If you are working in a professional workplace, you will be required to dress in formal attire. This is for the company to establish a professional image, necessary to keep up with the needs of your clients and to gain your customers’ trust.

Since a proper dress code is often a part of a company’s policy, failure to comply may lead to disciplinary action. We have listed the basic requirements for dressing in formal business attire to guide you through the do’s and don’ts.

For skirts, dresses and skirted suits

Acceptable:

• dresses
• skirts
• skirts with jackets
• dressy two-piece knit suits or sets
• skirts which are split at or below the knee

Inappropriate:

• short, tight skirts
• mini-skirts
• skorts
• beach dresses
• sundresses
• spaghetti-strap dresses

Remember:

Your dress and skirt should not ride halfway up the thigh and should be at a length at which you can sit comfortably in public.

For shirts, tops, blouses and jackets

Acceptable:

• shirts
• dress shirts
• sweaters
• tops
• turtlenecks
• suit jackets
• sports coats

Inappropriate:

• tank tops
• midriff tops
• statement shirts with potentially offensive words, graphics or logo
• halter-tops
• tops with bare shoulders or plunging necklines
• polo shirts
• sweatshirts
• t-shirts

For Trousers

Acceptable:

• Trousers made of cotton or synthetic material
• flannel Trousers
• Trousers that match a suit jacket

Inappropriate:

• jeans
• sweatpants
• Bermuda shorts
• exercise pants
• shorts
• Dungarees
• leggings

For shoes and footwear

Acceptable:

• dress shoes
• loafers
• brogues
• conservative walking shoes
• boots
• flats
• backless shoes
• dress heels

Inappropriate:

• trainers
• tennis shoes
• slippers
• flip-flops
• casual shoes with open toes
• not wearing stockings or socks

Accessories and jewellery

For a more flattering appearance, wearing professional ties, belts, scarves and jewellery is encouraged. Whilst head covers that are required for religious purposes or to honour cultural tradition are allowed, it is inappropriate to wear hats.

Makeup, perfume and cologne

Keep in mind that whilst it is encouraged to wear a modicum of makeup, excessive and heavy makeup is considered unprofessional. Additionally, some employees are allergic to the chemicals found in perfumes and makeup so use them sparingly.

With 30 years of experience and our knowledgeable team of professionals, North Central Office continues to produce high-quality bespoke garments giving a high degree of customer satisfaction. We take pride in our high levels of customer care, our commitment to the work wear industry bringing creativity and workmanship to deliver the best quality products and a professional service.