How to Dress Professionally for Women

Ever since we were three years old most girls have been playing dress up. At first we were princesses and pop stars. Then we began making up our own fashion sense and dressing up how we wanted the world to view us. But, hardly ever do we think about how to look our most professional. So, just like in my men's article I'm going to lay out the two different types of professional dress. Business and business casual, but unlike men's the line between the two gets a little blurry. Mostly because women's fashions change frequently and we are expected to decorate ourselves a little more. Business casual maybe a social event at your company, casual weddings, maybe receptionist job, or church. Outfits could consist of any conservation top and slacks or a skirt. Business attire would be a pant suit or traditional skirt suit.

Professional attire for women isn't about what kind of outfit you're wearing but how tastefully it is worn. Lets start out with suits assuming you need them. There are two main options, a pantsuit and a skirt suit. Many professional settings still consider pantsuits inappropriate. The thought process behind that is they aren't feminine enough or are considered vulgar by elders. A good place to wear these would be to a fashion forward event or in a mostly male work place. I remember when I interviewed for a job as a saleslady at a tire shop and all I had were skirt suits. I got the job, but my coworkers never let me live it down that I could be such a girl-y girl. Pantssuits should not be worn too tightly. I prefer wide legged bottoms since they don't grip the lower thighs and flow more evenly off of your frame. Also, make sure they're long enough. When you buy a suit try it on with one of your more popular pair of heels. If the legs don't flow then you'll end up looking like a toddler who out grew her clothes too quickly.

Skirt suits should always be knee length or longer. Always. This is so while you're sitting or walking up stairs you're not giving the not so gentlemen a show. And yes before you protest, I know they're hard to find lately. The best color to buy either type of suit is black. Once you have a black suit buy one other neutral colored suit. Then venture into seasonal colors if you'd like. Make sure all of them are made of sturdy fabric. There's nothing worse than showing every pantyline or buying a white suit only to realize you could count your freckles through it. And, if you need slacks or skirt separates follow the same rules as you would for color, size, and cut.

Picking out a few good shirts is the easiest way for you to expand your wardrobe. Start out by picking underpinnings for your suit jackets. You can wear a spaghetti strap top if you know you'll be keeping the jacket on the whole time. If not pick a broader strapped shirt like a shell or thinner long sleeved tops. The goal is to keep from looking bulky. Another good option is wearing an A-line or princess cut dress under a jacket. Once you've got underpinnings together pick out blouses for the rest of the time. Button ups, sweaters, knit tops, anything that is conservative or lady like should be acceptable. It's okay to go a little shirt crazy next time you're at the store since shirts are the easiest way to change the look of a suit.

Once you've got the basics together you need to pick out your accessories. These are a great way to change the look of an outfit. Starting with you purse and shoes pick out one basic set that match each other. Usually black. Grab a bag that is relevant to your body type. If you're petite you should carry a small bag or clutch. If you're bigger a small tote style may work for you. More women make the mistake of justifying a wrong sized purse based on their needs, but in the world of professional attire nobody cares. Keep business items in a suitcase if you need more room since that isn't considered part of you're outfit. The only rule for shoes is that they be close toed and well maintained. Why close toed? All it really gets down to is it looks more polished and looks best with pantyhose. Pantyhose? Yes, anytime any part of your leg is showing you must be wearing pantyhose. If your legs are especially problematic you can wear leg makeup under them. If you're not used to wearing them start out a size or two too big until you get the hang of it. Always wear your skin tone, they're not an opportunity to gain a tan.

Jewelry should be neat and tasteful. Women are so lucky that unlike men we can use jewelery to emphasize our outfits. Wearing valuable pieces such as gold, silver and pearls is highly recommended for one reason. Quality. If you're going to wear costume jewelery make sure it is well constructed. Flimsy clasps or poor materials can bring the look down. Earrings should be dime sized or smaller, with the exception of threaders and other delicate dangling earrings. Necklaces and bracelets should be worn one at a time, not piled on top of each other. Also, don't forget scarves and hair pieces to complement your look. Silk scarves can be worn around the neck, as belts, or even as a purse accent. When you're picking out hair accessories steer clear of banana clips, visible booby pins, and anything you've seen used in a hair salon while you're getting your hair cut as a general rule. Actual fashion pieces and sleek hair ties in your hair color are best.

Well that's about all. Just keep in mind you want to look as professional as possible. While all us princesses know how to be sexy, daring, or spunky that's not what you're proving when you're dressed up to make impressions. Shirts should cover up, skirts down to knees, nothing should be riding up, and make sure you don't have panty or bra lines. Knowing how to dress professionally will earn you more respect when you speak and add credibility to what you have to offer people. If a woman doesn't want to dress the part then she should stay out of business while we are all struggling to be taken serious.