Working women are expected to look polished and well-kept. This is especially true if you have a job that requires you to keep your image up. What you choose to wear on a daily basis can let employers know that you are serious about your job.
On the other hand, it can also let them know that you are a little unorganized if you don’t make the right decisions.
According to the Bayt.com ‘Influence of Personal Appearance on Hiring Decisions’ poll, March 2013, 63.5% of professionals in the Middle East and North Africa region are affirmative that they feel judged on the basis of their personal grooming and clothes. Whether your workplace is strict or relaxed, there is a certain level of refinement that should always be maintained, and things you should simply never do.
The following are 8 tips from the expert at Bayt.com that can help working women look fashionable and presentable:
1. Wear something you’re confident in As 83.4% of MENA professionals claim that there is a link between appearance and success, you won’t enjoy the appearance you’re striving for if you do not feel comfortable in your own skin. This is why the kind of fabric you wear is very important to your overall confidence. Polyester and rayon trap heat in your body more than nearly any other material, so knowing which fabrics will keep you cool can make all the difference. Cotton is a great option due to its natural drying properties, strength, and durability. Another light fabric is seersucker, which has cotton in it, and forms a very breathable fabric. Linen suits are also known for being light and airy. Getting dressed for the office doesn’t mean leaving your personal style behind. Find out which looks give you a polished, professional look and which fashions can be a career killer.
2. Find the right shoes If you’re on your feet all day, wear comfortable shoes. Ballet flats, low-rise wedges, boots, penny loafers, and oxfords are all excellent options. Just be sure to mix it up and avoid getting stuck in a shoe rut. Wearing the same shoes everyday will actually make those tootsies hurt even more. Last important thing: no flip-flops or sneakers at work! Save your flip-flops for the beach, and your sneakers for the gym.
3. Ahhh makeup… Perfection here is not the goal. Think clean and fresh—sheer foundation (if any), mascara, and neutral lipstick. If you wear blush then blend well so you don’t look like you just came down from a mountain.
4. Avoid looking too casual If you show up in your pajamas and a pair of slipper you will likely get fired. Don’t go too casual to work. Make sure the styles that you choose are appropriate for your workplace. It’s okay to wear jeans and flats if your workplace calls for this attire. In all cases, use your best judgment.
5. Reveal nothing Don’t dress in a provocative way. No low necklines, high hemlines, too-tight anything or stomach exposure. The last thing you want is to look like you don’t belong.
6. Handbags do matter Your handbag can say a lot about you. Oversized handbags may give you the appearance of being clumsy and unorganized. Choose a small or medium size bag that helps you get the professional image that you are looking for.
7. Jewelry do’s and don’ts Jewelry that jangles (chandelier earrings, stacks of bangles) is distracting. Opt for stud earrings or single bracelets.
8. It’s all about the nails Finally, we’re all about nicely done nails. Keep them neat with a conservative color. French manicure is also a great option for a working woman. Personal appearance is very important.
According to the Bayt.com ‘Influence of Personal Appearance on Hiring Decisions’ poll, 78.6% of respondents believe well-groomed professionals enjoy better professional growth. Your outward presentation gives off signals. Everything counts. Follow these 8 simple steps to reflect a polished, professional attire at work.
