What to Wear at Work

What kinds of messages does your clothing send about you? It’s not a question we spend a lot of time thinking about, but what if it was keeping you from that promotion or new job you really wanted? Are you clear on what your style says? We all know that first impressions matter and that most communication is actually non-verbal so how much of that is being directed by your clothing? I have constructed some simple ways to tell if you are leaving people with the impression you want.

1. Create a Survey
a. Ask friends, family, and coworkers what their description of your style is. For example: professional, sloppy, comfortable, stylish, unapproachable?
b. Does this style match your personality or the working relationships you want to have?
c. What are the pieces in your wardrobe that are a reflection of their feedback?
d. What colors are you wearing that may lead to their opinion of your style? For example: do you wear a lot of red and black that may justify a feedback that you are unapproachable?

There are some easy ways to combat these descriptions of your style without spending a lot of money.

Here is a quick guide:
1. Unapproachable/ Harsh
a. If you wear a lot of solid colors that are either black or primary colors and you’re getting a feedback that you are unapproachable or harsh, try wearing colors that are based more in brown tones such as khakis, creams, light greens, blues and purples.
b. Is your clothing too structured? Clothing that fits well is very important, but are you wearing things that are too structured? For instance, are you always wearing a suit Jacket? Try wearing knits like a great wrap around knit sweater or cardigan instead of a suit jacket.
2. Sloppy/Not Trustworthy/ Young
a. Does your clothing fit your body? Can you grab a lot of extra fabric under your arms when you put on your button down or blazer? Does the shoulder of the shirt actually line up with your natural shoulder? In a button down or blazer these should always match up exactly. Try a new store or new brand to see if it will fit you better-- Banana Republic is perfect for busty women whereas Theory is really good for women who are petite.

Try these new styles for a couple of weeks and then redo the survey. You will be surprised at the results.