Dress For Success!

Okay all you VOLS! With all of you preparing to go out there into the professional world, we’re sure you have been given the basic rules of presentation and attire by now. Yet, working in career services, we still see quite a few people that come through with questions on what is and is not appropriate interview, business professional, and business casual attire. Well, we are here to give a few more tips to add to your knowledge of the dos and don’ts of business attire.

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Business Professional: Should be worn in the most professional situations (i.e. presentations, meetings).

Men

· Mismatch suits- with good taste of course.

· Ties dress up business professional looks, while sweaters dress them down. Both are acceptable.

Women

· Best choice is the long shirt/ pants suit in a neutral color.

· Collared shirt or simple shell top underneath the suit (subtle, flattering colors.)

· Nude or black pantyhose under skirts.

· Dress shoes.

· Tops and bottoms don’t necessarily need to match; complimenting colors and subtle patterns are okay.

Business Casual

Men

· Collared Polo shirts paired with nice slacks.

·  Khaki pants.

·  Sweater or nice collared shirt without a tie. Shirt should always be tucked in.

·  Dress shoes.

Women

·  Pants (NOT JEANS!) or skirts (a split below the knee is okay.)

·  Blouses or sweaters. All clothing must be comfortable and flattering.

·  WARNING!  Variety of combinations as long as they are not too short, tight, or revealing. Avoid ruffles and flounces.

·  Dress shoes.

Other notables: No hats, unless for religious purposes. Limit jewelry, makeup, perfume and cologne. Limit visible body piercings, with good taste. 

For more info, visit the sites:

http://www.ou.edu/oubigxii/Excellent%20Dress.pdf

http://www.collegefashion.net/fashion-tips/how-to-dress-professionally-business-dress-code-basics/

http://humanresources.about.com/od/workrelationships/a/dress_code.htm