The straight answer is, yes! The colours you wear for work do matter. Why? Colour gets you noticed, so wearing the right colours can be very beneficial for being noticed favourably. Wearing the wrong colours can get you noticed just as easily, but for the wrong reasons. Think about how you want to present yourself, how you want to be perceived by the people you work with and regularly communicate with. Work is where most of us spend the majority of our time, so that’s why it’s so important to carefully consider what pieces and colours to invest in for your capsule work wardrobe.
Here are a few things to keep in mind..
First impressions count
We all know that first impressions count, and you only get one chance to make the right one. Think of your clothes as the first point of communication; it’s the first thing people are going to see before you get the chance to make your own, intended impression. What you want someone to see might not be what they actually do see, and this could be because of the colours you’re wearing.
Black is not for everyone
We know this goes without us saying, but knowing your colours is crucial to getting work dressing right. Know which colours flatter your skin tone, and which neutrals work best for you within that palette. Surprisingly, black is not for everybody, but there is a replacement for everyone. Because colour has the ability to affect how we feel (it can be a real mood-booster), wearing the right colours can make a real difference at work. Wearing the right colours will make you look energetic, whereas wearing the wrong colours will have the opposite effect. And nobody wants to work with people who look like they lack energy. For those who don’t want to wear too much colour at work, you can add some more subtle splashes of colour - whether that’s a pair of shoes, a scarf, a lipstick, jewellery or a tie.
Let your personality shine through
Dressing for work doesn’t mean you have to lose your personality! Once you know your best colours, and just as importantly, your best shapes for your body, building a work wardrobe will be fun and easy. It doesn’t have to result in wearing classic cuts, fits or suits. If you’re not a ‘Classic’, then you should steer away from classic tailoring and styles. Once you understand what looks great on you, you’ll be able to incorporate your personality into your workwear and find pieces that you feel comfortable in.
Capitalise on your options
There are many ways in which you can express your professionalism and personality and we need to be capitalising on this. Whether that’s wearing silk scarves in your best colours or using your jacket as a sign of professionalism (never enter a meeting without one on!).
Last but definitely not least
It is important to wear the right amount of makeup in the right colours. Certain colours will suit certain complexions and enhance your appearance immediately. Lipstick is also a very important communication tool when worn in the right colour. Your accessories should either be gold or silver depending on your colouring.