Business Fashion: How To Dress Chic For Work

Dressing in smart business attire doesn’t just help you look the part: it’s also been found to improve abstract thinking, which is key for creativity and long-term strategizing, Scientific American reports. When it comes to work, appearance matters. Striking the perfect balance between professional and chic can be challenging, but it’s possible as long as you follow some key basic principles.

 

Your business wardrobe isn’t the place to penny pinch. Investing in high-quality, staple pieces may initially seem expensive, but you’ll get plenty of wear out of them over the years — this results in a low cost per wear. So, when you’re shopping for new pieces, pay particular attention to the materials and craftsmanship, and aim for quality over quantity. It’s also just as important to take excellent care of your garments after you purchase them. That means getting them professionally cleaned on a regular basis. The right care can help you extend the life of your wardrobe considerably. 

 

When it comes to accessories in workplace fashion, less is always more. Accessories typically create a focal point for your outfit, and can end up either making or breaking your look — so choose wisely. For example, there’s no need to overdo it on the jewelry. Instead choose a single classic piece like a sapphire necklace. Sapphire gemstones offer a beautiful deep blue hue that can add an elegant sparkle to your look. Allow the stone to take center stage here: there’s no need to overwhelm it with other colors or stones. As an alternative to jewelry, opt for a designer handbag or briefcase. A chic, business-appropriate bag can elevate your look and fit all your work essentials.

 

Showing too much skin in the workplace is a big no-no. You can avoid doing this by ensuring your dresses and skirts are the right length: they should fall in line with the tops of your knees at minimum. Keep in mind that dresses and skirts may naturally move further up when you sit down, making them look even shorter. It’s also wise to avoid dresses or skirts with high slits. If you’re ever in doubt, take a look at your employee handbook to read up on the exact dress code for your workspace.

 

Assembling a chic business wardrobe can help you make a good impression at work. By following key style principles, you can easily dress for success.