Office workers know that apart from doing a good job, one’s appearance has a lot of impact in the workplace. Dressing professionally is vital for success in the office, but doing so can be quite expensive as those power suits do not come cheap. However, there are various ways to look stylish in the office without spending a fortune on designer outfits.
Here are some tips on how to achieve office chic, for less.
Check out inexpensive pieces at department stores- Many people seem to think that only designer suits and separates would look good in the office. However, there are a lot of inexpensive options out there from shops such as Banana Republic, The Gap, Zara, and Target that would be appropriate and stylish for the office.
Invest in key pieces in the same color family- Women can get the most mileage out of their wardrobe by buying a blazer, skirt, and trousers in the same color and mixing it up with different tops and accessories. A chic skirt suit or trouser suit in charcoal grey, beige, or black is always chic and appropriate. Also, make sure that clothes fit well. Nothing says office rookie like ill-fitting clothes.
Check the quality of each new purchase- Shiny fabric that’s not meant to be shiny or knits with loose weaves are signs of poorly made clothing. Buttons that appear to be falling off or zippers that don’t zip well shouldn’t have a place in one’s wardrobe.
Accessorize in a tasteful manner- Ladies should resist from piling on the bracelets, necklaces, or rings in the workplace. A simple and elegant watch, a pair of drop or stud earrings, a thin bracelet, and no more than two rings should suffice. For men, invest in a good watch, a pair of cufflinks, two leather belts in black and brown, and four neckties.
Remember that shoes can make or break the whole outfit- Men should have two pairs of leather shoes (black and brown), and these should be polished and cleaned daily. Ladies can also get away with just two pairs of heeled shoes (black and beige), and keep in mind that a classic pump would be the ideal shoe for the office.
A sturdy and well-made bag completes the look- Ladies should invest in a leather or faux leather bag in a structured shape for the office. Mango, Forever 21, Topshop, Zara, Nine West, and H&M carry a wide variety of bags that would be just right for the office.
Meanwhile, men should trade in the briefcase for a leather messenger bag for a more modern look. Check out Herschel Supply, Fossil, and Kenneth Cole for some great looking options which won’t break the bank.
Good grooming is a must- Men and women should pay attention to their grooming and hygiene. Ladies should go for a flattering and unfussy hairstyle, minimal makeup to emphasize facial features, and a light and fresh scent if one is so inclined to wear perfume or cologne. As for men, hair and facial hair should be kept neat and well-groomed, and fingernails should be trimmed.
For more tips, check out Jobs & Hire’s tips on how to makeover your career the Kim Kardashian way.
