A Diva State of Mind

The dress code in an organization is going to be dependent upon the work environment. This blog is going to speak to those work environments that call for business casual/business dress.

There seems to be some confusion about what is considered business casual attire in an office setting. When I started my new job, I was expecting to come into the workforce with everyone, especially the ladies, dressed to the nine. That was SO NOT the case.

Although the majority of people wear what most consider business casual, there are always a few people who just don’t get it or just don’t care. So here are some things that are NOT considered work appropriate:

1. UGG Boots: When traveling by metro, no one wants to wear their heels for that entire trip. Believe me, I understand as a fellow metro rider. So UGG Boots are definitely appropriate when traveling to work. But once you get there, you need to leave them under your desk until the work day is over! There is no reason you should walk around the office wearing UGG Boots in what’s suppose to be a professional environment.

2. Jeans on NON Casual Fridays: It’s called Casual/Dress Down Fridays for a reason. That means, that is the only day you “dress down.” There is no reason I should see you walking around the office on a Tuesday wearing jeans (and people don’t even wear nice dark denim, boot cut, wide leg jeans) SMH. Of course, if you work in an environment wear jeans are worn every day, then doesn’t apply.

3. Something you would wear to the club: Do I really need to explain this one? When you make plans to go out to the club, lounge, etc, most likely you’re wearing something tight, short and revealing. Unless you have an “after hours” profession, that tight of dress is NEVER appropriate in an office work environment.

4. Shirts/dress ABOVE the knee: A lot of people don’t know what’s considered too short. For an office environment, your skirt/dress should be knee length. The baby thigh should not be exposed!

5. Sweats/velour outfit: Ok, I was really surprised by this one. I went to work one causal Friday and the majority of the people had on jeans. But one person took Causal Fridays to the extreme with a matching jacket and pants velour outfit. Really?! Since when was coming to work in sweats appropriate?? Leave the velour at home for those Sunday afternoons when you want to lounge around.

Now I know everyone wants to be an individual and there is nothing wrong with that all. But have we learned nothing from Stacy & Clinton (TLC’s “What Not to Wear”)? Use color, prints and accessories to exude your individual style while still looking the part at work. I continue to try to define my style and incorporate my own individual style into the way I look. You should always “show up” wherever you go, because you never know who you’re going to see or meet on any particular day. I wouldn’t want to show up to work in UGG Boots and find out I have a meeting with the Vice President of my organization. How embarrassing would that be?!