Are you starting a new job? Congratulations! Chances are you’ve already thought about your office outfit. But what suits you best?
It doesn’t matter what job you have, dressing presentably is still important. After all, you not only want to make a well-groomed impression towards your colleagues, but also customers. Yet, the concept of office clothing has become more flexible. Dress codes differ significantly based on industry, region, and company. In addition, there is a lot of choice when it comes to business attire. In this article, we’ll help you find the way to office attire that will get you started confidently.
What is an office outfit anyway?
Simply put, an office outfit consists of garments that you wear specifically for work. Nevertheless, it is not a work outfit like a uniform because you can wear your business attire just fine outside the office. The main function of office attire is representation of the organization through the employee. Here comes immediately a point of discussion. Where men used to work at the office in a (three-piece) suit, nowadays there is more room to show your personal taste. However, this is usually within an established framework.
What style of clothing suits you best?
But what do you wear? That depends on the expectations about you and your position. This is a good topic to discuss during your application or introduction! Still, it is mainly a matter of intuition. You will automatically dress more formally when you regularly visit customers or welcome visitors. In addition, you can take example from your immediate colleagues; what do they wear and what combinations are popular in your department? Roughly speaking, you can divide office outfits for men into the following styles:
Casual
In some start-ups and industries it’s not the habit to come to the office in business attire. The rule of thumb is ‘informal but well-groomed’. You won’t hear anyone complain if your clothes are clean and well-maintained. This means that your outfit has no holes, loose threads and (intentional) wear and tear spots. At this kind of organization, it’s no problem to combine a cool pair of jeans with a T-shirt and sneakers.
Smart casual
This is a relaxed clothing style where you combine casual clothes with some business elements. For example, men regularly dress in stylish jeans with a polo or pullover. In addition, you can choose to wear crisp sneakers underneath. However, take the time to think about textures and colors; don’t give the impression that you randomly pulled something out of your closet.
Business casual
This is a business clothing style that is less formal in nature. This means that you don’t wear a tie and you even leave the top button of your button-down shirt open. Jeans are a no go, so chinos are an excellent alternative. You can also opt for a relaxed jacket. It is not advisable to wear wide or loose clothing. In addition, swap your sneakers for neat shoes.
Business professional
This is a more formal way of dressing than business casual. You are expected to wear a tie with a pair of formal trousers and matching jacket. The colors are also more subdued and less bright. The shirt is usually a light color, especially white or light blue. Try to coordinate color tones (for example, dark blue with light blue) for the best results. With this, you wear polished men’s shoes.
Business formal
This is the most formal style of dress and common in law firms and the financial sector. In these organizations, men usually wear a dark suit with light-colored shirt and sometimes a waistcoat. Still, you have freedom of choice. For example, subtle lines and patterns are not uncommon. In addition, neutral colors such as blue, brown, and gray can be perfectly combined with pastel colors. Ideal for stylish accessories such as ties and pocket squares.
The do’s and dont’s of office outfits for men
You’ve chosen an office outfit that suits you perfectly. Nice! Of course, you will continue to add your own interpretation to your business attire. An outfit is not static you see. It changes with your development as a professional and the occasion for which you dress. Stick to who you are as a person. People notice immediately when you are wearing something you are not comfortable with. Still, there are aspects you should keep in mind to always leave a good impression:
- Choose a fit that suits your physique
Nothing is more annoying than being in clothes that are too loose or restrictive. Therefore, take the time to choose the right fit. It is not only more comfortable, but it will also enhance your appearance. For example, there are special sleeve 7 shirts for tall men. - Make sure your clothes are wrinkle free
You can iron or dry clean it, but with ironless shirts you save time and money. These shirts are treated so that your own body heat gradually eliminates wrinkles. Ideal when you’re regularly on the road or traveling abroad! - Don’t overdo it with accessories
Accessories complete your office outfit, so it’s important to be balanced. A watch in combination with cufflinks looks stylish, but make sure you don’t add too much detail, because that will only distract. - Pay attention to your color palette
No matter what dress code applies; an office outfit stands or falls with color combinations. So, think carefully about colors that complement each other. For example, make sure the color of your belt matches that of your shoes. - Be prepared for the summer
In the summer it is nice to wear airy clothes, for example a linen suit or a shirt with short sleeves. Many employers do not allow you to come to work in shorts. If they do, keep the length to just above the knee.
