Dressing for the office is an essential part of our lifestyle; it helps us create a powerful and professional first impression. Following workplace dress codes, and dressing appropriately for formal places/events is an important aspect of dressing. However, it does not mean that we have to compromise on style. With the increasing variety of formal and semi-formal clothing lines available today, it has become easier to dress appropriately for the workplace while still showing off our personality through our style. Shirts, blazers, dresses, cord sets, sarees, kurtas, etc. are some of the types of clothes that one can choose from to build an appropriate yet stylish wardrobe for the office.
Shirts are the most common form of formal attire for the workplace, and with their extensive range of styles, fabrics and designs, they allow for a lot of creativity while still following the dress code. There are short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts, plain and patterned, with or without pockets, in different collar and cuff variations, etc. What makes shirts versatile is their ability to be paired with outerwear, such as blazers, cardigans, or sweaters, and their ability to be dressed up or down.
When it comes to shirts for the office, it's important to choose the right shirt type that not only showcases your unique personality but also keeps you comfortable during long work hours. Speaking of unique designs, a brand that is great for this is MatterBlue. MatterBlue designs shirts with unique prints, ranging from tie & dyes to animal prints, abstracts, solids and more: empowering people who want to showcase their unique personalities through their clothing. The shirts are also ethically conscious, with a zero-waste policy.
If you want to stay within the dress code while still expressing your personality, opt for shirts with subtle patterns and colors. Solid colors, pastels or monochromatic designs that complement your skin tone will make you stand out. A few easy-to-pair shirt colors include blue, white, pink, yellow, and green.
Another great way to improve your office style is to pay attention to fabrics. Cotton and linen shirts are comfortable and breathable, and silk and satin dress shirts are elegant and luxurious. Also, remember to keep a few tailored fit shirts in your wardrobe as they are more comfortable and give off a more professional vibe.
There's certainly no one way to style a shirt-for work, making it particularly versatile. For a traditional and formal look, pair your shirt with a suit, dress pants, and polished dress shoes. A denim jean and a solid-coloured shirt are perfect for a casual dress code, and a well-tailored jacket and dress pants can nail semi-formal attire. For a more dressed-down casual appearance, wear an untucked shirt over jeans or dress khakis and then accessorise with a wristwatch, a belt, or a pair of decent shoes, a bag, or a scarf to elevate the outfit.
While dressing for work, comfort is critical. So, make sure you choose clothes that are comfortable to wear, that do not wrinkle easily, and that do not restrict your mobility. Avoid clothes that are too tight or too loose, as they can make you feel uncomfortable and can limit your ability to be productive.
In conclusion, dressing appropriately for work and still being able to showcase one's personality is easier than it sounds. With the plethora of formal and semi-formal choices available, planning an outfit for work is easier than ever, even without breaking a sweat. You can pick your favourite print, style, and the fabric for a shirt, dress it up or down and always keep it in your wardrobe, and top it off with an accessory of your choice. It would be best to keep in mind the surrounding environment, dress codes, and most importantly, stay comfortable and confident.
Brand, such as MatterBlue, offer unique shirts that allow you to express yourself and stay within dress codes, with ethical and conscious approaches. Invest in your office wardrobe and leave a lasting impression with your clothing choices.
