There is an expression, “Dress for the job you want, not for the job you have.” Even if you’re happy in your job it’s still important to look your best. This doesn’t necessarily mean wearing a suit, but it does mean looking neat, clean and well-groomed (daily showers!!!) at all times. A Company’s objective in establishing a formal work dress code is to enable the employees to project the professional image that is in keeping with the needs of the clients and customers to trust them.
In a formal business environment, the standard of dressing for men and women is a suit, a jacket, and pants or a skirt, or a dress paired with appropriate accessories. Clothing that reveals too much cleavage, your back, your chest, your feet, your stomach or your underwear is not appropriate for a place of business. Clothing should be pressed and never wrinkled. Torn, dirty, or frayed clothing is unacceptable. All seams must be finished. Any clothing that has words, terms, or pictures that may be offensive to other employees is unacceptable. If you experience uncertainty about acceptable, professional formal business attire for work, please ask your supervisor or your Human Resources staff.
Slacks that are cotton or synthetic material pants, wool pants, flannel pants, pants that match a suit jacket, and nice looking dress synthetic pants are acceptable. Inappropriate slacks or pants include any that are too informal, this includes jeans, sweatpants, exercise pants, Bermuda shorts, short shorts (all shorts!), bib overalls, leggings, and any spandex or other form-fitting pants such as people wear for exercise or biking. Dresses, skirts, skirts with jackets, dressy two-piece knit suits or sets, and skirts that are split at or below the knee are acceptable. Shirts, dress shirts, sweaters, tops, and turtlenecks are acceptable attire for work if they contribute to the appearance of formal, professional dress. Most suit jackets or sports coats are also desirable attire for the office.
Conservative walking shoes, dress shoes, oxfords, loafers, boots, flats, dress heels, and backless shoes are acceptable for work. Not wearing stockings or socks is inappropriate. Athletic shoes, tennis shoes, thongs, flip-flops, slippers, and any casual shoe with an open toe are not acceptable in the office.
A professional appearance is encouraged and excessive makeup is unprofessional. Remember that some employees are allergic to the chemicals in perfumes and makeup, so wear these substances with restraint. Hats are not appropriate in the office. Head Covers that are required for religious purposes or to honor cultural tradition are allowed (don’t forget your koptuff!).
Certain days can be declared dress down days, generally Fridays. On these days, business casual clothing, although never clothing potentially offensive to others, is allowed. Clothing that has the company logo is encouraged. Sports team, university, and fashion brand names on clothing are generally acceptable. You might want to keep a jacket in your office for the days when a client unexpectedly appears on a dress down day, especially if the client is wearing a suit.
These dress code policies are generally what you might see in an office, it is always best to consult your offices rules first. For some more tips read the attached article. http://www.executivestyle.com.au/20-tips-to-dress-appropriately-for-work-2xvcy