Revisiting Appropriate Office Attire, Finally!

In recent articles titled, Designers sober up with chic office wear and The wardrobe of TV’s career women both talk about how the economic climate is impacting what women wear to the office. Muted colors, minimal jewelry, and sensible heels are in and everything else is out. Now while I agree with what is considered in, I disagree with the implication that these ideas were ever “out.”

As an Image consultant, I work with many executives and regardless of the industry they work in; I always urge them to air on the conservative side in their wardrobe selections. My general rule is that anything you would wear on a weekend evening out, should be avoided in the workplace. Why? Because studies show that an opinion is formed about an individual within 7 seconds of a meeting so within the confines of an office environment, it’s critical to project (within those 7 seconds) a polished and professional image.

My top 10 list for inappropriate office looks:

1. Tracksuits or other work-out type outfits - just because your firm participates in casual Fridays doesn't mean they are suggesting you come in looking THAT casual!

2. Flip-flops, sneakers, open toe strappy sandals, stilettos and for all you croc loving folks, please leave these at home!

3. Visible art and body piercings - while I believe in self-expression, it's better kept for after work hours.

4. Plunging and revealing necklines (no cleavage should be showing), no midriff tops and finally, no tank tops, camisoles or any other shoulder or back revealing tops.

5. Mini-skirts, yes even with a pair of tights.

6. Excessive, Glittery Jewelry - statement necklaces (all the rage now) should be kept for weekend looks. However, if you are in a creative industry, this could be considered appropriate if not overly done. Additionally, avoid large dangling earrings and bangles. The point here is to never allow your accessories to distract from what you are saying.

7. Excessive make-up - keep the smoky eye for the weekend.

8. Fishnet stockings - even if Vogue deems them as a critical addition to your wardrobe, please keep them for the weekend.

9. Ill-fitting anything - nothing screams "I don't care about my look" more than an ill fitting jacket, pants, top or outerwear. The best investment in your wardrobe is a good tailor.

10. Barely dry hair and unkempt facial hair - I'm often sitting on the subway in the morning and notice so many women with damp hair heading to work. It's not just that it's damp, but the look is completely disheveled. Take a few more minutes and dry your hair completely! You never know who you will run into first thing in the morning. Additionally, men sporting a mustache or beard, please be sure to keep it well groomed.

So before you leave for the office in the morning, check to see if you are projecting a polished and professional look. If not, take a few more minutes to ensure you get it right.