The Golden Rules You Should Know About Office Dressing

When it comes to dressing for work, the set of dos and don'ts can be daunting. But when you're at least aware of them, you're likely to subconsciously follow them. Our 10 golden rules of dressing for the office will ensure that you're prepared for whatever the day may bring, you impress your boss, and you feel confident, all of which will help your career. (Because who wants to think about their outfits all the time when they're gunning for a promotion?) To help you to achieve all of this, we highlighted 10 things that will seamlessly help you to navigate what not to wear to work and found a few very stylish women who know how it's done. Nine-to-fivers, this one's for you!

Keep scrolling to get to know the commandments and shop the pieces that are in keeping with these all-important tips.

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724593-1460069622

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724409-1460067626

Thou Shalt Embrace Color
(Image credit: Style du Monde )

While it can be tempting to wear nothing but neutrals every day, you'll experience a boost of energy when you add some color into your office attire, and your co-workers' compliments will prove that others have taken note.

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724415-1460067627

Thou Shalt Be Wrinkle-Free
(Image credit: Collage Vintage )

Take our advice: Avoid costly trips to the dry cleaner and invest in a steamer already.

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724411-1460067626

Thou Shalt Not Wear Anything Requiring a Strapless Bra
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

Consider it a sure sign that your outfit is too revealing.

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724412-1460067626

Thou Shalt Have Polished Flats on Hand
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

Always be prepared for an impromptu trek across town if an unexpected meeting comes up.

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724413-1460067626

Thou Shalt Not Wear a Questionably Short Item
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

If you have to question it, it's too short for work. Trust us.

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724407-1460067625

Thou Shalt Stick to Clean-Cut Denim
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

If you're able to wear jeans to the office, make sure they're free of fading and distress. Opt for a crisp, dark pair instead.

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724406-1460067625

Thou Shalt Balance Casual Pieces With Professional Ones
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

If you want to incorporate casual pieces, a polished blazer, crisp pair of trousers, or block-heel shoes will do wonders for a T-shirt, for example.

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724408-1460067626

Thou Shalt Have a Just-in-Case Uniform
(Image credit: Style du Monde )

Having a go-to look in the event that an unexpected meeting with your boss pops on the calendar or big presentation is scheduled last-minute will do wonders for your anxiety levels.

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724410-1460067626

Thou Shalt Plan Your Outfit the Night Before
(Image credit: Collage Vintage )

Without the stressful time constraints of weekday mornings, you'll likely choose more appropriate, stylish office attire. And sleeping an extra 15 minutes in the morning is kind of a big deal.

the-10-commandments-of-dressing-for-the-office-1724414-1460067627

Thou Shalt Not Wear Anything Your Boss Wouldn't Wear
(Image credit: Collage Vintage )

Always follow your boss's lead. This is perhaps the biggest indicator of whether or not your outfit is appropriate for the workplace.

Shop pieces in keeping with these 10 golden rules:

This post was originally published at an earlier date and has recently been updated.

Allyson Payer
Senior Editor

Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.