by Caminie Mahadeo

Created on: June 29, 2009

Attire for the office in these times is very different from what was acceptable a few years ago. Today's workforce is into trendy fashions some of which can be quite 'interesting' as far as office wear is concerned.

There are some basic guidelines to observe when dressing for work:

Stick with simplicity

What type of impression do you want to create? Do you want to appear competent and professional or sexy and voluptuous? For the office, it is important that you take into consideration the image you want to project. You want to be respected by your peers, bosses and your subordinates. It is very difficult to gain respect if you are dressed in a form fitting pair of trousers especially if your underwear is visible as well. People respond to others very differently depending on your attire. Suitable attire for men can be long or short sleeved cotton shirts in neutral colors with neutral or dark colored trousers with or without a tie. Some offices have dress codes for meetings with clients so you may need to always keep a blazer handy for that impromptu meeting. For the ladies, dresses, skirts and trousers are all acceptable. A severity of a jacket or blazer can be softened with a feminine blouse or a shirt in a soft or neutral color. One should definitely stay away from bright colors and very tight or revealing clothing. Blouses, shirts and tops for women should not enhance cleavage. For men, chest hair should be left to the imagination.

The fit

Your clothing should fit well. Clothing which is either too tight or too baggy has the same impression. Your clothes should say that you are a neat and tidy individual. If your clothes are ill-fitting then one may tend to think that you do not take pride in how you present yourself. Is this an indication of how you will do your work? If you look sloppy, then will your reports be shoddy and incorrect? Take pride in your appearance and your work.

Jewelry

For men, jewelry can be just a watch and one ring. Appearing for work with five dangly gold chains and a ring on each finger does not say professional. The same goes for women, jewelry should be tasteful therefore earrings which are not shoulder length or huge hoops equivalent to bracelets are great. Rings are acceptable in keeping with what was said about men's rings and chains should be a maximum of two. Bracelets should be kept to a minimum because your hands are most important at work. Huge bracelets and bangles can be distracting at meetings and could be quite

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