What Are You Wearing to Work?

One of the most common mistakes people make with their work wardrobe is dressing in a way that is too casual. Yes, it is comfortable but it can also portray you as someone who doesn’t take their work seriously. For example, if you visit your financial planner on a day where she is wearing clothing more appropriate for the beach, you will wonder if she will make appropriate decisions with your money and most likely take your money elsewhere.
Take a look at this picture. This mannequin is wearing a t-shirt and skirt paired with my version of a fancy flip flop. She looks great but is dressed in a very casual way.

Based on her outfit, what does she do?

A sales clerk? A Mom running errands? Someone on their day off?

Now look at this picture. This mannequin is wearing the same outfit paired with a jacket and more professional shoe.

Based on her outfit, what does she do?

Interior Design? Architect? Marketing expert? Web Designer?

Putting on a jacket and heel took a total of 3 seconds. What a difference it makes. Her new look is still casual but much more professional, giving her and her business credibility and interest.

What are you wearing to work?

As you build your work wardrobe, it is important to think about which pieces you need to invest in, and which pieces you can save on. Investment pieces for work are a great suit, jacket, dress, classic trouser, and classic skirt. You can save and be more budget friendly with blouses, shoes, and accessories.

Your investment pieces are the ones that are:

1. The highest quality you can afford.
2. Wearable for at least three seasons of each year.
3. Compatible with many other pieces in your present and future wadrobe.
4. Timeless in style.

If you remember these parameters you will start to build your core wardrobe. The investment pieces are basics that you should spend most of your clothing budget on.

“The basic wardrobe is the core of any fashion scheme, and it is hard to be consistently well dressed unless some all-over plan built around such a core is used. The items in the basic wardrobe…are the really good things you buy to wear for a long time and to combine with other things that may be more frivolous and of the moment.”

-Todd Lyon

Networking is one of the most important activities you can do for the success of your business. Your appearance is a big part of your networking success. You are your brand, and your look is your logo. Your look will help you sell your product or services. Before you can sell anything, you have to sell yourself. A polished appearance is no longer considered frivolous or egotistical. In the business world it is a requirement for success. Before your next networking meeting, take the time to make sure you have put the same attention and detail into yourself as you do for your company.

Top 10 Clothing Mistakes Commonly Seen at Networking Events

1. Dowdy or outdated clothing:  If your clothing looks old or outdated, people will automatically assume your way of doing business is also outdated and should be passed by.

1. Clothing that is too revealing:  It is hard to appear professional in clothing that is too revealing. Even if the networking event is at night, a plunging neckline (this goes for both men and women) may not be appropriate.

1. Too casual or comfortable clothing:  Dressing too casually often translates as lazy. You may be the hardest working individual in the room, but your clothing is saying the opposite.

1. Forgetting that details matter:  The details of your clothing paint a picture about the character of both you and your business. Wrinkled pants and scuffed shoes will not give a potential client the confidence you can handle the details of her complex business.

1. Wearing clothing with slogans, logos, or prominent brand names other than your own:  After all, who are you working for?

1. Clothing that doesn’t make sense for your audience:  Think about who you will be networking with before getting dressed. Will your audience respond better to your branded polo shirt or a very classic and professional button down?

1. Clothes that don’t fit or flatter:  Clothing that is too tight can look trashy and cheap. Clothing that is too big looks sloppy and unprofessional. Discover how to dress your body type and wear clothing that fits.

1. Ultra trendy clothing:  Clothing that is ultra trendy can look costumey at a networking event. Unless you are in the fashion industry, stick to classic pieces that are infused with elements of your own personal style.

1. Clothing that doesn’t make sense for the industry you are in: Your clothing should make you look as if you are a credible member of your industry. Your clothes tell potential clients that you belong and are successful at what you do.

10. Clothing you don’t feel confident in: The right clothes will make you feel invincible, allowing you to sell your product or services with confidence.

Don’t let your style hold you back at work. Learn how to create a versatile wardrobe and dress for success by joining me for “Dress for Success on Any Budget,” a free teleseminar on Wednesday, June 17, 2009. For more details or to sign up, please visit http://www.getgreatstyle.com/dfs.html.