On the TV show "What Not to Wear," the clothes-minded hosts strive to save fashion victims from themselves. The misguided dressers featured on the show have their wardrobes mercilessly critiqued and then watch as their outdated, inappropriate or ill-fitting gear is tossed into the trash. In addition to being reprimanded for their questionable taste, they also (fortunately) receive garment-related guidance and brand-new duds.
In most workplaces, there is at least one employee who would be well-served by a "What Not to Wear"-inspired attire overhaul. The following examples of fashion faux pas, for instance, are from a Robert Half International survey of executives who were asked to describe the wackiest wardrobe malfunctions they've seen from staff or job applicants: "A job candidate showed up for an interview in a new suit -- with the price tags still hanging from the sleeve." "A colleague had lost a lot of weight, and when he got up to shake hands, his pants fell down." "A candidate came to his interview wearing sunglasses and licking a lollipop. He commented to the hiring manager, 'This is my style, you can take it or leave it.'"
Other off-the-mark office attire included pajamas, a yoga outfit, a fur skirt, paratrooper pants and "shoes that light up when you walk."
While these are extreme examples of what not to wear at work, all professionals can benefit by paying close attention to their office outfits. In fact, in a separate Robert Half survey, 93 percent of managers said a person's style of dress influences his or her chances of earning a promotion; one-third of respondents said on-the-job attire "significantly" affects an employee's advancement prospects. Keep in mind that while impeccable style won't necessarily land you a promotion, dressing inappropriately could cost you one.
Here are some general guidelines on what -- and what not -- to wear at work.
Dress up a level. "Dress for the position you would like to achieve" is a good rule to remember. Take cues on your fashion choices from how the managers at your organization dress. "Looking the part" will help your supervisor visualize you in the role you seek.
Understand that skin is not in. If you have to ask yourself if an article of clothing is work-appropriate, it probably isn't. When in doubt, play it safe. For example, avoid revealing items, including tank tops, low-rise jeans, midriff-baring shirts and short skirts. Don't flip-flop. Don't let your professional image slip just because the lazy, hazy days of summer are here. Even on Casual Fridays, save the beach bum uniform of Flip-flops, board shorts, Hawaiian shirt and headphones for the beach or pool.
Be a good sport. Stay in the game by avoiding any type of athletic wear in the office. If you have a Pilates class or a tennis match scheduled after work, pack clothes to change into after work. Don't push buttons. With campaigns for the 2008 election well underway, remember that political viewpoints don't belong in the workplace. Regardless of how passionate you are about a particular candidate or issue, avoid headaches and controversy by not wearing buttons that promote your political beliefs.
Iron out the details. Even the nicest, most professional outfit can look sloppy and unattractive when wrinkled. Before you leave the house, make sure your clothes are free of creases, stains and lint.
Dressing for success in the workplace does not require big bucks or televised consultations with fashion experts. You also don't need to abandon your unique sense of style completely. By simply understanding the importance of how you dress, exercising good fashion judgment and erring on the side of caution, you can create a polished image that will only help your career.
Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 350 offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com. Copyright 2008 Robert Half International.
