Ask Fashion Girl

Dear LJen,

Dressing casually at work can mean different things to different employers, so its always good to ask your supervisor right off to define their interpretation of "casual". Noticing how other people at your workplace dress can help you get a better idea of the types of clothing that are best to wear.

Jeans are usually ok in places where you don't deal with the public too much, or if you work in a store that specializes in casual wear like a sporting goods store or surf shop. But if you work in a more upscale environment like a department store, jeans will probably be considered too casual. Your best bet is to go with comfortable basics. Simple dresses with casual or trendy shoes, khakis or drawstring rayon pants with sweaters or button-down shirts, and long skirts with fitted cotton t-shirts in different colors or patterns are a few suggestions for casual wear.

An important thing to take into consideration is how you want to present yourself to others at work. Many people judge your professionalism by how you dress. How far do you see yourself going in this company? For example, if you have your eye on a managerial position, then now is the time to set the stage by acting and dressing like a manager would. Remember, clothes can typecast you!

The best thing about being able to wear casual clothing at work is that it gives you a wide range of freedom to express your personal style. You can go all-out one day and wear a sharp suit jacket and skirt combo, and then go with a trendy cotton top and khakis the next day. You can also combine casual pieces with dressy accessories to create a great overall look.

The possibilities are endless!