When You Must Look Your Best
Welcome back!
The job market is rough right now. Wither you have a job or are looking for a job, now is the time to dress the part. It is commonly known that you should always dress above the current position that you have. These tips will help with the interview wardrobe as well. Employers look for people that are qualified and look the part.
Here are my top five tips for dressing for an office, without breaking the bank:
Know What You Need to Buy:
Take a look in your closet and see what you already own. When you are considering clothing for work purposes, make sure that it fits correctly. Do not wear clothing that is too tight or baggy. All work clothing must clean and ironed when worn. Never wear clothing that is dirty or stained.
Now that you have established what you do or do not have in your current wardrobe, you will know what you need to shop for. Everyone needs a good business suit. I would also suggest a well fitted button down shirt or two. Don’t forget that dressing the part does include shoes too. Make sure they are appropriate and are dress shoes.
The Thrift Store
When I got my first corporate job, my wardrobe did not fit the part. However, I did not want to go out and spend a ton of money on clothing right away. I did not want to spend my whole paycheck on clothing. Also keep in mind, this might not be the best place to by dress shoes.
There are lots of options at thrift stores and consignment shops. The most important things to keep in mind when you shop at these places, is to make sure that the articles of clothing fit you well and are clean. I was able to purchase quite a few button down shirts at the thrift store. It is fun to get carried away in the thrift shop with so many possibilities, but keep your choices conservative. Stay away from loud colors and patterns at first.
Kohl’s
I have been told that Kohl’s has a wonderful business casual department. I have never looked there myself but, I have heard this tip many times. Kohl’s is great because they have really good sales on occasion. Plus, you can try on the clothing before you buy it, which you sometimes can’t when in a resale shop.
The nice thing about shopping at a store like Kohl’s is that you can by lots of clothing that coordinates with each other. You can also buy shoes there too, and dress socks and stockings for the ladies. You can also enlist the help of staff, that have helped many dress for work. The beauty of a place like Kohl’s, is it can be a one stop shop. I have also been told that the clothing and shoes are very reasonably priced.
Outlet Malls:
This can be a wonderful trick. After being hired at my first corporate job, I was at a lose of where to buy a good suit. I could buy separates that the thrift store, but I was not able to find a good suit. Hence the trip to the outlet mall. I am lucky to have two within driving distance. Both malls have lots of stores which cater to to corporate client.
I found a United Colors of Benton outlet nearby. This store was perfect for me. They specialized in women’s suiting. I like this store because not only were the prices reasonable, but the suiting fashions were perfect for a range of ages. For the first time, I found a suit that was not matronly and fit me well. The staff was wonderful and friendly. I bought two suits on my first trip for under $300.
The following Monday when I wore one of my new suits to the office, I was flooded with complements. Furthermore, I mixed and matched the pieces of the suits with other things in wardrobe. I soon noticed what a big difference these two suits had made. Now it may be my imagination but, I felt more respected and taken more seriously on the days that I wore one of these suits. I would consider the investment of a good suit as a necessity.
Be the Whole Package
Now that you have the perfect wardrobe, make sure the rest of you looks nice too. Make sure that you hair is combed and styled in a conservative manner. While your mohawk maybe super cool with your friends, it will not as well received with potential employers. I would also suggest taking out piercing other than the ear piercing.
As for jewelry make sure it is appropriate. Keep you jewelry simple. Make sure that it accents your ensemble, not distracts from it. A strand of simple pearls always works well for women. For men I would suggest a nice pair of cufflinks or a simple tie clip.
As for make up for the ladies, make sure it is simple and tasteful. I would stay away from bright colors. Go for a natural look.
Believe it or not, your nails matter for both sexes. For men make sure your nails are well groomed, don’t bite them and make sure they are clean underneath. For ladies, make sure your nails do not have chipped nail polish. If you do want to have manicured nails, make sure that you choose a conservative style. It is guaranteed that you will shake someone’s hand during the interview process, or on a daily basis while working in an office, so make sure that you nails look professional.
Good luck to all of you out there in the job market who are looking to either move up the corporate latter or take the first step onto it. A solid resume will get you in the door, but remember you are an entire package. Employers will hire people who are not only qualified, but look the part as well. Good Luck to you all!
Related Posts
Comments
Leave a Reply
