What Not to Wear…To Work

August 21, 2009 by blackgirlgrown
Filed under work

Compliments of Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and author of The Protocol Post, under absolutely NO circumstances should you wear the following items to work:

Flip-flops: They look too casual, are too loud when you walk and may pose safety risks for companies. Besides, flip flops don’t look appropriate with suit pants or a nice skirt.

blackgirlgrown’s two cents: Remember those student athletes at the White House wearing flip-flops? Show some respect.

Sequins: They are more appropriate for a night out with friends or at a party. Try not to mix your personal wardrobe with your professional wardrobe when it comes to fashion.

blackgirlgrown’stwo cents: I’ve seen it! And you’re not quite sure if the offending employee is just coming in from a late night or dressing way too early for an afterwork party.

Too-tight trousers: They are usually unflattering or can be overtly sexy. It’s more important that you emphasize your skills and abilities rather than your curvaceous figure.

blackgirlgrown’s two cents: Ladies, we’ve all been there. You gain a couple of pounds and all of a sudden you’ve got booty pants.

Crocs:Unless you are a nurse or gardener, these shoes are overly casual and send a message that you are too relaxed to do your job well. Even though ballerina-inspired Crocs are trendy at the moment, they should be avoided in a professional environment.

blackgirlgrown’stwo cents: Crocs should be banned overall.

Miniskirts: Just like your school days, your skirt length should not be higher than two inches above the knee.

blackgirlgrown’s two cents: Just say no, especially if you’re over thirty. It doesn’t make you look younger, just desperate.

Cleavage: Studies show that if you show too much cleavage, people will not take you seriously. You’ll want others to focus on your eyes and what you are saying. Save the cleavage bearing blouses for night clubbing.

blackgirlgrown’s two cents: Not a good look.

Leggings: If you’re one of the few people still wearing leggings to the office please be advised that they lack the polish and professionalism of a standard trouser. Leggings can also be unflattering for certain figures and/or they make you appear as if you are going to the gym.