First impressions count.
Almost 70 percent of Americans will form a first impression of someone else before that individual even speaks.
When it comes to the workplace, first impressions are even more important. You never know who you’ll meet or when you’ll need to impress your employer.
For the most success, you should strive to look as professional as possible – and with the following guide we’ve created, it will be a breeze!
Read on for great tips to craft your perfect professional wardrobe.
Invest in Timeless Pieces
Fashion is a constantly evolving industry, and it’s easy to get swept up in what’s new and popular. But for the most professional wardrobe, you should invest in pieces that stand the test of time.
There are a few work wardrobe essentials that you’ll find yourself wearing again and again.
- black blazer
- simple short-sleeve dress
- black pumps
- neutral loafers
- pencil skirt
- neutral trousers
- plain button-up blouse
- dark denim
- little black dress
The most important word to keep in mind here is neutral. You want pieces that you can mix and match regardless of your mood, the season, or the event.
And your neutrals don’t have to be boring! Check out this list of what Vogue editors are wearing to the office.
You’ll notice that the vast majority of their color scheme include variations of black, white, and tan. Blue is also a great neutral – a pair of jeans or a deep blue sweater can add some class to your outfit while remaining a staple piece in an ever-elegant wardrobe.
Choose Your Color Scheme
But if neutrals aren’t your thing, you can still build a wardrobe of professional work outfits that consist of bright colors and interesting patterns.
The trick is to choose a color scheme as the base for your wardrobe to keep everything you own looking cohesive.
Choose your color scheme by selecting 3 neutrals (any shades of black, grey, and brown), one light color (such as white or cream), one accent color, and at least one shade of denim. You’ll have a total of about 6 core colors.
Make sure that every single item you buy looks good with at least 4 of those core colors. By doing this, you’ll ensure that you have enough choices in your current wardrobe to create an outfit that looks good before you actually purchase anything.
You’ll also look more professional if the colors you do wear flatter your natural coloring.
If you have cool skin, choosing a wardrobe of cool-toned colors will ensure that almost everything goes with one another. If you have warm skin, the same goes for warmer colors.
Pay Attention to the Details
While a color or pattern may be the first thing you may notice about an item, it’s the small details that will tip you off to whether it’s a good addition to your professional wardrobe.
Notice any unkempt threads or loose buttons? It’s a sign that this item isn’t built to last. It will look out of place next to your expensive pencil skirt or designer pumps.
It’s also wise to take a close look at zippers and seams. A crooked seam may not draw your attention at first – you may not even be able to identify it.
But once you get dressed, that seam will diminish the overall look of your outfit, even if you can’t put your finger on the exact cause.
Focus On Quality Over Quantity
The fashion industry has convinced many of us that more is always better. The more pieces you own, the more options you’ll have for creating the perfect outfit.
But it’s not the amount of clothing that you own that will give you a professional look. It’s the quality of the items you have.
A high-quality item will give you numerous choices for creating your outfit.
For instance, take a well-made button-up. You can open it up and wear it as a cardigan, layer it under a vest, throw it on over a dress to cover your shoulders, or tie it at the waist over high-waisted trousers and under a leather jacket.
Because of its quality, it will be able to stand you wearing as often as multiple times a week. You’ll be able to cuff it, tie it, and layer it without worrying about loose threads or worn-out fabric.
Choose the Right Accessories
The same goes for accessories. With the right pieces, you’ll always look professional without having to frequent the jewelry store.
Choose accessories that match every outfit by selecting one color that you will always wear. Purchase a bag, hat, shoes, and belt in the same color. They’ll be easy to add to any outfit and provide an elegant finishing touch.
Go for a consistent color scheme with your jewelry, too. Silver tends to look better on cool skin, and gold looks better on warmer skin.
Investing in high-quality accessories doesn’t have to be too expensive either. Second-hand collectable watches are a great way to elevate your look. Even brands like Cartier and Rolex can be found for a price model that is best for you.
Dress for Comfort
Comfortable work outfits are instantly more professional. Think of the last time that you wore shoes to work that hurt your feet, or a pair of pants that were too tight.
You probably spent most of your day feeling uncomfortable. You may have complained to a coworker. And your clients and boss may have noticed you frequently adjusting your heels or messing with the waist on your trousers.
When you’re at ease in your clothing, you immediately look more relaxed and confident. You’ll be in the right mindset to get to work.
A Professional Wardrobe: The First Step
Creating a professional wardrobe is just the first step to transforming your presence in the workplace.
Visit our blog to learn more about productivity and tech tips to make you the most successful and hard-working you possible.
