Dress codes vary from workplace to workplace, so make sure you look into it before showing up for work or even for the interview. What you wear to both your interview and to your first day of work are a portrayal of yourself and will make lasting impressions, hopefully, good ones.

Does Dressing for Success Really Work?

Consider the following:

  • Preparedness is Key; Try and pick out your outfit, if not at least think about what you will be wearing on the day before the interview or first day. This will help you ensure that it is clean, ready and accessible which will help you look good and be on time.
  • An iron is your best friend; an iron can make sure your shirt is crisp and that you look your very best. Wrinkles may seem trivial to some but can definitely help you be taken more seriously and can help amp up your look.
  • Being overdressed is always better than being underdressed; when in doubt, wear the outfit you feel is overdressed because it is much better to be overdressed than to show up and be underdressed. Being underdressed can have a huge impact on your overall demeanour, confidence, self-image and evidently the way others perceive you.
  • Keep your mom’s voice in the back of your head; anything your mom would tell you is too short, tight, long, or tacky, probably is best left at home for wear outside the office. Conservative approach is key.
  • Conservative does not mean being boring; don’t tone down your self-expression and overall style, Use colours, accessories, and fun patterns to keep your outfits exciting and reflective of your personality and style.
  • Gauge the audience; once you’ve made it past the interview/first day, keep an eye on what others are wearing, if it is jeans and tees everyday, you can safely assume you are okay to do the same.