No matter what industry you’re in, there will come a time when a professional outfit is needed. Your outfit helps form first impressions and indicates your level of professionalism while also expressing your personal style. This can seem like a lot of pressure, but anyone can put together an appropriate wardrobe with a little patience. Here’s how!
Do Your Research
Don’t start your research by looking up basic professional outfits. You need to fit the dress code of your industry and the events you’re looking to wear your new outfits to. If you’re going to a networking dinner, try looking on social media for images of previous dinners to see what everyone is wearing. If you’ve ever toured other company offices, what is the typical dress code? Exciting new business trends can pop up all the time, so you don’t want to be caught out of the loop. Doing a little preliminary research can help you decide which pieces are necessary and which ones you can avoid.
Consider Function
Depending on your business, function could be very important to your daily wardrobe, and possibly during professional events as well. In this case, you’ll possibly need clothes that won’t rip or stain during activities you do often. All professionals should consider comfort first, as it can be difficult to perform well if you’re constantly adjusting itchy or too-tight clothes. Some business owners will need to work with clients or in the field, so light, breathable clothes will be useful for travel. Keep in mind that some outfits feel fine when standing, but can be uncomfortable when sitting. When deciding to buy each piece, consider how much wear you’ll actually get out of it, and if it can handle some basic daily tasks in your workplace.
Discover What You Like
Before you start buying new clothes, take some time to figure out what you actually like. Take inspiration from the internet or magazines, and don’t be afraid to cut out images and make an inspiration board. Finding color palettes, textures, and designs can all help you narrow down your personal style. Some settings don’t allow for anything too bold, but a unique accessory or splash of color can make you stand out while still being professional. Plus, when you like something, you’ll actually be excited to wear it instead of letting it gather dust in the back of your closet. Work clothes can get expensive, especially for high-quality pieces, so choose items you love!
Ask a Professional
If you’re nervous about picking items yourself, you can always ask a professional to set you on the right path. A professional stylist can help you learn which colors compliment your skin tone and which styles complement your body type. They can give you tips and tricks while you’re shopping and help you find pieces within your budget. Some stylists will have experience dressing others in your industry as well, so they’ll know exactly where to start when building your wardrobe.
Outsource Your Shopping
There are many style companies that will ask you to fill out a questionnaire before they send you a curated box of clothes based on your answers. You aren’t forced to keep items you don’t want, and you might even like some pieces you never would have picked out for yourself. There’s no need to drive to a store or buy online and hope that it fits. You also get to style the pieces in the comfort of your own home, allowing you to see how they fit with clothes you already own. That statement piece may be nice, but do you want to have to buy a whole new outfit to go with it?
While your appearance isn’t everything, a good first impression is a great way to get your foot in the door to potential opportunities. When you look good, you feel good, and that confidence can power you through untold networking opportunities and presentations as you grow in your career.
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