Winter is coming – a quick guide for men and women workwear
Whether you are working for a corporate or a startup, following a certain dress code is not just important but mandatory in most work environments. While people have a wide range of options to choose from for summers, winter workwear dressing can be a bit tricky, especially if you are someone who loves to experiment.
Every season has its own charm, and the bright chilly mornings, warmth of coffee, unapologetically stodgy dishes, snow days and the warm embrace of layers make winters bewitchingly special. However, with this fascinating feeling comes the dreaded question of how to dress appropriately for work. You want to cover yourself in the most comfortable and warm layers to beat the freezing temperature, but you can’t just step into the office looking like a sloppy gorilla! So, how do you decide what to wear and what not to wear to office to keep your professional charm up and boost confidence?
Worry not! We understand how lazy winter morning can be. Digging through a pile of clothes would be the last thing you’d want to do. That’s why we have jotted down a quick checklist to take your winter fashion work wear to the next level and make your mornings easier.
Women’s workwear guide
What to wear
Warm fabrics like wool, cashmere and flannel are the best choices if you are going for a dress, but make sure that what you choose is neither too loose nor too tight. If you feel more comfortable with a simple jeans-shirt look, shake things up a notch by going for a turtleneck instead of the shirt and adding a blazer or a coat to it. Add a scarf and a pair of gloves to your dress for a subtly playful, yet cozy statement. A big-collared and long overcoat works like a charm to give off that bold, professional vibe. When it comes to footwear for winter, nothing beats a pair of comfy boots, bellies or closed-toe pumps.
What not to wear
If you are going for the dress route, try to avoid wearing extremely bright or patterned leggings. Go for simple black instead. Also, avoid wearing tall boots as they look less professional and more casual. The same goes for peep-toes, fishnet stockings and leggings. The word ‘home’ in home-stitched sweaters is there for a reason, so you’d better wear it at home. Additionally, anything sparkly or too loud should be kept at bay
Men’s workwear guide
What to wear
The basics are always the best. Keep up your professional vibe with suits or jackets made in heavier fabric. Otherwise, shed off that suit and go for a sweater topped with a vest, sport coat or a tweed jacket instead. Try the combination of a collared shirt, a lightweight sweater and jacket for a simple yet perfect professional look. A pair of leather gloves and scarf works well with a woolen overcoat. Air your dress with the traditional dress shoes or shoe boots for a comfortably formal vibe.
What not to wear
Fleeces, pullovers and sweatshirts are a strict no. Also, while loafers might look good with your dress, avoid wearing them to work. They’ll work well for an office party though. Flip-flops, again, are not an ideal choice of footwear for work. Additionally, even if your office allows flexible casual wear, avoid wearing sweatshirts and track pants.
Anyone who thinks the workplace dress code is getting ambiguous is fairly right. Indian men and women desperately need some workable guidelines to develop their own fashion statement at work. While many still follow traditional formal dress code, there are others who don’t mind experimenting with their attire. In order to make sure that you build a passable fashion, assess the nature of your profession and observe what your senior managers are wearing to get a substantial clue. This will help you plan your winter workwear wardrobe better.
