Monday, October 14, 2013

Corporate Dressing For Women


First impressions mean a lot, especially in the business world. Appearance is the first article people see. The latest buzzword of today's corporate world is "power dressing." Power dressing increases confidence and gives a sense of authority. 


Here are some useful Business Corporate Dressing tips for Women.  These days, when women are equally comfortable chairing boardroom meetings, corporate dressing has taken on a whole new meaning. Here are a few wardrobe musts.


1. Treat your business clothing as an investment and choose wisely. Make sure you buy classic styles that suit your body shape, are comfortable, have quality workmanship and quality material. This is no time to try the latest fads. Take your time and shop around for the best price and the best service. Be aware of the return policy and if possible, purchase your wardrobe items at a store that can do professional alternations if necessary. 

Button down collared tops with a nice feminine cut makes a great style statement. Tops and blouses with long, short or cap sleeves can be mixed and matched with several bottoms. Stock up on lots of camisoles and tank tops to be layered under jackets, coats, sweaters or button downs. Make sure your blouses are not too low cut or tight.


2. For business/corporate situations match your handbag, shoes and belt. Black shoes should be matched with a black handbag. This is not a time to get creative with your accessories or to wear colored shoes. Slacks come in a variety of cuts from relaxed to wide leg styles. Make sure you try them on first to ensure they fit properly. A pair of pants that fits when standing barefoot will look very different when worn with a pair of heels. Hence, it's advisable to try your pants when you buy them, with the footwear you intend to wear.


3. Do not neglect your outerwear. Purchase a good quality coat that can be worn with either pants or a skirt. For cooler weather don't neglect your outdoor footwear. For skirts choose long knee-high boots. Pinstriped suit in a corporate setting is very classic. Choose conservative colors such as blacks, grays and browns. To add a touch of color you can perhaps wear a pastel-colored shirt underneath your blazer.


4. Keep shoes and boots in a good state of repair. Scuffed shoes with worn heels will ruin the look of your outfit. Consider what role your feet play in your work. If your job involves walking and standing, such as giving presentations, ensure that your shoes won't fail you. If you prefer heels opt for wider, thicker heels such as wedges which provide your feet with more support. Also, keep your shoes in a good state as worn-out heels will ruin the look of your attire.


5. To complete your look choose soft leather gloves that will add a nice touch as well as keep your hands from getting chapped. Keep your accessories to a minimum. A pair of earrings, a simple pendant or broach and a classic watch can keep your look polished and professional. If there are belt loops, make sure you wear a good quality leather belt. Never wear flashy or colorful belts with your business attire. If you love wearing your hair long, consider wearing a classic ponytail or the front part pulled up and off your face.


6. Choose clothing material that reflects the season. Heavy fabrics and tweeds are best for Fall and Winter and will look out of place during Summer, as light linen fabrics will look out of place during Winter. In a business or corporate setting, it's recommended that you match your handbag, belt and shoes. If you are carrying a black handbag, match it with black shoes as it's not the time to go creative with accessories and colors.

7. Always wear a belt where there are belt loops. Choose a good quality leather belt and don't be tempted to wear a flashy or plastic belt. If you don't like belts choose pants without loops.

No comments: