desk.
Trend-Setting Apps
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Style consistently fluctuates, and so does what is expected for office dress codes. These two style apps will let you stay updated in the fashion world, and offer style suggestions to your already professional wardrobe.
Style.com’s app gives users a front row seat at the latest runway shows from around the world. This free app keeps you trendy in the workplace, so you’re never found out of style. An updated style is especially important for careers that focus on design or creativity.
Stylecaster is a free app that combines the forecast with fashion. It suggests outfits for you depending on the day’s weather, so you’ll never be underdressed for a windy day, or overdressed for an unseasonably hot day. You’ll obviously have to adjust your wardrobe depending on the temperature of your office. But, if your job requires you to drive a lot throughout the day, this app will help you prepare for whatever the weather may bring.
Stock your closet with a few good blouses, skirts, slacks, and jackets, and you’ll be equipped for any situation. Always dress as professional as possible until you’re sure of the environment you’ll be in to avoid an embarrassing faux pas.
