How to Dress for Work for Women

Corporate Ladder Climbing Gear

Knowing how to dress for work can be daunting, especially for women. As more businesses adopt business casual as acceptable business attire, and fashion magazines insist that "showing skin is in," some women fail at balancing the "casual" with the "business," The important rule of thumb to remember when dressing for work is, while casual at work may be optional, looking professional is not. Exercising poor work attire choices can convey an unfavorable message to your superiors and colleagues and ultimately stunt your growth within an organization.

Things You'll Need

• Company Dress Code Policy

Instructions

1. Consider your position. Professionals, particularly women who handle the financial and personal affairs of clients, should wear suits or add a blazer to separates. Women holding clerical positions should wear well coordinated tops and bottoms or dresses with conservative shoes and accessories. Wear machine washable pants if your position requires considerable bending and/or lifting.

2. Obtain a copy of your company's dress code policies. Employers generally provide every new employee with the work attire rules and regulations. Attain a copy from your organization's human resource department if necessary.

3. Study the dress code policies thoroughly. Pose all questions and concerns to your HR manager.

4. Consider your long-term career goals. Dress for the position you want; not the one you have.

5. Observe how others in a position you covet dress. Take cues from these individuals to develop a professional style of dress that best suits you.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep skirt lengths between the top of your knee to mid-calf.

• Learn what clothing styles work best for your particular body type.

• Understand what colors flatter your skin tone.

• Choose dark-washed, mid-rise jeans with no evidence of tearing or fraying.

• Avoid wearing flip flops to the office.

• Hire an image consultant or take classes to assist you with developing a professional wardrobe.

• Avoid exposing cleavage or too much legs. Remember, in the business world, more skin, less power.

References

• Business Casual
• Corporate Image Consulting