Back to Work Wardrobe-What's right for you?

There are five core members of our blog group and while we talk about what's current in both the business casual and more formal wardrobe sense we haven't jumped at the chance to write about it. Why is that? Do we shy away from the topic because fashion can be perceived as a "women's topic" or are we hesitant to give advice on a topic about which so many people have something to say.

If we talk about our wardrobe are we somehow less professional? Are we afraid of getting it wrong? Regardless of the answer, we may not be willing to write about it but we are talking about it.

More often than not we all face the usual questions: What do I wear today? What do I wear to a casual lunch? Networking morning coffee? A first, second or third interview? Meeting a recruiter? On the first day of a new job? Negotiating salary? The answers on what to wear can be found using the same skills you are using to search, network or work. Research, compare notes with colleagues and friends, and think about what statement or impression you want to make. As many a marketer has said "perception is reality".

Think about what the spoken or unspoken dress code is for the activity. Consider what that would look like on you. Are you comfortable in the look? Does it make you smile when you look in the mirror? Does your elevator pitch or your questions sound better when you wear a particular outfit?

Are you trying to be that square peg fitting into a round hole or are you the round peg fitting in the square hole. Be yourself, if the situation calls for business casual but slacks don't feel quite right wear the casual skirt. Are you be making a powerful presentation, dress the part. At the end of the day it is important that you dress not only according to the norms of your work environment but also wear clothing that makes you feel you are presenting the best you.

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