To you women out there wanting to look professional and polished, here are some tips on how to look your best and to portray the image of yourself you want others to see.

1) If you’re asking yourself if it’s too short or too low, it probably is.

Wearing too low cut of a shirt will take attention away from the insightful words you’re saying and shift your co-worker’s focus elsewhere (you do the math). Avoid this issue by staying modest. Leave cleavage for the bar, but not an interview.

2) Sorry to break it to you, but what you pay for is what you get (usually).

As you’re getting to the stage where you are interviewing for positions and/or taking on a job where business casual, business appropriate or even business professional may be the standard, keep in mind that what you pay for is what you get.

Dressing for the workplace unfortunately doesn’t come cheap, but I promise you that it will be well worth the investment to establish your business wardrobe.

3) Don’t underestimate a well-tailored blazer or jacket.

Wearing a well-fitted blazer made of quality material pulls your look together and makes you look like you mean business.

4) Your tailor is your friend.

Get those pants shortened or that jacket taken in a bit. If your clothes fit you well, you will look that much better.

Little known fact - suits off the rack rarely fit any person perfectly. This is why tailoring for suiting is so important.

5) Keep it simple.

No one wants to see your shoulder-grazing hoops in the office. This is a good tip if you want to be taken seriously, as well. Stick to posts and small hoops or forget the earrings and wear an interesting necklace. It is easier to get away with a more ornate necklace at work because unlike earrings, this piece is not right next to your face. Simplicity with your fingernails as well - no chipped polish at the office. It just looks bad. Go for a light pink or a classic manicure to complete your look.

6) On casual Friday, don’t look like you’re going to mow the lawn after work.
You can look casual and put together with minimal effort with dark wash jeans (they are more slimming than lighter ones), nice flats or low heels, and a button down and/or light sweater. Again, casual Friday is a great time to incorporate your jacket into your outfit, because its polish will keep you looking professional.

This doesn’t work.

For fashion articles from College Candy, click here.

For more College Life articles, click here.

View Chelsea's Profile      Subscribe via RSS