Job applications are in, and interviews are rolling out. Making a good impression on your potential employer is everything, and the first thing they are going to notice is your appearance. These tips on how to dress for success in the workplace will have you looking professional while staying true to your inner fashionista.
Colours and Patterns:
Whether it’s a pop of red or a splash of leopard print, accent colours and patterns provide a small, yet bold, contrast to an otherwise monochromatic ensemble.
Textures:
Pair a cashmere top with a faux leather skirt for a soft, yet edgy look. Try to experiment with any other textile combinations you can think of – textural differences and a fusion of styles can add some interest to your outfit.
Pretty Little Details:
Look for a blouse with lace sleeves, a shirt with an embellished neckline, or a pair of shoes with metallic toes. Little details like these add subtle variety to any standard fashion piece.
Accessories:
Add some bling to your attire and look instantly classier. Wearing a large necklace over a simple shirt or adding an exciting brooch to your blazer can go a long way. Remember to keep the statement pieces to a minimum, and not to go overboard; an outfit that is too busy can appear tacky and disorganized (unless your job requires an especially artistic look then, by all means, go all out).
Lengths and Layers
– Wear a shorter top with a pair of high-waist pants or skirt
– Pair a longer top with a cropped blazer
– Try a turtleneck or a top with a high neckline underneath an open sweater or jacket
– Pull a sweater over a blouse for some peek-a-boo action from the collar and sleeves
– Play around with rolling and cuff length for both tops and bottoms
Shape
No surprise, there has been a growing trend in boxy jackets and wide-legged pants, because they look unique and good! Combine something of a looser or angular fit with something skinny and tight-fitting for a stark contrast that will definitely make people notice you.
Master the Tuck
Play with the shape and look of your outfit by trying out the following:
The Half/Side Tuck
The Front Tuck (a more relaxed look; my go-to)
The Roll and Tuck
The Full Tuck
Staple Items
The bare bones of workplace and professional fashion. I cannot stress how important it is for you to have at least one high-quality piece of each of these items in your closet:
– Blazer
– Dress pants – both skinny and wide/flared fit
– Black pumps
– Blouse
– LBD – the Little Black Dress every woman should own
(Bonus points if you own a pantsuit!)
The biggest secret to an eye-catching and professionally impressive outfit? Juxtaposition.
Now, go and fashionably slay your interviews and lock in that job. Stay classy ladies, best of luck!