Do you dress for success? Workers in general, and particularly women, are often stumped when choosing what to wear to work: as a new college graduate, building a wardrobe on a shoestring budget presents its own challenges, while others who want to dress for the job they want, while still fitting the corporate culture, can get confused at what to wear. Common questions that are asked: Should I wear makeup? How can I dress stylishly while conservatively? Do women have to wear skirts? What if I don’t like skirts? Will I be seen as too “frilly” if I wear patterns or jewelry? How can I afford enough clothes for the week?

It is common knowledge that to dress for success, you need to look the part to be the part. The harsh reality is that people can, and do, judge people, and especially women, by their appearance in the workplace, whether it’s fair or not. For both men and women, proper appearance projects a confident and bold image. If you look capable and confident, it makes sense that you’re seen that way by others. And it further makes sense that if you look how you want to feel, you’ll perform much better than those who don’t take the time to carefully craft a career image.

Simply put, dress for success according to your profession and position, from head to toe. For example, if you’re in a finance or business position, which is typically more conservative, ripped jeans and sandals do not demonstrate someone who understands the complex world of negotiation and money. If you work in construction, you wouldn’t wear a silk suit, but would be expected to dress in a hard hat and boots for the job.

How You Can Dress For Success

• Pants: Invest in a few quality pieces, such as boot cut trousers in a trim (not tight) silhouette for women or straight-cut trousers for men, in basic colors like black, gray, and navy which can mix and match with shirts, blouses, and suit jackets. Medium-rise, boot cut pants are universally flattering for women and go with a variety of shoe styles. Likewise, straight pants that sit at the waist, without pleats, are universally flattering for men.
• Jackets: Buy a few jackets that are structured to fit the lines of the body without being too tight or loose. Again, basics like black, gray, and navy will allow you to wear them more than once during the week with different shirts for men, and a variety of tops and jewelry for women. Buttons should not strain or gape, and should fit well over a blouse or shirt without looking tight or sloppy.
• Ties: Men in traditional corporate environments should invest in three or four solid-color and striped ties which can mix and match with basic suit, pant, and shirt colors.
• Business Casual Women: For women in business casual environments, cardigans can work as nicely as suit jackets and come in a variety of colors and patterns that allow you to express personality while remaining appropriate.
• Business Casual Men: Men in business casual workplaces can wear non-pleated khaki pants with loafers and a polo or dress shirt.
• Blouses & Shirts: Blouses and dress shirts in a variety of colors and patterns will work nicely with pants, both alone and untucked for business casual, or tucked in with a jacket.
• Scarves: Scarves allow women to have fun with fashion while remaining appropriately dressed in a conservative environment.
• Shoes & Socks: Purchase shoes in neutral colors, such as black, gray, navy, or brown, to wear with dress pants. Women’s shoes should be closed-toe except in summer for workplaces that allow open toes. For her, shoes with a slight heel elevate the leg without being uncomfortable or looking out of place, and flats or loafers work well too. For him, loafers or tie dress shoes work well, and he should ensure they are polished without scuffs. Men should never wear shoes without dress socks and women should wear trouser socks or knee-highs with closed-toe shoes. Sneakers and flip-flops are generally not appropriate work attire, even on dress-down days.
• Jewelry & Accessories: Jewelry should be tasteful and kept to a minimum. A necklace, one ring on each hand, and a pair of small earrings works well. Or, wear one statement piece, such as a chunky necklace, and leave the rest of the jewelry at home.
• Makeup & Nails: Makeup and nail polish is optional. If makeup is worn, keep it neutral. Nail colors can be bright if wearing conservative attire and nails are kept short. Your makeup should enhance your image, not draw attention away from you as a person.

Dress For Success on a Budget

 What if you don’t have a lot of money to spend on clothing? You can still look good even if you’re a newbie entrepreneur on a shoestring budget. It’s not about how much you spend, but what you do with the fit, the matters. As Kevin O’Leary, Mr. Wonderful from Shark Tank, says, “If you have a suit that only cost $150, go the extra mile and get it tailored. Shine your shoes. Make sure you manicure your nails. It’s the simple things that people notice, that take you far.”

What tips do you have to dress for success? Do you agree with these guidelines? Tell us in the comments!  Also be sure to visit us for resume help in RI.  We provide services nationwide.