What exactly is an office outfit?
Simply put, an office outfit consists of garments that you wear specifically for work. Yet it isn't workwear like a uniform, because you can wear your business clothing perfectly well outside the office. The main function of office clothing is the representativeness of the organisation through the employee. This immediately raises a point of discussion. Whereas men used to appear at the office in a (three-piece) suit as standard, there's nowadays more room to show your personal taste. Usually this is within set boundaries, though.
Which clothing style suits you best?
But what do you actually wear? That depends on the expectations about you and your role. This is, incidentally, a nice topic to discuss during your job interview or introduction! Still, it's largely a matter of feeling. You automatically dress more formally when you regularly visit clients or welcome visitors, for example. You can also take your immediate colleagues as an example; what are they wearing and which combinations are popular in the workplace? Broadly speaking, you can divide office outfits for men into the following styles:
At some start-ups and industries, it's not customary to come to the office in business clothing. The rule of thumb is then: informal but well-groomed. You won't hear anyone complain as long as your clothes are clean and well maintained. This means your outfit has no holes, loose threads or (deliberate) worn patches. At these kinds of organisations, it's therefore no problem to combine a rugged pair of jeans with a T-shirt and sneakers.
This is a relaxed clothing style in which you combine casual clothing with a few business elements. Men are regularly dressed, for example, in a stylish pair of jeans with a polo shirt or a pullover. In addition, you can choose to wear smart sneakers with it. Do take the time, however, to think about textures and colours; you don't want to give the impression that you just pulled something out of your wardrobe.
This is a business clothing style that's less formal in nature. You don't wear a tie and even undo the top button of your button-down shirt. Jeans are not done, so a chino is an excellent alternative. You can also opt for a smart blazer. It's not advisable to wear wide or loose clothing. In addition, you swap your sneakers for smart shoes.
This is a more formal way of dressing than business casual. You're expected to wear a tie with trousers and a matching blazer. The colours are also more understated and less bright. The shirt is usually a light colour, especially white or light blue. Try to coordinate shades (for example dark blue with light blue) for the best result. With this you wear polished smart men's shoes.
This is the most formal clothing style and common at law firms and in the financial sector. In these organisations, men usually wear a dark suit with a light-coloured shirt and sometimes a waistcoat. Yet you have freedom of choice. Subtle lines and patterns, for example, aren't unusual. In addition, you can combine neutral colours such as blue, brown and grey excellently with pastel colours. Ideal for stylish accessories such as ties and pocket squares.
You've chosen an office outfit that suits you perfectly. Great! Of course, you'll keep giving your own touch to your business clothing. An outfit isn't static; it changes along with you and the occasion you dress for. Stay true to who you are as a person. People immediately notice when you wear something you don't feel comfortable in. Still, there are aspects to keep in mind to always leave a good impression:
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Choose a fit that suits your build
There's nothing more annoying than spending all day in clothing that's too roomy or too tight. So take the time to choose the right fit. It's not only more comfortable, it also benefits your appearance. For tall men, for example, there are special sleeve 7 shirts -
Make sure your clothing is crease-free
You can (have it) ironed or steamed, but with non-iron shirts you save time and money. These shirts are treated so that your own body heat gradually makes creases disappear. Ideal when you're regularly on the move or travelling! -
Don't overdo it with accessories
Accessories finish off your office outfit, so it's important to be balanced with them. A watch combined with cufflinks looks stylish, but make sure you don't add too many details, because that's distracting. -
Pay close attention to your colour palette
No matter which dress code applies, an office outfit stands or falls by colour combinations. So think carefully about colours that complement each other. Make sure, for example, that the colour of your belt matches your shoes. -
Be prepared for summer
In summer it's nice to wear airy clothing, for example a linen suit or a short-sleeved shirt. At many employers you're not allowed to appear in shorts. Should this be the case, keep the length to just above the knee.
