Working in a professional environment can be challenging at the best of times; there’s a lot to consider, including how you behave, how you deal with company politics and more. Another key consideration is what you wear. While office workers have the benefit of choosing what they wear based on style and temperature, for many employees, outfits are dictated by necessity, comfort and safety. This is why we have put together our top fashion tips for the workplace…
In a workplace such as a builder’s yard or warehouse environment, you need to make sure that you are safe in your workwear and that you feel comfortable. Comfort and safety must go hand in hand when you’re choosing your workwear, but you also want to look respectable and professional. Many workplaces offer uniforms, but even then, you’ll have to choose your own footwear and accessories, so there’s a lot to consider. Keep reading to find out more about how you can select the perfect workwear and look as stylish and professional as you feel.
Know Your Workplace’s Workwear Policy
First on our list of fashion tips for the workplace is to know your workplace’s workwear policy. Before you start shopping for workwear, you need to know your company’s policy. Most businesses will offer guidelines on what you can and can’t wear. If you have a uniform that you must wear as part of your role, then you only have to consider your footwear and other accessories. On the other hand, if you’re allowed to wear whatever you want to your workplace, then you need to think about the outfits you choose and how they will fit in with your work. You need to be comfortable but also compliant with any rules that your workplace has on workwear.
Choose Top-Quality Footwear
Your feet might be at the bottom of your body, but your footwear should be a top priority when you’re choosing workwear. If you spend most of your time standing or moving around, then you’ll want to make sure that your shoes are comfortable. They will also need to be sturdy and able to stay looking great no matter what happens. Also, it would help if you tried to choose footwear that doesn’t have laces, so you can’t trip on them. Dealer boots, also known as Chelsea boots, are a great option for anyone who wants sturdy footwear that won’t fall off and has no laces. Safety boots like these are reliable and strong, as well as being classic in style, so you can look great, feel comfortable on your feet and stay safe while you work.
Make Sure Your Uniform Fits Well
If your workplace has a uniform, then you need to make sure that you choose the right size. It can seem difficult to understand what size is best when selecting a uniform, so if you have access to the clothing before you choose it, then try on a few options. If your company has to order your uniform from an external supplier, then ask your coworkers what sizes they wear and try to work out if the supplier providers outfits that are large, small or true to size. If your uniform arrives and it’s the wrong size, then make sure that you return it and order the correct size. A uniform that is too large and baggy could get caught on machinery and equipment. Alternatively, a uniform that is too small and tight will be difficult to move around in and won’t keep you warm enough in a cold workplace. Therefore, the fit of your uniform is vital, so make sure it’s correct. If your body shape changes over time, then ensure that you get a new uniform that fits you properly.
Choose Bright Colours To Stand Out
If you’re buying your own work clothes, then you need to make sure that your outfits fit well, but also that they’re the right colour. In a large warehouse or work yard, you need to make sure that you’re easy to spot. When you’re not wearing reflective safety equipment, you should still be clearly visible. That means choosing tops that are bright and easy to see. Check out bold colours such as pink, purple, or royal blue. These colours are easy to spot and, if you choose a darker pattern, then they won’t show too much dirt and grime in case you get messy during your work.
Think About How Outfits Will Go With Safety Equipment
In many workplaces, you might have to wear specific safety equipment when undertaking certain tasks. These might include reflective jackets or hard hats, as well as heavy-duty gloves. If you’re choosing your own outfit, then bright colours are useful when you’re in the warehouse or main work area. However, when you’re wearing safety equipment, you might find that your clothes clash with the bold, reflective colours of your safety gear. Learn about clashing colours and try to find items that will work well with your safety kit so that you don’t look silly while you’re working and can feel comfortable and stylish.
Use Layers To Ensure You’re Always Prepared
Many warehouses and industrial workplaces change in temperature throughout the day, depending on what machines and equipment are being used. As such, you need to make sure that you’re prepared for any weather or any task. Wearing long sleeves might keep you warm if the warehouse doors are left open, but they could also get in the way if you’re lifting heavy boxes or undertaking another manual task. So, if you want to be prepared for any eventuality, you should consider wearing layers. A cardigan or jumper can easily be put on or taken off, depending on your requirements. If you have a locker or cloakroom, you could consider leaving a few layers in there so that you can always pick them up if you need them throughout the working day. Using this approach, you’ll always be prepared for anything and have the right clothes with you at all times while you’re in your workplace.
Avoid Dangling Jewellery
For both men and women, jewellery is a great way to show your creativity and unique sense of style. However, you have to be careful that your jewellery isn’t too long and that it won’t get caught on anything. Also, it would be best if you made sure that it’s completely secure so that you don’t lose it. If you’re wearing body piercing jewellery, such as earrings, then make sure that you choose solutions that are secure, such as ball closure rings and labret bars. If you’re wearing necklaces, rings and other jewellery, then make sure it fits tightly to you or can be tucked under a shirt. If your jewellery gets in the way of your work, then it could cause a safety hazard or get damaged, so make sure you find the right options to suit your style and work. Also, check that your workplace allows jewellery and what can and can’t be worn. You can then showcase your style and individual personality without breaking any rules or potentially damaging your precious jewellery.
Dress With Confidence
When you’re dressing for work, the goal is to look polished and professional. It can be hard to feel confident when you’re not feeling your best. That’s where shapewear comes in! Shapewear can help give you a boost of confidence, which will show in your demeanour at work.
You don’t have to be a supermodel or celebrity to look good in your clothes. With the right shapewear, you can accentuate what’s great about your body while concealing what isn’t so perfect. There are many different types of shapewear available, and each one has its own benefits. Some of the most popular include waist cinchers, body shapers, bras with underwire support and more. The key is finding what works best for you!
Choosing workwear is always a challenge, particularly when you’re new to a job and unsure about how to look. Use these fashion tips for the workplace to help you find the perfect workwear options, be they a complete ensemble or just the accessories to go with your uniform.
