How to master a professional and casual look for the office.
Sometimes one can find it challenging to achieve the perfect casual look for the office. If office settings permit, you can achieve the ideal balance between comfort and polished attire as well as how to display your personality without going overboard in relaxed or casual dress codes.
- The Dress code
To ensure your look is appropriate:
- You CAN’T rock up in jeans and a t-shirt, you will appear sloppy.
- Try to incorporate more relaxed, comfortable pieces while keeping it professional. The rule of thumb is if you feel that your outfit is too casual, it probably is.
- Never wear anything torn, ripped, revealing, stained, wrinkled, or too tight.
- If in doubt, observe the attire of someone you admire in the organization, particularly your superiors, and follow suit.
- The Fabric
Fit is everything – if it doesn’t fit well, it will instantly detract from your professional image. Choose items that you can move easily in rather than items that are very stiff or structured. If you still like to have a little structure in an outfit, make sure you balance the look with something more casual to avoid looking too corporate or stuffy -i.e. pair a crisp cotton shirt back with denim.
- Go for lighter, breathable materials like cotton tops, soft, lightweight knits, or jersey fabrics
- If opting for denim, go for mid-dark denims which appear more professional than really light washes
Avoid: overly textured or chunky sweaters, very loose/oversized clothing, leggings, or any type of athletic fabric that can easily appear too casual
3.Third pieces jazz up an outfit.
- Think of your pants and top, skirt and, top, or dress as your first two pieces.
- Then, add your third piece, which can be another item such as a blazer, leather jacket, denim jacket, card, in, or wrap.
- Alternatively, the third piece can be an accessory, such as a scarf or bold piece of jewelry.
- Accessories and Shoes
- Think of your pants and top, skirt, and top, or dress as your first two pieces.
- Then, add your third piece, which can be another item such as a blazer, leather jacket, denim jacket, cardigan, or wrap.
- Alternatively, the third piece can be an accessory, such as a scarf or bold piece of jewelry.
- Grooming
The importance of grooming can be emphasized enough when it comes to mastering the art of dressing casually yet professionally, and I firmly believe it’s one of the most critical aspects of achieving this balance.
- A light makeup look enhances your natural features and is ideal for more laid-back days.
- Ensuring your hair is neatly styled adds to the overall polished appearance and stain-free clothes are a must.
- Don’t overlook your nails; keeping them in good condition adds that final touch of sophistication.