How to Make the Office Dress Code Work for You  

Your image is important. Your appearance gives others a peek into your personality before you ever say a word. It can shape other’s perceptions of you from your attitude and approachability to the roles they believe you can fill. It also impacts you! Most women feel more confident when they know they look polished and poised.

That’s one of the reasons women’s magazines, blogs, and career coaches emphasize the importance of professional dress. I’ve waved the banner as well. I’ve put a strong emphasis on dressing for success as I have mentored young women in the workplace and in some cases sent staff members home when I felt they were inappropriate. I have invested in the success of mentees by purchasing basic wardrobe essentials to jumpstart their collection and assist them in creating a professional image.

How much of yourself should you mask to conform to society’s dress code for professional women? It’s a question I’ve asked myself and posed to others: Should you suppress your creativity and self expression to ensure you fit the visual expectations of a successful businesswoman?

The answer, I believe, isn’t a hard yes or a firm no. However, some guidelines, I believe, may help us all make better decisions about our professional images.

Follow the Rules 

The very first tip is to use rules as a guideline, but be willing to fight to change them if necessary. If your organization has a dress code, try to stick to it. An employee who doesn’t follow the code may be perceived as setting a bad example for her team and highlighting that she doesn’t have the ability to follow policies. The way you look isn’t only a glimpse into your personal style, but it’s also a reflection of your company’s brand. You represent the organization. However, some rules should absolutely be challenged. If the dress code doesn’t allow for religious dress, it should be challenged, since laws are in place to protect that right. Similarly, if the rules are discriminatory or unreasonable, know the law, stand up for yourself, and be the change maker who creates a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Balance the Brand

I attended Catholic school from kindergarten through high school. I was required to wear a school uniform for ten years. Although my wardrobe consisted of only a few drab options, my personal style was always on display. I had little control of the actual clothing style, so I took advantage of the opportunity to find unique shoes, handbags, jewelry, and accessories that represented my unique style.

This approach to self expression served me well as I transitioned into adulthood and the workforce. I find that I can purchase basics that work well within my organization’s culture and dress them up with pieces that reflect my personal style, such as a beautiful printed scarf, unique heels, bold colors, or statement necklaces. I use color and accessories to showcase my personal and unique aesthetic.

Be a reflection of your organization’s brand, but take the opportunity to highlight your own personal brand and style. Keep this in mind when it comes to hair and makeup as well. Experiment but be mindful of the rules. Try a bold lip with a natural makeup look or braids and buns instead of hairstyles that aren’t allowed. One woman I know used temporary hair dye and chalk on the weekends and during vacation for a fun look that didn’t cause issues on the job. Another friend wears a signature red lipstick with her work wardrobe when she wants to feel empowered!

Remember every workplace is unique. What works at an art gallery may not cut it at an investment firm. Find the balance that works for you within your organization’s culture.

Keep It Covered

Women have come a long way when it comes to self expression. We’ve shed the corsets and more recently ditched the pantyhose in many workplaces in lieu of less restrictive policies and more casual careerwear. We are all thankful for that here in Texas when the temperatures creep into the 90s. However, even though we have made great strides in freeing ourselves of the clothing of the past, too much freedom isn’t suggested for the workplace.

Women should be comfortable, but we should also be mindful that our clothing shouldn’t be too revealing. While the way you dress shouldn’t be a reflection of who you are and doesn’t give anyone a license to mistreat you, it should be appropriate for the workplace. Too much skin, low-cut tops and micro-mini skirts may be a distraction from the good work you are doing in your company. You have a right to dress as you wish within the confines of the code, but my advice is to keep it covered and set a business tone with your attire.

Don’t Break the Bank

Looking like a million bucks doesn’t have to cost a million dollars. Don’t allow the costs of clothing keep you from putting your best foot forward when it comes to professional attire. Many discount and affordable chain stores are now selling clothes designed for professional women.

H&M has a section that features blazers, blouses, suits, and work separates at a very low cost. I’ve purchased blazers on sale for as low as $20 with skirts to match for just $10. New York and Company often has low-cost suits and separates for professionals on sale. Consider shopping the clearance racks of your favorite department stores. Browse the sale sections at Target, Express, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Lane Bryant, or Torrid or shop outlet malls.

If those options don’t fit your budget, and you are in need of an ensemble for an interview or work, consider some of the clothing closet organizations like the non-profit Dress for Success that offer professional clothes to women who need a little helping hand.

Use the tips above to put together an amazing new look for work and create your signature style for the office.