General Tips

  • Make sure that your clothes are always clean and free of wrinkles and tears, no matter the dress code.
  • On the first day, it is always better to overdress than underdress. You can always take off a tie or blazer, or roll up your sleeves if you see that the environment is more casual.
  • Gauge the office environment before you wear items that are more casual, more fashionable, or more colorful.
  • For the first week, dress more conservatively until you get a feel for what other people are wearing.
    • Ensure that you are not showing too much skin. Do not wear anything too short, midriff-baring, or anything very low cut. Make sure that your socks are tall enough to not show skin when you sit down, if wearing socks.
  • Make sure that your hair and nails are always neat and well-groomed. This includes facial hair. In some conservative industries, facial hair may not be appropriate. Ensure that dyed hair is still a natural color.
  • Keep perfume/cologne to a minimum, or do not use it at all. Some people may have fragrance allergies.
  • When picking out garments, make sure to hold it to the light. Some garments may be slightly transparent and therefore require the appropriate undergarments such as a slip or an undershirt.
  • Be conservative with your jewelry/accessories. Make sure all bags, purses, and briefcases are professional in both color and style.
  • Be conservative with makeup and nail polish. Stick to subdued and neutral colors.
  • You are not expected to be able to afford the same quality of work attire as your supervisor.
    • Second-hand shops and inexpensive clothing stores like Forever 21 offer professional style clothes on a budget. However, you must ensure that the clothes fit well and are in good condition.
    • Aim to buy clothes with multiple uses and that can be worn in both business casual and more formal situations. Dark colors are the most versatile.