It may seem simple: shoes; the suit and tie for him; the suit, skirt or pant-top ensemble for her. Most businesses even have a concise, well-composed pamphlet on the subject, illustrations and all, of what to and what not to wear at the office. Yet the majority of corporate offices in America abound in unsubstantiated fashion faux pas. Not only are these odious deviants so blithely unaware of their scandalous lack of presentable aesthetic, many will go so far as to smirk at the few who choose to dress appropriately and, let’s say, take the trouble to tweeze.
While it is worth noting that one can go so far as to be well dressed and still be inappropriately clad for the workplace, it is better to be overdressed than poorly dressed. To have a sense of occasion is vital and a prerequisite to dressing appropriately and it will serve you well when faced with the distress of what to wear each day.
Shabby is So Not Chic
Just because you might be hesitant to invest too much time or money in an array of clothing for your professional life does not warrant you bumbling into work each morning clad in limp cargos and wrinkled shirts. If you do not want to spend much thought on what you wear, consider a few essentials with a small selection of thoughtful accessories for maximum impact with minimal effort.
The Little Black Dress
Why should the little black dress get all play and no work? OK, so it does not have to be little and not necessarily black, but a well tailored solid shift dress can command the right attention at the work place. You want your clothes to spell sophisticated and in-control and not encourage judgments on your character or sloppy slovenliness.
The Michelle O Cardigan
Jackets and cardigans are a great way to build on a simple dress. The First Lady is almost always seen in a cute cardie that is now her signature style. They are a great way to add a quick splash of color and interest. Since most office buildings tend to fluctuate in temperature, wearing an additional layer also serves a practical need by allowing you to better regulate your body temperature depending on how you feel.
Add a Belt
You can pick a broad or a narrow one in any material of your choice, depending on what goes best. Belts can accentuate a small waist or draw attention away from an undesirable body part. But there is a caveat: belts can minimize one part of your body while over emphasizing another. So be conscious of your choice and pick wisely.
Accessorize
Say no to the clunky charm bracelet in this instance or that hideous salamander brooch your grandmother gave you at Christmas. In fact, say no to reptiles altogether and do not over accessorize. Pick one focal piece, a bold chunky bracelet or a statement necklace, and use the other pieces to quietly complement your main choice.
Gotta Have the Shoes!
After all, what would Carrie Bradshaw be without her fabulous Minolos. Carrie who you ask? My point exactly. Do yourself a favor and go buy some decent shoes. For work, it’s best to avoid heels that are too high as you will be spending the majority of your day in them. Opt for an elegant mid-sized heel that you are comfortable in all day round. Closed toes are a no-brainer, but you can let your personality come though by changing it up every now and then: a slip-on back maybe or an occasional peep toe will keep it interesting. But remember, if you do show some toe cleavage, make an appointment with your pedicurist first.
Scarf it Up
It doesn’t have to be garish or worn like Grace Kelly. There are many different ways to wear one and several online websites that offer a brief tutorial on how to add some quick flair. Scarves are also an easy way to add interest and a pop of color.
Hem Your Pants
Unless your desk is situated on the grounds of the lower 9th ward, or you live in eternal fear of sudden flash flooding, highwater pants are inexcusable. When you purchase your trousers, keep in mind the height of the shoes you will be wearing and get your pants altered accordingly.
Wear Your Size!
Too small and close-fitting can be perceived as vulgar and lacking in taste, and too large could be mistaken for a parachute. If you are self-conscious, sizing down is not going to help allay any insecurities, it will only draw more attention to all the wrong places. Wear your proper size instead and focus on the tailoring and fit of what you are wearing to camouflage what you want to conceal.
Keep it In
Boobs, butt and gut that is. When you are disproportionately built, it could be touted as either your biggest asset or your deepest shame. Therefore there is no need to overemphasize. Choose clothing that is well made and that fits you well with fabrics that are sturdy and hold up well to a day's movement. Avoid cheap, slinky fabrics that pleat and bunch in the wrong places and add unflattering rolls and ridges.
Avoid over-perfumed body products. They can cause irritation to those with allergies, or just irritation in general. Perfume is personal, you do not need to spread it across the entire floor. Air fresheners are widely available to do that. Your fragrances should be distinct and subtle and should draw your audience in, not cause them to repel in disgust.
Above all, don't forget to be true to your personality. Add color to uplift your mood. Your style should be a natural extension of you and should make you feel comfortable and confident and ready to take on that big project.
Lynn Lewis - Lynn Lewis is a part-time French Instructor, former translator and interpreter living in Chicago, Illinois. An avid gourmet, home cook and ...
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