Business Attire

A number of companies these days are now letting go of the usual perception of “office attire” – that is to wear formal business attire. Thus, starting with the job interview, this kind of dress code is no longer a requisite.

The global financial crisis has challenged unemployed or those who were recently laid off from their jobs to find other opportunities. Purchasing an expensive business attire is pretty much not a priority among these people. However, experts say that this is not a good excuse to be more presentable during an interview.

The basic advice they could give among jobseekers is to ask for the dress code. If you are called for an interview, ask the person (usually a personnel from the Human Resources) what’s the appropriate dress to wear. It would be disadvantageous to wear flashy or very expensive clothes during the interview, as it gives an impression that you don’t need the job that much.

Having a proper dress code doesn’t guarantee the job but neatness and manners do. It shows that you are respectful to the interviewer, which could be your future boss, and that you are serious about getting the job.

In these hard times wherein people are holding on to their cash as much as possible, it still pays off to dress to impress. The good thing is, you don’t have to spend much to dress up for your ideal job.

Experts say that this is the best time for men and women to continue wearing business clothing to show serious effort in their current jobs and for the position that they are striving to get.

Reflect Image fashion stylist Anita Greene said that she’s observed a significant change among women in business establishments. She said that women are dressing smartly and stylishly. She said that two-piece suits have become a regular wear for women.

Despite this current trend, Greene suggested that women should still have jackets, pants and skirts in their closet for mix and matching business clothing in a daily basis. It wouldn’t hurt to have a vest, cardigan or a couple of tops as part of the wardrobe for future use.

She added that aside from the clothes, it pays to still look professional and confident during work. It adds credibility and gives out good impression to prospective clients.