As a woman, you have several choices when it comes to dressing for the office. While this makes things interesting, it can also make choosing an office-appropriate outfit more difficult. When it comes to choosing an outfit, your major goal is to look feminine and powerful, rather than overtly sexy or seductive.
Clothes
One of the best investments you can make is a quality blazer. A classic blazer, which goes well with slacks and a skirt, help make your outfit look professional. Choose neutral colors, like black, grey, brown and navy. When pairing a blazer with a camisole, make sure the camisole neckline is high enough so that excess cleavage is not exposed.
Professional woman have the option to wear pants or a skirt to work and both are equally appropriate when you make the right choices. Pants should be tailored to fit. They should not be too tight, too long or too short. Skirts should fall just above or below your knee. Skirts that fall at your thighs are not appropriate for the office.
Shoes
Choosing an appropriate office shoe may seem like the most daunting task because there are so many different styles available. Classic flats are acceptable for work, just make sure that you wear pants that are tailored for flats so that they don’t drag. The best heel choice is a classic pump with a one to two inch heel. Avoid stilettos, wedges and open-toed shoes. Leather and suede finishes are best. Choose neutral colors that complement your outfit. Save the bright, patent leather pumps for a night out with your girlfriends.
Accessories
Jewelry can help dress up your outfit, but at work, it should be understated. Choose simple, classic pieces, like stud or hoop earrings, a pearl necklace or a silver watch. Avoid jewelry that makes noise, like an armful of bangles. While you may enjoy hearing the clinking of your bangles, it is highly likely that the noise is driving your coworker insane.
If you carry a briefcase or a laptop case, choose a classic style made of brown or black leather. While many manufacturers try to target women by making bright pink laptop cases covered in flowers or hearts, these styles are not appropriate for work.
Casual Friday
Many offices now allow for casual Friday, a day on which you can wear “whatever you want”. Please keep in mind that the term casual means business casual, not running errands on an early Sunday morning casual. Although you can dress down a bit, you should still choose pieces that make you look put together.
Jeans are generally considered acceptable for casual Friday, but the style is important. Choose dark wash jeans without any holes, rips or embellishments that aren’t overly tight.
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