Whether gearing up for an entry-level position or stepping into your first managerial or C-level role, it’s important to buy clothing that makes you look and feel your best. Unfortunately, not everyone has a personal stylist to turn to when choosing professional clothes. To help you avoid some of the most common mistakes, the following are the dos and don’ts of purchasing work attire.
Do Shop for Comfort
Professional clothing doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. It’s easier to be productive, creative, and excited in a new role when your clothes fit and feel good. Consider investing in basic wardrobe pieces made from high-quality, natural fabrics or quality fabric bends. Check the waistlines, sleeves, and necklines of every item to make sure that they aren’t too loose or too snug.
Don’t Buy Clothes Without Trying Them On
While you might know your sizes, this doesn’t mean that the right size for you will remain the same across all garment types and brands. Always try clothing on before paying for it, even when it’s offered at unbelievable prices. You can always take an overly large garment in if needed, but you can’t always take an extremely small one out.
Do Accessorize, But Don’t Over-Accessorize
Set some of your shopping budget aside for accessories. The right belt, watch, scarf, tie, or other accessory will complete your look. However, you should always limit how many accessories you wear at once. With the right amount, you’ll look both professional and effortlessly styled.
Don’t Get Carried Away With the Latest Trends
It’s okay to turn heads or blend in by getting on board with on-trend styles. The key to doing so without looking clownish lies in limiting how many trendy looks you try at once. Go for an overall basic or traditional look and add a single trendy element to make it unique. Traditional work clothes are safe, but authenticity is important.
Don’t Blow Your Budget on a Few Expensive Items
There’s nothing quite like showing up to work in a beautiful bespoke suit. However, if you spend the majority of your money on a single item, you’ll be hard-pressed to find something to wear the following day.
Do Build a Basic Wardrobe
The best way to allocate your budget when shopping for professional clothes is to dedicate most of your money to wardrobe basics. With just five to 10 basic items and a few clever accessories, you can have a new ensemble for every day of the work week.
Do Have Your Clothes Professionally Tailored
Save a little cash to have your new work clothes professionally tailored. This way, your hems won’t drag or rise too high and you’ll get perfect contouring around your arms and mid-section. A professional tailor can make average, run-of-the-mill clothing look runway-ready.
Don’t Overlook the Importance of Having the Right Shoes
Be sure to budget for a few pairs of comfortable, practical, and undeniably stylish shoes. Lacking the right footwear, the outfits you select won’t have the impact you want them to.
