What Not to Wear to Work

last updated 14 August 2019

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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:

Everlane

The GoWeave Crop Trousers

Available in sizes 00 to 14.

Anine Bing

Madeline Blazer

Available in sizes XS to L.

Steven

Agent Slingback Pumps

Marina Rinaldi

Stretch Sleeveless Dress

Available in sizes 14 to 22W.

J.Crew

Shipwreck Striped Linen Midi Skirt

Aella

Kick Flare Pants

Available in sizes 0 to 14.

Equipment

Slim Signature Polka-Dot Washed-Silk Shirt

Available in sizes XS to M.

Saloni

Mae Stretch-Cotton Poplin Wrap Dress

Available in UK sizes 4 to 16.

Goldsign + The A Jeans

Goldsign

The A Jeans

Available in sizes 23 to 32.

AlexaChung

Heart-Appliquéd PVC Chesterfield Coat

Available in UK sizes 6 to 14.

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

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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 arts. 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.