Dress codes can vary from company to company, and even the line between professional and casual dress is becoming blurrier. So just how should you dress for a new job?

• Ask About Dress Code Before You Start - Before you start a new job, ask your new boss or the department of human resources what the company’s dress code is. If you need clarification, just ask.
• When In Doubt, Overdress - Your new company may be a slacks-and-nice-shirt environment, but when in doubt, throw a tie into the mix. You can always remove the tie when you see others aren’t wearing one. For women, go with black pants and a dress shirt - you can always swap your heels for flats or suit jacket for a more casual blazer. But do not overdress on overdressing - put away the tuxedo and cocktail dress!
• Pay Attention To What Others Are Wearing - Look around and see what your colleagues are wearing. Feel free to take it a notch above, but never a notch below. Try and stay on par with your wardrobe.
• Dress How You Want To Be Treated - If you don’t dress seriously, you’re not going to be taken seriously. But if you dress smart and neatly, you’re more likely to be treated in a professional fashion.
• Dress According To Function - Make sure you dress according to job function. If you’re going to be stocking shelves, you may not want to wear your best pair of pants or a skirt. Likewise, if you’re going to be on your feet all day, choose a comfortable pair of shoes - not four-inch heels.
• Don’t Be Flashy - Keep your makeup and patterns to a minimum, and if you have it, it’s probably not a good idea to flaunt it. The jury is still out on whether cleavage is acceptable in the workplace or not, but you’ll be in a safer place by covering up.
• Be Neat And Clean - Make sure your clothes aren’t stained, ripped or wrinkled. If so, get the iron, stain remover and sewing kit out, pronto. And make sure your hair is brushed and your makeup is clean.
• Wear Clothes That Fit You Properly - Likewise, you want to wear clothes that fit you, so get to the tailor. Don’t wear anything too big, and especially don’t wear anything that’s too tight!
• Cover Up Tattoos And Body Jewelry - In some workplaces, these may be acceptable, but the more professional you get, the less likely you’ll see people flaunting their body art. Cover up until you’re absolutely sure.
• Have Last-Minute Back-Up Clothes - Your job may have casual Fridays, but what happens if there’s a last minute meeting? Throw a suit jacket and nice shoes in your cubicle, and throw them on for the emergency meeting. You’ll look more polished.

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