What Is the Business Professional Dress Code?

The way you dress can play a big role in your professional career.

Part of the culture of a company is the dress code of its employees. Some companies prefer a business casual approach, while other companies require a business professional dress code.

Men should wear business suits if possible; however, blazers can be worn with dress slacks or nice khaki trousers. Wearing a tie is a requirement for men in a business professional dress code. Sweaters worn with a shirt and tie are an option as well.

Women should wear business suits or skirt-and-blouse combinations. Women adhering to the business professional dress code can wear slacks, shirts and other formal combinations.

Women dressing for a business professional dress code should try to be conservative. Revealing clothing should be avoided, and body art should be covered. Jewellery should be conservative and tasteful.

When choosing colour schemes for your business professional wardrobe, it's advisable to stay conservative. Wear "power" colours such as black, navy, dark grey and earth tones. Avoid bright colours that attract attention.

Men should wear dark-coloured dress shoes.

Women can wear heels or flats. Women should avoid open-toe shoes and strapless shoes that expose the heel of the foot.

Always practice good hygiene. For men adhering to a business professional dress code, this means good grooming habits. Facial hair should be either shaved off or well groomed. Clothing should be neat and always pressed. Women should avoid make-up that stands out in a distracting manner. Hair should be well-maintained.

Never wear jeans, athletic apparel or athletic footwear. Offensive T-shirts, distracting jewellery and rips in clothing are not appropriate in a business professional dress code.

Women adhering to a business professional dress code should avoid shirts that expose cleavage and back areas.

Shorts are never allowed in a business professional dress code. Women should wear pantyhose or stockings as not to expose their bare legs. Head wear is not permitted in a business professional dress code unless it is for religious significance.