How to Dress for a Promotion
Dressing well at the workplace does not automatically mean you’ll be promoted. Plenty of other factors determine whether you have what it takes to be considered for a new position. However, dressing poorly can act against you. If you are not following the dress code or not looking polished, you might as well kiss that promotion you’re aiming for goodbye.
Workers and managers alike believe that how you dress says a lot about you. Going the extra mile—such as investing in quality, workplace-appropriate pieces, streaming or dry cleaning your apparel, keeping your fingernails manicured, polishing your shoes, and wearing appropriate accessories—can make you stand out from others at work. If you already have stellar work performance, good references, a cheerful personality, and an impeccable attendance record, dressing for the job you want will keep you on the right path for a promotion. Here are some tips for dressing smart for a promotion.
Do: Dress for the Job You Want
Dress for the job you’re aiming to get. You want to impress certain people while still fitting within the dress code. Therefore, you must invest in quality, comfortable, and versatile pieces you can wear multiple times throughout the week and year that fit into your company’s dress code. Stick to neutral tones if in doubt, and try not to wear anything too flashy. Also, make sure your apparel fits you properly; if not, get your clothes tailored.
Tops
For casual workplaces, instead of tossing on a T-shirt, perhaps wear company polo shirts or tucked-in collared uniform shirts instead. For other workplaces, keep a blazer handy, especially for meetings. For women, look for modest and chic, office-appropriate shift or sheath dresses. If suits are appropriate, like for more formal environments, invest in a quality suit you can keep for years to wear with your attire, such as embroidered business professional clothing.
Bottoms
Stay away from jeans if you’re unsure if they’re appropriate in a casual office. Slacks and skirts of the proper length are great choices. For business casual environments, wear navy slacks and khaki custom business casual pants, and for business professional workplaces, don pressed pants. Invest in a tailored suit (women must wear tights if wearing a skirt suit) for formal workplaces.
Footwear
You may already have polished footwear, but if not, let your drive for a promotion be a reason to go shoe shopping. Stick to closed-toe comfortable shoes, like leather loafers, derby shoes, Oxford shoes, designer pumps, and flats. Keep your shoes cleaned year-round.
Do: Invest in a Stylish Work Bag & Accessories
Keep things classy by accessorizing tastefully. Choose a few pieces that match perfectly with what you’re wearing to the office, such as a statement watch, elegant studs or hoops, a leather belt, or a silk scarf. Invest in a stylish company backpack (for casual workplaces), a leather tote, or a briefcase.
Do: Remain Polished Without Overdoing It
Go beyond dressing for the part by keeping tidy in other ways. Remain well groomed. Rock a tasteful hairstyle, haircut, and makeup. Wear trendy eyeglasses suited for your face. Keep your fingernails trimmed and well-manicured. Try a cologne or perfume that keeps you smelling good without overwhelming others.
Don’t: Wear Too Casual Attire
Even if you’re an employee at a casual workplace, try not to dress too casually. When in doubt, stick to obviously appropriate attire. Stray away from leggings, flip-flops, baseball caps, tracksuits, fishnet stockings, sneakers, cargo pants, tank tops, shorts, capri pants, athleisure apparel, sportswear, and colored, embellished, or destructed jeans.
Don’t: Wear Provocative Clothing
Never wear provocative clothing to work, especially if you’re eyeing a promotion. Stay away from tight-fitting dresses, sweaters, pants, and bodysuits. Never wear miniskirts. Save your revealing, low-cut, and sheer tops for the weekend. And don’t wear graphic T-shirts with a political or controversial print.
Don’t: Look Sloppy from Head to Toe
Make sure you remain polished throughout the day. Accidents happen, so make sure you’re keeping out for untucked tops, sweat stains, unfinished makeup, and anything else that looks unsightly. Ask around and pay attention to what your managers and colleagues are wearing. Some companies still aren’t OK with multiple tattoos and additional piercings besides traditional ear piercings. You may have to experiment with your wardrobe to hide your beloved tattoos (such as wearing turtlenecks and long sleeves) and remove your piercings.
Start making an impression today to get that promotion you’ve been working toward. Dress to stand out. Wear solid or embroidered work attire for women and men that fit into your company’s dress code. Get your clothes tailored, and keep them ironed, steamed, pressed, and wrinkle-free. Polish your shoes and maintain them throughout the year. Wear appropriate socks and hosiery. Tie together your 9-to-5 lineup with tasteful accessories and a quality work bag.
Finally, to look and feel the part, display confidence in your abilities. When in doubt, look to colleagues and managers for inspiration. Research and follow online influencers who are doing what you hope to do one day. And purchase quality apparel, as you’ll find on Lands’ End, that’ll help you get that promotion you deserve!