Strapless Dresses and Sports Jerseys? Not in the Office!
Every office is different and that means every dress code has its own rules. Employees should read the fine print before their first day of work but some attire is an objective miss in professional spaces. To save you from any embarrassment, let’s dive into a few pieces you should leave at home!
1. Backless Shirts
We can all agree that some backless attire looks incredible (We’re looking at you, Hilary Swank!), but it’s hardly the right move for an office space. Even casual spaces don’t warrant a plunging back, so keep things nice and covered during that 9-5.
2. Flip-Flops
Flip-flops don’t seem like a big deal in some offices, especially in the summertime. However, those shoes might score a meeting with HR—they’re loud, they show your bare feet, and they’re inappropriate for just about any workplace.
3. Lace or Sheer Tops
Lace isn’t unwelcome in the office, but it all depends on how you style it. Tops that show off your undergarments won’t fly with management. Instead of that lace shirt, grab skirts with a stunning trim or professional blouses with lace collars.
4. Heavy Makeup
While some workplaces don’t care about makeup, it’s better to be safe than sorry. From bold lip colors to flashy eyeshadow, management might flag a full face of makeup over subtle shades. Stick with a more natural look to face-to-face time with HR!
Apostolos Vamvouras on Unsplash
5. Strapless Clothing
Strapless clothing is a big no-no in office spaces—even if you cover bare shoulders. A cute shawl or a simple cardigan won’t save the outfit and it’s better to leave those tops for the beach. Unfortunately, the same goes for strapless dresses.
6. Anything Against Guidelines
Even if you don’t think something is a big deal, dress by the book. Management will always inform employees about their dress code; it’s safer to stay within their confines rather than risk getting sent home or being written up. If you’re unsure about an outfit, ask first!
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7. Loud Jewelry
Statement pieces don’t really belong in the office. Much like makeup, modest is the way to go! Opt for subtle jewelry over jangly earrings or chunky necklaces—it’s more professional and you won’t have to worry about HR.
8. Thin Leggings
Keep those sports bras and leggings where they belong! Your boss likely won’t take kindly to thin leggings, sneakers, or hoodies. An office is a place to dress a little nicer, so don’t be afraid to ditch the fit-wear for something more professional.
Christian Wiediger on Unsplash
9. Too Much Perfume
Everyone’s nose is different, which means no strong perfume in the office. You may not mind that floral scent, but Jan from two cubicles down won’t stop sneezing, and it’s much safer for all to leave the strong spritzes at home.
10. Fishnet Stockings
We love a good fishnet as much as the next gal, but they aren’t welcome in an office. Knee-length skirts won’t help you either because enough is left on display to warrant a scolding from HR.
Just a minute, fellas. You’re not off the hook either! Let’s dive into a few things men should avoid wearing.
1. Wrinkled Clothes
Wrinkled clothes don’t belong in the office. It doesn’t take much to iron a shirt either, so make sure you bust out the ironing board and take care of business. Wrinkled items not only look unprofessional, but they also give the impression of a devil-may-care attitude.
2. Skinny Jeans
Skinny jeans are particularly popular with younger generations, but they aren’t a good fit for the office. Overly tight clothing is just as awkward as the baggy stuff, and both can score an email from HR. Tight clothes can also make it harder to work!
3. Unbuttoned Shirts
There’s business casual and then there’s too casual. Unbuttoned shirts are a little too laissez-faire for most workplaces. It’s not the end of the world to leave one or two undone, but don’t go any further than that. (Of course, you can always wear a shirt underneath to keep that fit more professional.)
4. Shoes Without Socks
While we love a good loafer, it’s important to wear socks with any footwear. Most office spaces frown on bare feet, even if they’re mostly concealed, so don’t risk it.
5. Something Others Wouldn’t Wear
If you’re worried about what to wear, ask yourself how others dress. If a coworker wouldn’t wear that goofy tee or a pair of ripped jeans, you shouldn’t either! Part of HR’s job is to ensure a consistent dress code—you likely won’t get special treatment.
6. Sports Paraphernalia
We know the big game is coming up but leave your foam finger at home! Anything that reps your team likely won’t fly in the office, especially louder items like a jacket or jersey. (Don’t worry, they’ll never know about your lucky socks.)
Vladislav Glukhotko on Unsplash
7. Shorts
Summertime warrants breathable fabric and comfortable clothes—but shorts aren’t on the list. More casual spaces might not mind a little extra leg, but professional settings might quirk a brow at cargo shorts.
8. Clothes You Swim In
It’s not the ‘90s anymore! You don’t need to swim in suits at your office job. Tailored looks are all the rage now, so make sure you grab a proper three-piece that fits you well and won’t trip you during the day.
9. Too Much Cologne
Sorry, guys, you aren’t off the hook with this either! A few spritzes aren’t the end of the world, but too much cologne is just as irritating as too much perfume. To maintain a workplace everyone can enjoy, leave the super-smelly stuff on your nightstand.
10. Hats
We know people still debate over wearing hats indoors, but your boss probably won’t appreciate a beanie during office hours! A hat that’s part of your ensemble is more than okay—just make sure you take it off at your desk.
