How to Dress for Business- YBR Style!

In the work I do with lifestyle/career consulting, I often get asked similar questions about the workplace and corporate America in general. Questions ranging from what constitutes business casual attire to how to dress for an informal business luncheon have been thrown my way on more than one occasion. This fact, coupled with my own observations at career fairs and networking events around the NYC area, leads me to believe that there are a lot of women out there who are unclear about the different parameters of professional dress.

Check out the Young, Black, Rich guide to business attire below!

Business
Suit- i.e. two pieced, matching top and bottom – can be skirt or pant. If wearing a skirt, the entire thigh should be covered when seated and shirt should be knee length or below when standing. Colors should be solid and basic- in other words, a fire engine red suit is not appropriate. Make up and jewelry should be conservative for a polished look, but definitely not over the top. Shoes should be closed toe and comfortable. They should neither be too dressy nor too casual. Sneakers, UGGs, flip flops, construction boots, etc are never appropriate. Any tailored blouse or sweater can be worn underneath the suit jacket. Pantyhose are required (sheer not opaque).

Business Casual
Either pants or skirts are appropriate. Neither should be too tight nor baggy. Also keep in mind that skirt length should be at the knee when standing. Safe colors to work with are navy, black, gray, brown, and khaki. Make up and jewelry should be conservative for a polished look, but definitely not over the top. Shoes should be comfortable and neither too dressy or too casual (most companies prefer closed toe). Sneakers, UGGs, flip flops, construction boots, etc are never appropriate. Any tailored blouse, shirt, sweater set, or cardigan works well also. Pantyhose are suggested, but not required.


Casual
A clean, well fitting pair of jeans paired with a polo style shirt, blouse, or sweater can be appropriate. Jeans should never be too tight or too baggy. A casual shoe and/or conservative sneaker is appropriate as well. Leather trousers, ripped or torn clothing, mini skirts, midriffs, stretch pants, leggings, etc are never appropriate. Make up and jewelry should be conservative for a polished look, but definitely not over the top.

While it may seem that there are many restrictions in business attire, it is still very possible to express your unique style and creativity while presenting a polished and professional look. While you are not expected to break the bank to wear the same brands a CEO might, you should be sure to invest in a quality garment that fits well with your budget. Believe it or not, we are constantly being judged by the way we look at work. Why not use this fact to your advantage? As a simple rule of thumb- if you can wear it to the club, you shouldn’t wear it to work!

What are some of your business attire suggestions?

-Alecia D.