Dressing for Success: Looking Stylish and Professional

An old adage says you shouldn't dress for the job you have, but for the job you want. While not everyone can wear their Superman costume underneath their reporter's clothes, it's still possible to dress suitably for the professional environment. In today's day and age, appearance matters. While it is still important to dress appropriately for your career, presenting yourself in a manner that radiates confidence and professionalism will go a long way in helping you establish a reputation for success. Here are some tips for dressing professionally in an every day office setting. Women: * Wear classic suits that are tailored and fit nicely. Solid, neutral colors like navy blue, black or brown are wardrobe staples, and can be dressed up with bright pops of color and prints elsewhere, like a printed blouse underneath a jacket, or one piece of statement jewelry. It's important to remember that your clothing should also make you feel comfortable and confident. * Wear blouses that are not too sheer, too tight, too low-cut, strapless or "provocative." * Wear shoes that coordinate with your outfit, and are clean and tidy. Professional loafers, heels you can comfortably walk in, or flats are good types of shoes to wear. Steer clear of sneakers or flip-flops in the workplace. * If you wear makeup, wear natural, light make-up and shorter, neutral-colored nails. * Wear a light perfume, but make sure not to over-use your preferred scent. * Try and conceal tattoos and body piercings. Men: * Wear classic suits that are tailored and fit nicely. Solid, neutral colors like navy blue, black or gray can be worn any number of ways. Classic/traditional two- or three-buttoned suits are good staples to wear. Remember that it is important that your clothes make you feel comfortable and confident. * Wear your hair in a clean, neat style; shorter hair is preferable. * Wear leather business shoes and a matching belt, which coordinate with your suit. Shoes should be clean and polished and accompanied by dark, inconspicuous business socks that match your outfit. Steer clear of flip flops and sneakers. * Solid, light-colored, button-down shirts that are pressed look very professional and put together under your suit jacket. * Depending on the dresscode at your place of work, you may also consider wearing a medium-width, traditional-patterned, silk tie; tie it so that it falls just above your belt. Whether you're heading for an interview or it's another day at the office, how you look is important. As an employee, you represent your company, and your clothes represent you. Make sure the first, and last, impressions you give off are positive impressions of success.