Shattered the glass ceiling? Halfway there? Or, just starting your career? Conventional wisdom touts dressing for success, or dressing for the job you want, not the job you have. But do those old adages still hold true, and what does dressing for success in the workplace look like today?
In the past, the office dress code was straightforward and easy to understand. Power suits and dresses were ubiquitous and any deviation from the norm could get your branded as a suspected nonconformist (and basically, not promotable). Over the years, however, many office dress codes have leaned in – hard – toward the often difficult-to-define “business casual.” Of course, the pandemic only accelerated that trend (remember pajama pants on Zoom calls?).
So today, are there new office dressing “rules?” And, how closely should you follow them?
Unfortunately, the experts offer mixed signals. For example, the BBC’s piece, “Does ‘dressing for success’ still matter?” states that, “Getting the balance wrong by overdressing can send a negative message. An estimated 79% of workplaces in the US now have a casual dress code. Turning up in a suit to signal ambition or promotion hopes could actually damage your reputation.”
However, the Boss Project has a slightly different take. In the recent article, “How to Dress like a Boss & Create Your Own Distinct Look with Your Wardrobe” author Tori B. of The Stylette says, “as much as you may not want to admit it, your image is really important… When you walk into a room full of new faces, your personality isn’t the first thing people notice. It’s what you put on your back, and the confidence that radiates through when you put an awesome outfit on.”
Confused? Don’t despair! Here are six easy takeaways to demystify today’s office dress code:
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Consider the occasion
A typical Tuesday at the office is one thing. But, an official visit from the company CEO? You may want to reconsider your ensemble. Ditto an important Zoom call with a new client. Toss on a jacket or cardigan, zhuzh up a plain crew neck with a pretty scarf, or add eye-catching jewelry. The subtle additions turn a plain-Jane outfit into something a bit more special.
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Personalize your look
Favor pants over skirts? Kitten heels over stilettos? Thankfully, the ability to dress based on personal preference has come a long way since the cookie cutter days of “power dressing.” In “Why ‘Dress for Success’ Still Matters” at The Female CEO, author Nichola English explains, “Through our own style we are constantly silently communicating our own story to the world, as our clothes can reflect our moods and personality. Therefore, you need to create a wardrobe that matches your personality and dress in your own distinctive way. This communicates to the outside world that you’re comfortable, self-assured, and confident in your own skin.”
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What should you avoid?
In general, anything ripped (torn jeans) or ultra casual (gray sweatpants and trainers) should be relegated to the weekend. Crop tops, while fine for retail and other settings, are usually frowned upon in an office, as are micro minis, or anything very revealing. Some industries (advertising, fashion, etc.) have much looser guidelines (think Emily in Paris!). Some, (law, engineering) are quite a bit more formal. By observing any office trends, you should be able to get a read on just how far you can push the envelope.
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Taboo no longer!
Happily, many style choices, such as brightly colored hair (pink, blue, etc.), visible tattoos, and multiple piercings, are no longer considered fringe!
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Adopting the stealth wealth and quiet luxury mantra
The popularity of stealth wealth or quiet luxury looks (a monochromatic combination of a pale gray cashmere sweater, billowy trousers, and boots, for example) conveys professionalism, without resorting to a more staid, traditional look. It also makes dressing each morning oh-so-simple (almost like Garanimals!) Another benefit? By avoiding overly trendy looks, you will get more mileage out of pieces, making clothing purchases truly investments.
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Exceptions to the rule
As always, there are some exceptions to every rule. For example, there are industries where skirted suits, pant suits, and dresses with heels are still considered non-negotiable. In these workplaces, coloring within the lines is strongly encouraged.
Whichever looks you choose, make sure to pay attention to fit and function. Nothing makes a work day go more slowly that a skirt that keeps riding up, or boots that pinch when you walk.
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