Although the work scene has gone through some unprecedented events and changes around the globe with the COVID-19 pandemic, uniforms still matter in the business world. Since the number of people returning to the office is on the rise, it is important to understand how the clothes you wear while on the job can speak volumes both about you and your company.

Changing your perception of work apparel can change the way you are seen in the professional world. Your Monday through Friday ensembles should be approached with the same level of care and attention as you would your weekend wardrobe. Just because you’re not hitting the town in your best going-out gear doesn’t mean you shouldn’t put some thought when it comes to putting together functional and fashionable work clothes.

Lay the Proper Foundation

Comfort truly became imperative in the new normal we found ourselves in, and now it’s more important than ever. It might be time to ditch the stilettos and power suit in favour of something a little more relaxed.

Clothing that is versatile and can take you from your home office to meetings or client calls is key in maintaining a polished look. Not feeling comfortable in what you’re wearing will show, whether you’re on a video call or in person.

Think about the message you want to communicate with your workwear. Your appearance should be an extension of your personal brand. If you want to convey confidence, opt for pieces that make you feel good. It doesn’t matter if it’s a simple button-down shirt or a great pair of pants, as long as you feel your best.

On the other hand, if you want to project professionalism, consider a more traditional approach to your work wardrobe. A well-fitting suit or tailored dress can make all the difference.

Don’t forget that first impressions count, even when you’re meeting someone virtually. Your appearance plays a role in how others perceive you and your company, so it’s important to make sure you’re not sending the wrong message.

Choose the Versatile Layer Pieces

The workspaces nowadays are nothing if not adaptable – not surprising why many have started shifting towards more relaxed dress codes, and in some cases no codes at all. Ask around to see which category your company falls in to know whether you can invest in some comfy pairs of jeans.

While some years ago, this kind of bottom wasn’t imaginable in the work setting, nowadays it’s more than acceptable to incorporate some denim, even if it’s only on casual Fridays. Dark denim can be part of your fashionable work clothes because they’ve got a sleek look, and you can use them off-duty too which is where the magic lies – dressing them up and down.

Top them off with a dress shirt, a nicely tailored blazer, or even an oversized blazer, and a fancy pair of loafers, or stylish office-friendly heels, and you’re done. Once you’re finished with the job for the day, switch the dress shirt with one of your favourite tees, and the blazer with a killer leather jacket, and you’re ready for some fun out with friends.

The best about classics like dark denim bottoms is they can also be worn year-round, so that would be another piece of advice when hunting for wardrobe staples. If you’re in doubt about a certain piece, consider whether you can wear it in winter as much as in summer both for your casual and work outfits to decide if it’s worth the investment.

Finish Up with the Right Accessories

Don’t think of the work scene as restrictive when it comes to accessorising either. The reason these features are more than welcome has to do with how seamlessly they can change any outfit, from drab to fab. A plain work shirt or cardigan can become ultra-fashionable with the right necklace or pair of earrings. A regular pair of tailored pants can become eye-catching with the statement belt and buckle.

If you like to play it safe with the colours of your clothes for work, yet still want to avoid the dull greys and monochromatic looks, then you can experiment by adding some colourful accessories. These can range from rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, to brooches, everyday handbags and belts.

Don’t go overboard and bold with these details if you want to achieve a look that’s well put-together and elegant. Too many flashy accessories can distract from your professionalism so they’re best left in the purse and kept for casual nights out. Choose colours that are slightly different from the hues found on your clothes, and stack up a desk drawer with emergency accessories in case you don’t have time to prep at home.

For the ultimate accessory that can have a tremendous effect on how people perceive you, albeit not visually, choose the perfect perfume that would refresh your whole ensemble. Remember to spray in moderation and in specific areas, such as your neck and wrists, to avoid being overwhelming for your colleagues and business associates.