BY: ANDREA CHENG (TEXT) AND KRISTINA RUTKOWSKI (MARKET)
Shop the look: 1. J. Crew pants, $230; net-a-porter.com 2. Barneys New York notepad, $65; barneys.com 3. Elizabeth and James earrings, $150; shopbop.com 4. Trina Turk bangle, $78; trinaturk.com 5. Zara heels, $90; zara.com 6. Mango shirt, $50; mango.com
There it is on your calendar: a meeting with your boss. And regardless of what’s on the agenda—whether it’s something as casual as a weekly “touch base” or as big as a discussion for a promotion—dressing for the occasion will always work in your favor. Communicate confidence and sophistication with crisp no-nonsense separates, like a striped button-down and sweeping wide-leg pants. But don’t lose yourself in boring basics—pay attention to beautiful details, like the row of fabric-covered buttons on your shirt or the piped lining of your pants, to make you stand apart from the rest. Personality-packed extras help too, like sculptural gold jewelry and stacked red pumps. The finishing touch? A stunning leather-bound pad for when you take notes.
When meeting with your boss, it’s important to dress professionally and make a good impression. Here are some tips on what to wear for such occasions:
1. Dress formally: Opt for a well-fitted suit or a tailored dress with a blazer. Choose colors that exude confidence and professionalism, such as navy, black, or gray.
2. Pay attention to details: Ensure your clothing is clean, pressed, and wrinkle-free. Check for any loose threads or missing buttons. Attention to these small details shows your attention to detail in your work as well.
3. Dress modestly: Keep your outfit modest and avoid anything too revealing or flashy. It’s important to maintain a professional and respectful appearance.
4. Choose appropriate footwear: Wear closed-toe shoes that are clean and polished. Avoid overly casual shoes like sneakers or sandals unless it’s explicitly allowed in your workplace.
5. Consider the company culture: Take into account the dress code and culture of your workplace. Some companies may have a more formal dress code, while others may allow for a more business-casual attire. Dressing appropriately for the environment shows your understanding of the company’s values.
6. Keep accessories minimal: Opt for simple and tasteful accessories. Avoid anything too distracting or noisy, such as large statement jewelry or excessive accessories.
Remember, dressing professionally shows respect for the meeting and demonstrates your commitment to your role. It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed when meeting with your boss.