The Secret to Dressing for Success

It is your first day. You had to survive many rounds of arduous interviews to land this job. There is no doubt in your mind that you have what it takes to succeed. But do you look the part?

Along with a strong coffee, looking and feeling good is the best confidence booster for any businesswomen, be it for the matured senior executive amongst the men in the corporate boardroom or on a new joiner's first day of work as a junior executive. Like it or not, people create perceptions about you based on first impression, and your attire is the first thing that catches their attention. 

Choosing the right attire may seem as daunting as the new job itself, but fret not! You will be able to breeze through your first day and week at work with these few secret tips.

Tip 1: Do not be afraid to overdress for the first day of work. This is especially so when you are unsure if the company policy dictates for business professional or business casual outfit. Overdressing will only show how much you value the job. Business professional will mean a matching suit jacket and a blouse with well-fitted trousers or skirt or a dress with matching jacket. You may ditch the tailored jacket or wear a pair of unmatched trousers for a less formal business casual look.

Business professional looks that you may aim for.

Photo: Google Images

Tip 2: Understand the shape of your body. Do not agonize if you have the curves and are unable to pull off wide leg pants or tight-fitting pencil skirts. You have plenty other options to look elegant and confident. A pair of slim cut structured trousers or a formal dress with empire waist or A-line cut will flatter your body shape.

Examples of formal dresses with empire waistline to accentuate your slimmer waist and minimise the thighs and wide hips. Throw on a blazer for a business professional look.

Photo: welovefashion

Tip 3: Do not overlook comfort for style. This may sound like a silly reminder, but many women (myself included) are guilty of it. If you are not comfortable or confident about your attire, it can show through your demeanor. Avoid high stiletto heels, low-cut tops and too tight skirts as these may move the focus away from your professional business skills. Also, avoid showing too much skin as the more skin you show, the more power you give away.

Big No-Nos at your workplace.

Photo: Google Images

Tip 4: Be presentable. Long unkempt hair, too little makeup, overdone makeup, chipped nails – all of these will bring your credibility down one notch. Make sure you keep your makeup work-appropriate and fresh, your hair pinned up or blow-dry neatly and lastly, avoid having chipped nails with our new product in the market – INNI nail wraps. Refer to our latest post on How to look professional and confident for a more detailed description on how to do your hair, makeup and nails!

Of course, at the end of the day it is about the way you carry yourself and the confidence you exude. Remember to greet your colleagues with a glowing smile and firm handshake!

Photo: Google Images