Elevating Workplace Fashion
Discovering one’s personal style is a journey that takes time, involving the curation of a closet filled with essentials and timeless pieces that mirror their identity. Many do not confine themselves to a singular style; depending on the day, their mood, or the event they’re attending. Fashion-forward individuals take pleasure in switching up their looks, opting for relaxed jeans and a fur trench coat during the day, and transitioning to a vintage slip dress paired with kitten heels for the evening.
The scenario changes when one steps into the workforce and finds their creative expression through fashion restricted. Many face the challenge of conforming to workplace attire norms, limiting their ability to showcase their personality through clothing. However, a growing number of professionals are actively redefining these traditional boundaries, advocating for the importance of self-expression.
Confidence Through Clothing
According to clinical psychologist Michelle Pal’s study on fashion psychology, there is a correlation between the clothes we wear and our mood. Colors and textures evoke different emotions, therefore, it’s important to pay attention to what we feel good about. As Pal explains, cheap fabrics may lead to irritation, highlighting the importance of investing in high-quality pieces.
Sonya Stasiuk, 23, currently employed in the corporate fashion industry, discusses the positivity surrounding personal style at her workplace. She says, “Knowing that I’m able to show up how I want to show up to work, within the dress code expectations, grants me the autonomy to represent myself in the workplace in a comfortable way.” Dressing authentically allows Sonya to enter the office confidently each morning.
The Evolving Landscape of Workplace Attire
The evolution of office fashion acknowledges that people flourish when granted the freedom to express their true selves. Work environments are transforming in alignment with the dynamic landscape of societal norms. Fashion, much like our culture, is diverse and ever-changing.
“I don’t know the science behind it, but I swear, dressing like a kindergarten teacher for your corporate job makes work so much more fun,” shares Autumn Gruber in her pinned TikTok video. She goes on to say how wearing a polka-dot dress makes her excited to go into the office. Autumn gets creative with her outfits for her marketing job, allowing her upbeat personality to shine through her clothing. In her videos where she gets dressed for work, her outfits include pops of color and patterned maxi dresses.
Elevating Your Office Style
In a 2023 LinkedIn article written by Image Stylist & Woman Empowerment Coach Anastacia Haye, she encourages individuals to express themselves at work through statement pieces, the experimentation of colors, and, of course, accessorizing. She explains how your style choices enhance your confidence, boosting both productivity and mood.
“With these tips in mind, you can inject your own personality and style into your professional outfits without jeopardizing the image you portray at work,” says Haye. You shouldn’t have to compromise your love for fashion when it comes to your business image.
To create the perfect formula for a work look, Sonya suggests building a simple base and then integrating standout pieces. She gravitates towards the addition of vibrant pants and blazers into her base. Whether through funky jewelry, pops of red, or bold belts, statement pieces are the most expressive part of any look.
For Sonya, working in the fashion industry encouraged her to discover what she feels best in, inspired by her co-workers. Those who integrate their distinctive style into their professional lives prove they can be both authentic and career-driven.