How to Dress Your Way to a Promotion

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People make the mistake of equating “casual day” at work with a chance to wear their sweat suits and pajama clothes to the office. Be careful how you dress each and every day. Though it is not accurate to state that you are what you wear, it is a fact that people do judge you by how you dress. Here are a few no nonsense guidelines to keep in mind.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Taste
Common sense
A moderate wardrobe with classic lines

Step1

Dress for the job you want to have. That usually means that you want to dress at least as well as your boss, or the people at managerial level. You will not lose points because you dress too well for the job, assuming you are in an office position.

Step2

Avoid all of the following: flip flops, sandals, sneakers of any kind, sweat suits, yoga pants, or any exercise attire, halter tops, bare midriff jerseys, or anything sparkly.

Step3

Do not wear low cut or suggestive clothing. Men need to avoid that low rider peak-at-the-boxer-shorts look. Tee shirts with sayings, or rock bands names on them are a no-no even on casual days. Never wear jeans to work, though some dress denim is acceptable, like a denim blazer, vest or jumper.

Step4

Shoes need to be clean, scuff-free and no toes should be seen at any time in the office. Spend a little extra on a couple of pairs of quality shoes, one in brown and one in black.

Step5

Avoid dressing like you are trying to look twenty years younger. People will laugh at you behind your back. Classic styles are always the best choice.

Step6

Good grooming is very important. Even if you work on classic cars all weekend, your nails need to be clean and dirt free for work. Wash and comb your hair. Smell good but not too strongly. Smelling like soap is fine.

Step7

Be careful of clothes that require ironing. Iron them. In the future, buy clothes that don’t need to be pressed or steamed. This will save you valuable morning time.

Step8

Jewelry is fine at work, but don’t wear your big, serious bling – like gold chains or chandelier earrings - to the office. The same goes for piercings. Leave all that stuff at home and cover up any tattoos while you are on the job.

Step9

Your wardrobe should reflect who you are and what you want to become, not where you would rather be instead of working (nightclub, beach, gym, etc). That being said, dress for a comfortable fit. Tight clothes are not becoming on anyone. Even if you are thin enough not to look fat, you will look like you are wearing the wrong size, another fashion faux pas.

Step10

Invest in a few good basics, like nice dress pants and quality shirts or blouses along with a couple of blazers. Most industries do not require men to wear ties any longer, but you should wear them when outside visitors like job candidates come in. Dress well, feel your best and be on top of your workplace game.