The COVID-19 pandemic forced many businesses to close offices in 2020/21 and work from home. However, this year, most companies are opening back up thanks to government regulations put in place to protect people from the spread of the virus. Although this is good news, many people are finding it difficult to switch from wearing pyjamas and loungewear every day to corporate clothing.
Luckily for you, here’s a guide that can help you find the right corporate clothing for your return to the office.
The Professional Image
It’s no secret that corporate clothing goes a long way in maintaining a professional image in the workplace. The right corporate dressing reflects a positive brand image and ensures customers take your business seriously. Similarly, dressing formally creates a good and healthy culture at the workplace.
Most companies source corporate clothing (uniforms) in bulk from suppliers to ensure their employees adhere to dressing codes in the workplace. Others ask their staff to buy their corporate clothes as long as they follow dressing guidelines.
Either way, choosing the ideal corporate clothing for your return back to the office is no easy fit. There’s a lot to consider and the endless list of corporate wear in the market today only makes the entire process overwhelming and stressful.
Here are a few tips for dressing correctly when going back to work.
Corporate Dressing For Men
Most men assume that a suit is the most appropriate corporate clothing for going back to the office. While this isn’t entirely false, you don’t have to wear business suits daily to work. A crisp white shirt paired with a black, well-fit trouser serves the same purpose.
Alternatively, you can go for a blue or grey shirt teamed with khaki pants. The goal is to choose neutral colours with subtle or no patterns. For instance, corporate wear with stripes and micro-checks is a great option.
Avoid baggy trousers and pants as they make you look sloppy and lazy. Similarly, steer clear of tight shirts and ensure they’re wrinkle-free, ironed and clean. Also, make sure your shirts have full sleeves and don’t roll them up for a more professional look.
As for shoes, dark leather shoes (brown or black) with black laces are the ideal choice. Loafers and oxfords are also appropriate, but you’ll first have to check with your company’s dressing culture.
Corporate Dressing For Women
Women have a wide range of corporate clothing options compared to men. From business suits to dresses, skirts and pants, there’s a lot to choose from.
First, when selecting a business suit, ensure it’s in neutral colours like black, brown and charcoal grey. Your business suit can constitute a crisp shirt paired with a matching skirt or trousers. The skirt needs to touch the knee and below, and the trousers should be well-fitted – not too tight or too baggy.
Don’t wear dresses, minis, blouses or spaghetti tops with plunging necklines and bright colours like pinks and reds. Instead, go for formal dresses, button-down shirts or collared blouses that fit your physique, body size and body type.
As for shoes, wear flats or platform heels that are no more than 2 inches high and are closed-toe. Lastly, keep jewellery and makeup as subtle as possible. This means avoid wearing chunky necklaces and earrings and stick to nude makeup that’s light and airy.