Professional Dress

First Impression First impressions are often the ones that last! Areas that have a HUGE impact on your image are – appearance – interpersonal interactions – written interactions

Dress Code Clothing is one of the most important non- verbal messages you send. Most people make decisions about a new person within the first thirty seconds of a two minute interaction.

Companies develop guidelines for appropriate attire for their work environment. Dress codes may range from business professional, to business casual, to casual. Usually the dress code is determined by how much contact the employees have with customers or clients.

When a business requires a professional dress code it is because they serve clients on a daily basis. You have to project the image of trustworthy, knowledgeable professional. Clients are seeking your guidance, input and services and how you dress promotes that image.

Who would you go to for answers?

Even if the day is casual, your image may effect promotions, lateral moves, and choice assignments later on. You appearance can set you apart from coworkers who are less concerned about projecting a successful, professional image.

Business Professional Dress DO’s Formal business environment requirements for men and women: suits, a jacket and pants or skirt and paired with appropriate accessories. Clothing should be pressed

Professional Dress “DONT’s” Clothing that reveals cleavage/chest your back your thighs your feet your stomach your underwear

Professional Dress “DONT’s” Clothes should NEVER Be tight (ex: leggings) Be wrinkled Be torn, dirty or frayed Have words, terms or pictures that may be offensive to other employees

Professional attire suggestions Adapted from Melissa Dylan Avoid flashy colors Styles should be classic, with nothing too trendy. A purple velvet suit is still a suit but not appropriate for an investment banker. – Professional vs. fashionable Accessories such as jewelry must be simple and traditional. Hair should be clean-cut and carefully styled. No messy hairdos or day old facial growth. Shoes for women should be closed toed heels or dressy flats, and men should wear nice polished shoes.

Business Casual These employees are dressed on the casual side of business casual. A casual workplace dress code does allow for some flexibility.

This is an example of an appropriate business casual outfit for women. A well-fitting blouse paired with slacks and finished with conservative heels.

Examples of different options for ladies business casual: button-downs, sweaters, turtlenecks, blouses. Woman can pair a blouse with a sweater or jacket. It is a clean, presentable look.

This is an appropriate business casual option for men. It still upholds a professional image; relaxed without looking like everyday street wear. A full suit is not necessary in a business casual environment.

Examples of different options for men’s business casual (depending on the employer): Dress shirts can be worn with or without a tie, under a sweater, or jacket. It must be pressed, wrinkle- free and in good condition. It should be tucked into dress pants/slacks and finished with a belt.

Casual days (usually Fridays) Khaki pants are appropriate (some employers allow jeans) Generally acceptable: -Company clothing -Sports team clothing -University clothing -Fashion brands on clothing (usually a small logo)

Dress Code for Manufacturing/Labor A company’s casual dress code allows employees to work comfortably and safely Clothing that reveals shoulders, back, midriff, legs or feet are typically not appropriate in the manufacturing work setting No dress code can cover all contingencies so employees must use judgment

Still unsure? The author suggests watching an episode of The Office. The wardrobe crew is paid to make them look work- appropriate.