What to Wear to Work: Professionalism for Working Women
Did you know that your clothing choices can greatly impact how professional you appear in the work place? You've probably heard the saying "dress for success", and it's true! Many businesses have a dress code that their employees are expected to follow. If you're not sure what the details of your office dress code are take a look at what a female boss is wearing as an example. You really can't go wrong here.
For general guidelines, avoid wearing too many accessories or jewelry, skimpy or short skirts, excessive cosmetics, and/or revealing clothing. Typically, a skirt should be no shorter than one inch above your knee. Prior to selecting a skirt for work, try wearing it and engaging in typical activities done in the office environment in order to help you determine if it may be a little too short. Try activities such as sitting down, reaching for something on a shelf above your head, or bending over and picking an object up. Furthermore, try to engage in these activities while in front of a mirror to help you judge exactly how high your skirt moves, and if it is still appropriate for work or not.
Also make sure you're not covered in accessories. You aren't going to be taken very seriously in the office if you're wearing 15 bangle bracelets. Make sure that your earrings are also under an inch in both length and width. Earrings that are too long or too big look unprofessional. Also try to stay away from silly trends-of-the-week, like wearing multiple watches. If you feel like getting dolled up wait for the weekend.
Finally, it is very important that your work outfit doesn't show off too much skin. A shirt that is low-cut in the back or shows off cleavage is a definite no-no in the office. Anything transparent and any cut-outs are not considered professional attire. Keep your neckline modest or you'll never be taken seriously as a business woman.
Now that your clothes are all set for the work day you need to check that your makeup is also appropriate. Stick to neutral colors when applying makeup for work. Anything flashy like a gloss, shimmering eyeshadows, glitter or bronzers will only make you look ready to go clubbing, not work hard. Also try not to cake on your makeup. You'd be surprised how much a light touch with neutral colors can enhance your looks.
Finally, once you have selected an appropriate ensemble for the office, you will not only feel comfortable, but you will have a greater self-confidence in all that you do.
Want to find out more about what to wear to work, then visit Ashley McLean's site on how to choose the best work wardrobes and ensembles for your needs.
