Dress code for women

The concept of “dress code” came to us relatively recently, but has already gained great popularity. Most often this phrase means business style clothing, which must be observed by employees of any reputable organization. If you already work in an office or are just planning to make a career in a large corporation, then our article is for you. She will talk about the main subtleties of the dress code for women, which will help you become a stylish “office lady” and look the part at formal events.

Dress code clothing

First of all, a positive image of a company is formed by the appearance of its employees. However, often female representatives working in a business environment consider this style of clothing boring. It seems to them that they are merging with the gray mass and losing their individuality. But this opinion is wrong. Indeed, today many designers are trying to diversify the office wardrobe of girls and women by coming up with fashionable and stylish collections for them. Also, some companies allow some relaxations in appearance on Fridays - “Casual Friday” (free, informal Friday).

So, let's look at options for “classic” business outfits.

Suit

There may be several of them, with skirt or with trousers, depending on your employer's requirements. Choose discreet colors and good quality fabrics. It's also worth considering a three-piece suit with a vest, which can sometimes be worn as a separate piece over a shirt or turtleneck.

Jacket

It is best that it be universal and match any item in your “work” wardrobe. Thanks to this, you will have the opportunity to get the maximum number of different kits. Very feminine and at the same time, a fitted jacket with long sleeves looks businesslike.

Skirt

The basic rule for this thing is to maintain the required length - to the middle of the knee. An option 5 cm higher or lower is allowed. There may be a cut on it, but no more than 10 cm. As a rule, on such skirts a minimum of fittings or none at all. Most often they are plain, or the fabric has a small checkered or striped pattern. It should be tailored to your figure, but not too tight. The traditional office model is the pencil skirt.

Pants

The first thing a business lady should add to her wardrobe is traditional straight-cut trousers with creases. And only then, if the dress code rules allow, you can dress up in more stylish models, for example, tapered or cropped trousers, which are the trend of this season. For winter, trousers made of thick fabrics are suitable, and for the summer season, trousers made of cotton or even linen.

Dress

Solid colors are welcome here, without unnecessary prints or patterns. The optimal sleeve length is three-quarters, or short, but hiding the shoulders. It shouldn't be too tight. The most suitable option for the office is a sheath dress. This category also includes various formal sundresses.

Blouses and shirts

To create a variety of business images there should be at least 4-5 pieces. They can be of different colors, but not too bright. Be sure to have one or two snow-white ones without unnecessary decoration for formal events. In the autumn-winter period, you can also safely warm yourself with classic turtlenecks.

Types of dress code

It is worth noting that the concept of “dress code” has a fairly broad meaning than just business style. Essentially, it means the rules for choosing clothes that are suitable for a certain situation, for example, going to the theater or a club party in the Retro style. Not to mention social events, exhibitions, presentations and other official events. A girl simply has to look the part on them. Usually, the invitation to such a celebration indicates a specific type of dress code. Therefore, we will consider its main types, which are the most popular in our time.

White Tie is the most “pompous” official reception, at the level of top officials of states. In ancient times, girls appeared in this form at balls. So, the basic requirements: floor-length dress, long gloves, jewelry, furs, mini handbag, collected hair, quite active makeup.

Black Tie means lavish weddings and various receptions. This is what Hollywood actresses look like at the Oscars. Here in high esteem classic and elegance, so the dress and accessories should not be pretentious or extravagant. The length remains the same - to the floor or below the knee. Heeled shoes are required and preferably closed ones. Jewelry is replaced by no less presentable jewelry.

Cocktails are less formal events, such as premieres, exhibition openings, and corporate evenings. Choose a dress that has the same name as “cocktail”. Here you have the freedom to choose the color, style, and length of the outfit. Sometimes a dress can be replaced with a suit, even a pantsuit. High heels remain for shoes, and accessories become more modest.

Semi Formal (semi-formal) - implies a free style, but corresponding to the format of the event. You can wear a smart daytime dress, but after 6 pm you should give preference to a “cocktail” dress. The image should be elegant and discreet.

A5 (After Five) – means that the beginning of the evening will be after 5 o’clock. For such an occasion, any outfit from a “cocktail” dress and suits to tops, blouses and trousers that suit the occasion will be appropriate.

Business Best - the most strict business appearance for international negotiations, important meetings with partners, etc. Here the requirements are clearly stated: a suit must be black, gray or dark blue, a plain shirt or blouse underneath, closed shoes with a heel of no more than 5 cm, tights are required, hair must only be tied up. Modest earrings, rings, watches are acceptable.

Casual(informal) - casual style without any strict rules and restrictions.

Dress code rules

Let's consider the basic rules of the dress code for office style, which will be relevant for some cases and in everyday life:

• The color scheme of your work wardrobe should be calm tones.
• Choose things that are convenient, comfortable, fit well, but are not too tight.
• Deep necklines and slits in skirts, too short lengths, transparent clothing, tops with straps, open shoes, provocative accessories and jewelry are prohibited.
• Also prohibited are excessively high heels and platforms; such shoes are best reserved for evening events.
• Nude or black tights are always a must.
• Long hair should be tied up everyday hairstyle: ponytail or bun. For a short haircut, styling is required.
• Makeup and choose a natural manicure. Excessively long nails are not allowed. A French manicure or clear varnish will give your nails a well-groomed look.