Dressing for the workplace can be quite a challenge: how do you present yourself appropriately without sacrificing your personal style completely; and how does one gauge the expectations of those one works with? Rachel van Doorene offers some tips.

What are the lessons we can learn about dressing to enhance all aspects of femininity in the workplace?

First and foremost, what you wear starts in your head. Before you actually put on any clothing, there is a message that you subconsciously want to represent.

Let me get honest with you.

I have one of those bodies that could be referred to as the “mother of earth” type. I am tall, good shoulders, large breasts, smaller waist, wide hips – all in all quite voluptuous. Probably my greatest assets are my breasts and my eyes (at least I think so). When preparing for a date, I may well want to wear a top that is a little revealing and would show off my assets to their greatest advantage. However, when I am meeting directors (be they male or female) of a company, I don’t want them looking at my chest! Though I love the bohemian look, I don’t wear it to the meeting. Rather, I pull out my business suit – professional, discreet, classy - and I power it to the meeting.

I was not always like this. When I first started working, I remember the kind of outfits I would wear to the office. My organisation did not have a strict dress code, though I remember many eyebrows raised at some of my choices. I had a particularly short, black pinafore dress that I would wear with a tartan bodysuit and matching tartan stockings, finished off with a pair of ankle boots. I know you’re thinking – “what was she thinking?”

I thought I looked fabulous, though in retrospect the message was clear. I wanted people to think I was funky, edgy, quirky and sexy. I worked in a very young team of men and women and too many times my clothing decisions were made on who would be there and how they would respond to me rather than what would add value to my team.

Dress Codes
So at risk of sounding a little preachy, I ask you to evaluate your dress code in the workplace:
• Does your workplace have a documented dress code?
• Have you read it?
• Do you agree with the majority of the items in it?
• If not, have you raised any items with your managers for evaluation?
• If yes, have you complied with the dress code?

The dress code is formulated by the organisation to ensure that their brand is consistently represented. For example, an organisation operating in the financial services or legal arena has a certain message to be relayed. They look for people to support that message of professionalism, order, trust, subtlety, formality etc. In the IT and advertising worlds there is more scope for playfulness, innovation, creativity and so on. I find it useful to think about the organisation I am seeing and matching my dress code to theirs.

What about individuality and femininity? Does this mean that I have to wear black suits all day? Absolutely not, there is no reason that you cannot apply your own unique blend of style to the mix.

Accessorise
In my spending, I spend quite a bit on buying accessories to complement my outfits. Scarves, hats and necklaces are my favourites, and through these items I am able to create a look and feel that is unique to my temperament.

Body Shape
Knowing my body shape and the style that suits me has been essential in my workplace dressing. I still apply a formal look when I need to or a more playful one when appropriate. I like long skirts, flowing jackets and layers. So I will use these to create a personalised formal and business-like look.

The No-No’s
The workplace has become more casual over the years, but there are still a number of no-no’s which we should take into consideration:

• Do not wear ripped or torn clothing
• Avoid anything too sloppy – tracksuits, jeans and t-shirts
• Do not wear anything too sexy or exposing
• Make sure your underwear is not showing – especially high cut G-strings

Be prepared
I find it useful to always have a spare pair of shoes around – especially if I am not expecting any client meetings that day and then have to jump into one unexpectedly – a quick change into my black boots or heels helps. I also make sure that I always have a jacket with me in case I need to smarten up prior to a meeting. When wearing stockings, I am notorious for ladders, and so I always carry an extra pair in my car.

Finally, remember this quote from an influential business leader: “Remember that your appearance is your calling card; it speaks before you even open your mouth.”

This article was brought to you by SMAT. The SMAT range of corporate clothing has been specifically created to offer every woman a full wardrobe of elegant, stylish and comfortable outfits. By carefully selecting each item, you can ensure that you look your best today, and every day. For more information call 0861 SMAT 48 (0861-762848) or visit www.smat.co.za

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