Almost every organisation has a dress code policy it uses as a guide for how it wants its employees to dress professionally. Some dress codes are clear but some may not be so clear. If you don’t want to look out of place, here are 5 things to avoid to maintain a professional look.
1. Wearing creased clothes
This advice may be obvious but you will be surprised at the number of people who think they can get away with a small crease. It will get noticed and nothing looks as unprofessional as creased clothing. If you can’t iron for whatever reason, get professionals to help.
If time is not on your side, set aside time over the weekend to iron your clothes for the week. This will also save you time on those early mornings.
2. Wearing clothes that are too tight
This applies to both men and women. Dress according to your body size and shape. Ill-fitting clothes are inappropriate and unprofessional. Make sure your outfit is comfortable enough to stand or sit in all day. Wearing clothes that are too tight will have you have you lose people’s respect and gain you popularity for the wrong reasons.
You might say you don’t care but in a professional setting, it matters a lot. How you present yourself to colleagues, business partners and clients is important.
3. Wearing loud colours and prints
Bright loud colours are distracting and not appropriate for the corporate world. They make your outfit appear too loud and are simply not ideal. Stick to neutrals and subtle shades of grey, green, blue or brown. A touch of red is fine but make sure not to go overboard unless it is your corporate colour. Always wear office appropriate colours based on your organisations dress policy.
4. Wearing too much jewellery
In a corporate setting, keep you jewellery subtle and simple. Avoid wearing multiple bracelets or chunky chains. A simple wrist watch or single bracelet will suffice. The goal is to be as elegant as you can with your jewellery. Less is more in this regard.
5. Applying heavy makeup
Heavy or loud makeup is never ideal for an office. Nor is a bare face ideal. Go for a natural neutral look. Avoid coming layers of make up on your face. Keep your makeup simple and elegant.
Avoid these simple things and you will dress professionally and earn the right kind of attention and respect. This will, in turn, help you build your confidence.
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