So long, Casual Fridays! Hello, power attire!
As this article from the Wall Street Journal notes, the recent economic downturn is making an impact on our work wardrobes. While before, it was acceptable – if not 100% professional – to opt for business-casual looks like khakis and even jeans in the workplace, it’s now imperative to truly dress for success.
Writer Christina Brinkley includes this telling quote from Gretchen Neels, a Boston-based communications consultant: “In our economic times, you really want to have your game on. You can’t be too formal.”
With lay-offs looming at every turn, employees now have a stronger motivation to dress in their finest power suits at work – it could just mean the difference between keeping your job or joining the unemployment line. A sharp suit and tasteful, nicely groomed appearance shows that you take your job seriously, and shows ambition and success. By contrast, wearing jeans or a dress that looks like it was designed for a party, not the office, signals that you may be lax, or a little too comfortable and complacent.
My advice? Look to your company’s higher-ups for style inspiration, and invest in pieces that exude professional confidence. The article also suggests that men wear dark, conservative suits with ties, while women sport a stylish, commanding accessory like a luxe briefcase.
Don’t forget: You should always dress for the job you want, not the one you have!