How to dress to look smart at work
Making good impressions is important, even more so when it comes to your career. But how do we dress to impress without going overboard?
The key is to look smart, even if you’re not. It is a way to gain the trust of your higher-ups, while building friendly ties with your colleagues. Here are some ways to make yourself appear smarter at work.
1. Dress in neutral colours
Colours convey feelings and moods. Sticking to neutral colours like black, grey, and beige will make you look more formal and serious. Presenting yourself like a professional ready to get some work done is what you need.
Michael Kors Collection Slim-fit metallic wool-blend pants
James Perse Slim-fit herringbone stretch-cotton pants
Joseph Jack slim-fit cotton and linen-blend canvas suit pants
2. Choose fabrics that are smooth, plain, and don’t crease easily
Creases on your clothes will make you look unkempt. If you find it a hassle to iron your clothes, choose fabrics like polyester, wool, cashmere, and rayon, which don’t need to be ironed.
3. Top it up with a sleek pair of glasses
Putting on spectacles will automatically make you look smarter. But to avoid looking like a nerd, get a pair of quality glasses, preferably with square rims.
4. Go for a collared shirt
As a common attire in academic institutions, collared shirts make you look formal and smart. Compared to a blouse or a T-shirt, wearing a collared shirt gives off an air of intelligence.
Officine Generale Stan cotton-poplin overshirt
Dunhill Wool, silk and cashmere-blend flannel overshirt
James Perse Embroidered cotton shirt
5. Add a second layer
Adding a second layer, like a tailored jacket, may not seem feasible in Singapore’s weather. But you can always go for a light cardigan, a sleeveless vest or a waistcoat that will help enhance your appearance.
Joseph Mélange wool-blend twill blazer
Rag & Bone Parker Striped Cotton Blazer
6. Wear a pair of quality shoes
Have you ever come across people who dressed well but neglected their footwear? To prevent such a fashion disaster, invest in a pair of quality leather shoes. Keeping your image consistent is also a way to look smart.
Common Projects Winter Chelsea boots
7. Get the right fit
Last but not least, all of the above will not be valid if the size doesn’t fit you. So, make sure your time and effort to achieve the smart look are not jeopardised by a poor fit.
