Although “image” can be a superficial concept, it is still an important part of the modern professional world. Working toward long-term career goals requires continuous effort, and keeping industry dress code norms in mind is just one way to ensure you’re moving in the right direction. When selecting outfits and building your wardrobe, it’s typical to select pieces that are the most comfortable or that best represent your personality. In the midst of making these decisions, it’s easy to forget about the messages you may be sending with your appearance. Your professional pursuits should be prioritized, not sacrificed, through your choice of attire. Making mindful fashion choices will make you more successful in college, within your career and in everyday life.
College
In college, lazy apparel is a huge trend. Many students take full advantage of having no dress code. This is an easy pattern to follow, but it can be a difficult one to break. Most work environments have some sort of dress code standards, so giving up the leggings now will make it easier to adjust later.
It’s natural to have a casual day every once in awhile, especially when you have an early morning exam after a late night of studying. However, when poor dress becomes a regular trend, there can be lasting damage to your reputation. If your professor only recognizes you as the disheveled one who wears the stained shirt to every class, that’s the first sign of a problem. Your appearance plays a role in the impressions others have of you, so it’s best to be intentional with your outfit decisions.
Although classes are the primary focus, college also offers plenty of networking opportunities for students. Colleges host lectures, job and internship fairs and panel discussions on a regular basis. These events are great for meeting professionals and gaining advice from alumni. Sometimes you may find yourself at one of these events unexpectedly in the middle of the week, so it’s best to always be prepared with presentable attire. There have been plenty of occasions where my business casual wardrobe choices have saved me from embarrassment when I decided to attend an event at the last minute.
Career
Throughout your career search and in the workplace, wardrobe choices become even more important. Choosing the appropriate outfit is a very important step in preparing for an interview. Formality varies by industry, so it is important to understand expectations before attending an interview. For example, for more conservative work environments, like those in law and government, neutral color schemes are typical.
Even after the interview, wardrobe selections can continue to have positive or negative effects. Your daily work appearance communicates personality traits to your coworkers and superiors. These impressions will likely be brought up in discussions about possible promotions.
Sometimes accepting entry level jobs outside of the intended industry is inevitable, but it is important to continue to work toward long-term career goals, which includes dressing the part. Although your part-time job may have a specific uniform, that doesn’t mean you can’t dress for your dream job outside of work.
Everywhere
When not in the confines of school or work, it may seem like fashion choices are no longer important. It is true that your regular, everyday attire may not be as impactful, but wardrobe choices can be just as important even in relaxed atmospheres. Although not quite as common, networking opportunities happen in everyday life. Even grocery store or coffee shop run-ins with old acquaintances can lead to job offers down the road.
Of course dressing in formal apparel all the time is not practical, but dressing presentably is still important. Dressing in a relaxed fashion can make you look and feel unmotivated. Dressing with career goals in mind will keep you encouraged throughout your professional pursuits.
Physical presentation plays a huge role throughout your professional pursuits. Whether you’re still a student or in the process of looking for a new job, it is important to make choices that will help you work toward your goals. Beginning the process of making smart wardrobe decisions in college will help keep you motivated and will better prepare you for a life full of professional rewards.