How to Avoid Too-Sexy Work Outfits
When Does Classy Become Trashy? Appropriate Dress for the Office
A woman doesn't have to give up her natural sex appeal when dressing for work. Find the balance between office appropriate and know when the line is crossed.
There is nothing wrong with feeling sexy and dressing to accentuate your most flattering attributes, but know where the line is between career woman and working girl.
Cleavage: Sexy or Scary?
How much cleavage is too much? In your average, every day working environment if you have to question an outfit it's probably showing too much skin. If your wardrobe is designed to flaunt your ample bust line, consider some of these alternatives to give a more subtle appearance.
- Wear a camisole underneath a low-cut garment. A hint of lace is ultra-feminine.
- Add a cardigan or overshirt to your ensemble. Being able to button up in a hurry when faced with a corporate executive will encourage eye contact.
- Layer your clothing. A layered look can detract from large breasts while still emphasizing an attractive figure.
A good general rule of thumb is that two or three inches of cleavage are the absolute most that should be displayed during the day time. Avoid blouses that have the potential to expose a bra strap, or the edge of your undergarments. There is a definitive line between classy and trashy.
Skirts: How Short Can They Be?
A tea-length skirt is so old-fashioned, but is it safe to go much shorter? If you work in an office with a young, contemporary feel, it's okay to go above the knee. Avoid styles shorter than an inch above the knee, and whenever possible, longer is better. If you can't pass up an adorable baby-doll style dress, incorporate leggings or opaque stockings for an all-round more professional look.
You should be able to comfortably sit without having to fuss about potentially showing more than you care to, and bending to retrieve a lost item shouldn't wrack you with fear. A good rule of thumb: if you'd be comfortable wearing the skirt to church, or in front of your mom, you're probably okay at work. Styles that have a young feel, while still being work appropriate include:
- Pencil style skirts with wide belts
- Floor length skirts with a slit no higher than the knee
- Simple A-line skirts in bright colors
Heels:Just How High Can You Go?
As tempting as those sky-high stilettos may be, take a good long look at them before wearing them to the office. If the retailer you purchased them from also sells anything that resembles a French maid costume, they're probably questionable. Four inches should be the absolute highest for most work scenarios. Avoid any designs that incorporate clear acrylic, lace or feathers. Standard pumps and kitten heels are the safest bet, but if you simply must go for height, seek classic designs rather that sultry looks.
Perfume: Too Much is Offensive
A woman is defined by her scent, and every lady should have at least one designer fragrance she can't live without. Unfortunately, you can't always tell how much you're wearing. No matter how in love with your scent you are, exercise caution when applying fragrance, particularly in warm months, as heat enhances aromas making them more potent. A good rule of thumb: Spray two or three healthy squirts in front of you, and then walk into the cloud. If you prefer more scent than the average woman, apply a little dab to pulse points. A smell that brings you to raptures may conjure a negative memory in a co-worker, so always consider other people's feelings.
You should always dress for your next job. In a world based on visual aesthetics it's important to sell yourself as a total package. It isn't necessary to sacrifice sex appeal or femininity but it is important to incorporate your soft, sexy look into work appropriate outfits. For more career wear tips check out Essential Accessories for Career Women and Slimming Makeup Tips.
