The phrase “first impressions last” may be a cliché, but it is very apt in many fields of work.
I’m not much of a devoted follower of fashion. In fact, I haven’t really learnt how to “dress” for work because I’ve been wearing a uniform most of my life – 12 years at school, a bit of a break for tertiary education, and then a uniform again to work at my previous job.
So I never had to think twice about what to wear from Monday to Friday. It wasn’t until I joined Flow that I discovered the different ways of dressing for work: business formal/professional (what I had been used to); smart casual; and casual.
So I did some research on these different styles of office-wear:
Business formal/professional
This is conservative clothing that portrays you as a professional. It’s elegant and classy and usually worn by professionals in organisations that have a strict dress-code policy (such as finance, law). Women wear pants or skirt-suits with heels, while men wear blazers or suit jacket, a tie and formal shoes.
Smart casual
There is no need to wear a suit – but no jeans or T-shirts allowed. Women typically wear a shirt or sweater with dress pants and dress shoes, or decent flat pumps. Conservative dresses and skirts are also acceptable. Male options for smart casual include a collared shirt or sweater, khaki or dress pants, along with dress shoes; there is no need for a tie.
Casual
This is more relaxed and creative office-wear that can reflect the ethos of the company. Appropriate clothing includes decent jeans, blouses, shirts or T-shirts, with flat shoes – always neat and presentable. Casual does not mean sloppy, tight or overly revealing attires.
Tight leggings with short tops, shorts, skimpy skirts and dresses that show the foundation of your bottom are an absolute no-no at work!
Flow promotes freedom of expression, including the way one dresses, and this should be respected. When a Flowstar first meets a client, they know they will be creating a lasting impression of the company – and we want clients to know that we are creative, innovative and conduct our relationships with integrity.
Be trendy, smart, casual and creative in a decent and presentable way, always thinking of your image and your company’s reputation. Build your own image, if you wish, and represent your company’s’ brand.