Since the dawn of the high-tech revolution, business casual dress has become a common sight in corporate America. Bill Gates showed the world that billions of dollars could be made while wearing a polo shirt and khaki pants. But the dot-coms and computer giants that once dominated media attention are now sinking faster than the Titanic. As they slip away, will their "sloppy-chic" style also fade into the deep?
The economic downturn has produced a more competitive job market. Unleashed into the ranks of the unemployed are thousands of talented techies, workers notorious for their less-than-professional dress. Dressing well just may give you a real advantage over these job competitors.
Step 1: Corporate Culture Research Research arms you with information about a company or corporation for which you'd like to work. If you're already employed and feel stuck or out of step, research can come in handy here as well. Here are a few simple questions that can help you define your work style goals:
Step 2: Five Easy Pieces Men have fewer clothing options than women. Therefore, they also have less room for monumental mistakes. Let's start with the basics:
To this mix, add two pairs of dressy casual shoes with a matching belt--one set black and the other brown. If you don't already own a dress watch, buy one--wearing a stylish watch communicates that time is valuable to you.
Women have to be careful in their choices, too. They should start here:
Jewelry poses another potential pitfall for women. When choosing accessories for work, remember that less is more. Earrings should consist of one small pair. Necklaces should be small and delicate in design. And, like men, you should send a nonverbal message that time is important by wearing a dress watch.
Step 3: Picture This Now it's time to start visually building your wardrobe. Visit a few Web sites that illustrate clear examples of business casual looks: BrooksBrothers.com, LandsEnd.com, and KennethCole.com are strong casual dress sites. Print out clothing examples from the sites that best fit your style (and reflect your company culture); bring them along on your shopping quest.
Step 4: The Shopping Adventure Armed with your with photos and "five easy pieces" list, you're ready to get out there and shop. Be true to the items on the list and you won't be tempted to purchase things you don't need. For variety, note one or two new stores that you've been interested in and add them to your shopping excursion. By breaking out of your usual shopping pattern and visiting a new store or boutique, your quest will feel new and more enjoyable.
But remember: If you'd wear it on the weekend or to a club on Saturday night, don't wear it to the office. When shopping for work, always err on the conservative.
The Final Touch Whether you're job hunting, fishing for a promotion, or just want to protect your current job during the economic downturn, you should understand the importance of sending a clear visual message that you respect yourself, your job, and the company you work for.
Barbara J. Seymour is an expert style strategist, beauty expert, and freelance writer, based in Los Angeles. Formerly an assignment editor for CNN and E! Entertainment Television, her fashion savvy has been featured everywhere from MSN.com to ABC-TV.
