Professional Dress Code for Spring & Summer

May 12, 2015 Collaj
Filed under The Workplace

Winter is long gone, but maybe your wardrobe still consists of drab and somber colors because you just don’t know how to do professional any other way. Whether your job requires the prim and proper look or not, it’s always a smart choice to stay on top of your style game and look like you mean business. And when you dress the part, you tend to act the part–and that will go a long way.

Color up. According to Pantone, the fashion color authority, this season’s hues are bright, yet muted and creamy: Aquamarine, Scuba Blue, Lucite Green, Classic Blue, Toasted Almond, Strawberry Ice, Tangerine, Custard, Marsala and Glacier Gray (anyone hungry yet?). Incorporate a splash of those colors through a blazer, blouse, button up, tie, bag or other accessories. Professional clearly doesn’t mean just black, brown and neutrals.

For Her: Add pops of color to your blazer, skirt, bag or shoes, but choose a color scheme and stick with it (no more than three colors). E.g., Blue + white + orange and a metal tone for jewelry.

For Him: Wearing an orange suit can make you stick out like a sore thumb, but you don’t need to stick to the navy, black or brown either. This season, stick with the khaki tone and light grey suits, which are perfect for any professional or elegant occasion.

Get tailored. You might have fallen into the trap or cycle of wearing clothes that are too tight or too loose, but didn’t notice it because it’s not what you’re used to. The key is to make it fit perfectly to your body. Clothing shouldn’t be so tight that it looks like a button will burst, and it shouldn’t be loose or big, which can exhibit a frumpish and outdated style.

Neat and trim. Part of a professional dress code is being well-groomed and clean–not looking like you just got out of bed and rushed to work. The focus should be on the hair, face and nails. Avoiding shabby tees, stained or faded clothing is already a given unless you’re painting or in that kind of a setting.

Be well-mannered. This means being considerate, mature about situations and having a good work ethic no matter what industry you’re in. In the end, you’ll see that it’s a win-win for all.