For many of us, it is a daily struggle to decide what to wear to work. Especially when choosing what to wear for work, you can’t just take a random pick from your wardrobe. It needs to look professional and workplace appropriate while still allowing you to express yourself.
From formals to business casuals, classic casuals, smart casuals – the rules surrounding dressing in workplace are almost always changing, and it’s difficult to keep up. But there are a few general rules that every professional should keep in mind regardless of how casual the atmosphere is at your workplace. So, take note, as the experienced team at Uniform Suppliers offers a list of things you should steer clear of in the workplace.
Dirty or Wrinkled Clothes
Nothing screams “unprofessional” quite like wearing unclean, stained, or crinkled clothes to work or a formal meeting. It not only reflects poorly on the person wearing such clothes but may also signal a disrespect or careless attitude towards others. On the contrary, clean and crease-free clothes show that you’re ready to put your best foot forward while at work. Also, it’s a good practice to keep oneself well-groomed. Keep the messy hairdo for casual events.
Tight or Provocative Clothes
Plunging necklines, midriff-baring crop tops, sheer fabrics, sky-high hemlines, and mini dresses might be trendy, but they have no business in the workplace. Wearing skin tight or revealing clothes could land you in trouble and will perhaps earn you a seat at the HR office for a lesson on workplace appropriate attire. Likewise, unbuttoned shirts are no-no for men.
Excessively Casual Clothing
When casual office wear is allowed, it’s up to you to figure out exactly how casual that means. T-shirts and shorts, ripped clothing, baggy clothing, yoga pants and leggings definitely do not belong to the workplace. Jeans may also be out in some offices, but some allow them if they are nice and dark colored. Many offices don’t permit flip-flops or crocs, so be mindful of your workplace rules. Wear what you like but remember what you wear affects how you work.
Party Wear
The office is not a place to make a sparkly statement. While dressing for work, stay away from flashy outfits that are suited for night outs. While leather pants or clothes with a ton of bling are perfect for social events, they not workplace-friendly.
Other helpful tips
- Regardless of gender, when at office, employees should never wear clothing that shows off the underwear.
- Your muscle tees and yoga pants are not suited as workwear, so save those workout clothes for the gym.
- Even if you are allowed to wear t-shirts at your workplace, never wear one with offensive messages or funky graphics. Save them for wearing elsewhere.
- Avoid wearing dizzying prints, clashing patterns on clothing, jewelry or even nails that are not only flashy and distracting but also somewhat tacky.
- Refrain from using too much aftershave or perfume while going for work.
The thumb rule is, anything that might draw unnecessary attention or make others uncomfortable should be left out of your work dressing repertoire.
