The Life-Changing Power of Dressing Well at Work

You can't go wrong with classic colors. Getty Images

“Dressing well is a form of good manners,” Tom Ford, the former creative director for Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent, famously said. While some would argue that we shouldn’t judge someone by the clothes they wear but by their character, clothing can often serve as a manifestation of that character.

“It conveys respect for yourself, your colleagues, and your workplace, as it shows you put effort into your personal presentation,” etiquette expert Myka Meier from Beaumont Etiquette told The Epoch Times. “It also reflects your commitment to your role. Additionally, dressing appropriately helps create a positive impression and can enhance your confidence and credibility in the workplace.”

Impressions matter, and whether we like it or not, our intelligence, competency, and skills are significantly judged based on our looks. How we dress is one of the key elements in shaping those judgments. Therefore, dressing well not only reflects good manners but also serves as a means to project the best version of ourselves.

In the workplace, especially, there are ample studies that demonstrate that others perceive managers and employees who are well-dressed as being more intelligent and hardworking than those dressed more casually.

And it goes the other way around as well: The type of clothes you wear can influence how you feel about yourself. There’s even a scientific term for it—“enclothed cognition”—coined by a 2012 study. In this study, participants wearing a lab coat showed an increase in selective attention compared to those wearing ordinary clothes, after stating that they associated wearing a white lab coat with someone with high attention to detail.

That means that if you dress like a professional, you’ll feel like a professional, and others will perceive you as such as well.

That principle applies to any profession. Jerry Rice, the great football player, said in an interview with NBC Sports that he put great emphasis on looking professional in the field. The pants and jersey had to have the right fit, the socks had to be clean, and even the helmet had to be nice and shiny. “Appearance is everything,” he said. “You have to look professional, and that’s something that I did throughout my career.”

Dressing well is a sign of respect, and a means to project the best version of ourselves. Kathrin Ziegler/Getty Images

Simple, but Right Choices

Dressing well doesn’t necessarily mean having a walk-in closet full of designer clothes. The beauty of classics is that they stand the test of time, and that also applies to outfits.

Oscar de la Renta, the renowned fashion designer with a clientele of socialites and celebrities, once said: “Being well dressed hasn’t much to do with having good clothes. It’s a question of good balance and good common sense.”

That also applies to the workplace. “You don’t need a lot of outfits. A few key staples mixed and matched are all you truly need,” Meier said.

From top to bottom, the consultant specializing in business etiquette and protocol recommends the following staples for a polished work look:

• Well-tailored suits (for both genders)
• Crisp button-down shirts (a classic white button-down is a must)
• Versatile blazers
• Tailored trousers or skirts
• Classic close-toed pumps or polished shoes
• A nice leather belt that matches the color of your shoes

And don’t forget the final touches with elegant and simple accessories, such as a watch or subtle jewelry, and a good-quality leather handbag or briefcase.

If you’re not sure about the appropriate level of formality for your workplace, consider observing the clothing preferences of others in your profession or colleagues at your workplace. As a rule of thumb, it’s preferable to err on the side of being slightly overdressed rather than underdressed.

Timeless Colors

Everyone looks good on a neutral palette.

“Black, navy, gray, and beige during spring and summer months, are universally flattering and appropriate for the workplace as they exude professionalism and are easy to mix and match,” Meier said.

Regarding other colors, it’s better to choose one, maybe two, as a pop of color in a tie, pocket square, or blouse. That way, it will look more professional, as putting too many big, bold colors together can be distracting.

The same principle applies to patterns.

“Subtle patterns like pinstripes can also add interest to outfits without being overly distracting,” Meier said.

Save the bold colors and patterns for accessories, such as a tie or pocket square. slava17/Shuttesrtock

You Be You

Wearing classic outfits with neutral colors doesn’t mean you can’t be creative and add your personal touch to your look.

“Having your own, personal brand is just as important as looking professional,” Meier said. “Adopting something ‘signature’ about your look—which you incorporate regularly—makes you recognizable and gives you the ability to incorporate personal style.”

Striking the right balance between professionalism and personal style involves understanding the dress code of your workplace and adhering to it while incorporating elements of your personal style in subtle ways.

Some examples are a pair of thick-rimmed glasses, a bright lip, a signature tie clip and pocket square, or a certain hairstyle.

“This could mean choosing tailored garments that fit well and flatter your body type, and ensuring that your clothing choices reflect your personality without overshadowing the professional environment,” Meier said.

Some Don’ts

There are many fashion “don’ts” that professionals should avoid when dressing for work. These include wearing overly casual attire such as jeans, T-shirts with slogans, or overly revealing clothing. Additionally, it’s important to avoid clothing that is wrinkled, stained (especially yellowing underarms), or ill-fitting, as it can detract from your professional appearance. Avoid clothing with holes in it, even if the holes are intentional and “trendy.”

At the end of the day, you want to be sure your wardrobe remains professional and not distracting or offensive in any way.

Perfume deserves a special mention.

“I always advise against wearing fragrance in business, and if someone doesn’t like the smell, it could be a deal breaker to want to work with you,” Meier said.

Being well-groomed is also a sign of professionalism. Avoid arriving at your workplace with wet hair, as it will give the impression of being late (even if you aren’t), careless, or not serious about your work. Nails should be trimmed and clean. For men who sport facial hair, make sure you keep it trimmed and tidy.

It’s important to point out that even in more casual work environments, individuals in leadership roles tend to dress slightly more formally. Dressing similarly to those people will send the message that you are ready for the role.

On “casual Fridays,” it’s still important to maintain an image of professionalism and confidence. Even in more relaxed settings, your appearance should remain clean, tidy, well-fitted, and modest.

“Ultimately, the key is to maintain a polished and professional appearance that reflects positively on both yourself and your workplace,” Meier said.

While certain aspects of your professional life may be beyond your control, how you present yourself remains under your control. Use it to your advantage. Portraying yourself in a positive light is essential for achieving success in the workplace—and in life.