While there are many trendy fashions available to the white collar workforce, resist temptations to wear attire that brings undue attention to yourself. Unless you are working for a fashion industry, your choice of attire for the office should follow the written or implied dress code. Your clothes should be comfortable and allow for known types of movements throughout the day. As a secretary or receptionist, you may be required to bend or stoop when filing. Your clothes should keep all body parts covered from neckline to hemline. Trendy sweaters and blouses that leave the mid rift uncovered are inappropriate for office attire.

Any clothing that is too tight or binding should never be worn to the office. Aside from being unattractive, ill fitting clothes are unprofessional. Shirttails and blouses meant to be worn tucked in, should be tucked in. Blue Jeans are never worn as office attire unless specific permission is given by the manager. In general, clothes you might wear to church are also suitable for office wear.

Your wardrobe need not be costly to be appropriate for work. Simple A-line dresses with unlined matching jackets and pencil skirts with sweaters are in style. A few pieces of clothes that can be mixed and matched to make several outfits will save money and make for quick and easy dressing for work. Men do not have to wear three-piece suits unless your career directly requires it. A dress shirt neatly tucked into dress slacks worn with casual loafers or dress shoes will make a good impression. Sneakers should not be worn by either sex. Neither sex should wear clothing that is so thin that standing in bright light would allow someone to see through what you are wearing. Undershirts and slips should be worn when needed. Ladies should always wear proper undergarments, including hose or socks as appropriate.

Neither your hair or your attire should warrant undue attention. Bright colors are fine as apart of your wardrobe, but don't overdo. Your personality should be the first thing that co-workers, clients, and the public notice about you. Any personal, religious, or political statements should never dictate your working wardrobe unless your religion requires that you cover more of your body than the average person. Fitting in makes the best impression and work ethic statement. Magazines are excellent sources for current styles and proper dress for work.

Learn more about this author, Barbara Stanley.
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