Boss Basics: Dressing for your Dream Job
You’ve heard the advice before: Dress for the job you want, not the job you have. It’s sound advice. On the surface, it makes perfect sense. But in practice, it’s a bit trickier to pull off unless you really know what you’re doing. Case in point: the same exact blazer can send two very different signals if in one instance it’s perfectly tailored and in another it’s baggy and ill fitting. Same clothes, slight differences, big meaning.
Nobody starts out on top. Even the COO of Facebook, Sheryl Sandberg, had to start somewhere. Marissa Mayer, though she’s recently taken quite a reputational hit, started out grinding just like anybody else. Nothing can replace hard work and dedication. But if you want to stack the deck in your favor, looking the part can help tremendously.
Not sure where to start? Here are a few styling tips for 2018 for when you’re in and around the office.
Pump Up Your Color
Nix the neutral…tones, that is. Gray, black, or tan have their place in every wardrobe, but they don’t have to be your staples. A pop of blue, yellow, or pink goes a long way and pairs nicely with tailored slacks. Your shoes can offer up another source of color. Christian Louboutin’s have become famous for their red bottoms, but let’s be honest – we don’t all have that kind of coin to drop on a pair of heels. The good news is you don’t have to spend a fortune. Check out some ideas on Modcloth or similar sites.
Accessorize
Ditch the huge hoop earrings and stacks of multiple chunky necklaces that clank and clunk and generally annoy everyone in the office. Less is more. We’ll say it just one more time. Less. Is. More.
A great pair of pearl earrings can be your best friend. Studs are a safe bet, but you can also wear something that dangles. You can pick up necklaces online at a pretty steep discount compared to your local brick and mortar jewelry shop. Just make sure you know what you’re buying. A little research will pay off prior to plunking down your credit card, and be sure your new bling comes with some sort of authenticity certificate that clearly states the grade and quality of the gemstones you purchased. This is super important if you hope to avoid being scammed.
When it comes to bracelets, stay away from layering and stacking. It’s a cute look when appropriate – brunch, running errands, hanging out with the family, etc. – but it doesn’t work in the office as it can come off as a bit juvenile. While we’re on the subject, you don’t want to get too “blingy” with your bracelets, either. Skip the super flashy diamond tennis bracelets; jewelry should complement your style, not draw attention away from your work ethic and attitude.
Pattern Power
Polka dots and florals and stripes, oh my! Look to pinstripes and polka dots for a blouse easily pairs with a pencil skirt or tailored blazer. Don’t be afraid to go bold….but unless you work for a tech company or a business with a very laid back culture, it’s advisable to stay away from patterns that are generally considered to be a bit immature. Popular examples include pineapples, cats (ugh, don’t get us started), whales (we love preppy, but there’s a time and a place), etc. Save the bunnies, bears and bubblegum hearts for your PJs. These can send the wrong message.
Sensibly Sexy
Yes, it’s possible to pull off “professional sexy” in the workplace. It’s completely acceptable…with a few minor caveats. The key is to embrace the adage of iconic fashion designer and stylist Edith Head:
“Your dresses should be tight enough to show you’re a woman and loose enough to show you’re a lady.”
Leaving aside any patriarchal implications of using the term “lady”, the key word here is class. If you have curves and you want to show them off, do so in a tasteful way. It can be empowering. But be incredibly careful not to wear anything too revealing, as this can definitely send the wrong message.