As I prepare for my summer internship in a corporate setting, I am interested in tips on how to dress appropriately for work while still showcasing my personality. I want to avoid any major fashion mistakes but also avoid blending in completely. Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you! — Erica, Berkeley, Calif.
In the TV show “The Office,” Toby Flenderson, a character from the HR department, once said, “When you come into work, you give up certain rights.” Although it was said in a comedic context, this statement holds some truth. When you join an office, you inevitably adopt its dress code to some extent. The balance between conforming to the group and expressing your individuality has been a topic of discussion for ages. Thankfully, we are currently in a period where individual expression takes precedence over strict adherence to corporate norms.
However, the practical implications of this can be a bit challenging. Employers are hesitant to impose specific dress codes due to legal considerations, and employees are still accustomed to the comfort of working from home in casual attire.
According to Darren Walker, the president of the Ford Foundation, successful office attire involves incorporating colors and patterns that align with your personality, as long as they are expressed within the office’s dress silhouette. In essence, it’s about having fun within certain bounds.
Risa Heller, a renowned crisis communications expert, advises against feeling the need to disguise yourself as a corporate cog. She believes that feeling like yourself is essential for performing your job effectively. However, she also cautions against openly defying your employer’s conventions as it may send the wrong message about your commitment to your job.
The best approach is to start by observing your colleagues and their attire. This will give you an idea of the office culture and how you can incorporate your personal style within those boundaries. You can begin by experimenting with your choice of shoes, such as pairing ballet flats with cigarette pants or a skirt, rather than going all out with flamboyant outfits.
If you have a penchant for nautical stripes, consider wearing them under a jacket instead of going full-on gondolier. Similarly, if you love denim, opt for a dark denim suit jacket or tailored dark denim, rather than faded jeans.
By subtly incorporating your personal style into your work attire, you can avoid distracting your colleagues or potential clients while still conveying your creativity and ability to be a team player. Ultimately, this enhances your chances of being hired.
Your Style Questions, Answered
Every week on Open Thread, Vanessa will answer a reader’s fashion-related question, which you can send to her anytime via email or Twitter. Questions are edited and condensed.
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