Starting a new job comes with excitement … and a bit of uncertainty. One of the most common questions new employees face is: What is the workplace dress code? Whether you’re stepping into a bustling office or working remotely, or a combination of both, including your comfy high-tech home workspace, understanding the spoken and unspoken dress code in the office is key to making a confident and positive impression throughout.

Why Workplace Dress Code Matters

How you dress at work is about communicating your professionalism, respect for company culture, and even your ambitions. In fact, they say “Dress for the job you want, not for the job you have.” Research in fashion psychology, especially by Dr. Dawnn Karen, the pioneer of the Fashion Psychology Field® and author of Dress Your Best Life, shows that our clothing choices can influence not only how others perceive us, but also how we feel and perform.

Decoding the Dress Code in the Office

Even before your first job interview, how can you hit the sweet spot so you already feel like a part of the company? Later, when you join the company, the official dress code may be outlined in the employee handbook or discussed during onboarding; however, even then, the real “rules” are often unspoken. Here’s how you can crack the code:

1. Observe and Research

Take a cue from Alex, a job-seeker who had an important interview at a major tech firm. The day before, Alex sat at a café across from the office, discreetly watching employees as they left for the day. He noticed most wore smart jeans, button-down shirts, and stylish sneakers—a clear sign of a business casual dress code. The next day, Alex dressed similarly, blending right in and showing he understood the company culture.

Tip: If you can’t observe in person, check the company’s social media, LinkedIn profiles, or ask your recruiter for guidance.

2. Ask Thoughtful Questions

Asking questions not only shows your willingness to fit in but also helps you avoid any awkward missteps. It’s a simple way to demonstrate professionalism and eagerness to respect the company culture from day one.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask your manager or HR about the dress code at a workplace. Try, “Could you share a bit about what people typically wear here?” or “Is there a business casual dress code or something more formal?”

3. Start Slightly More Formal

Dressing a bit more formally shows respect for the company and signals that you take your role seriously. Once you’ve settled in and better understand the office vibe, you can adjust your wardrobe to fit in comfortably without compromising professionalism.

Tip: If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to dress a notch above what you think is expected. It’s easier to relax your style later than to recover from being underdressed.

Business Casual Dress Code: The Modern Standard

Many offices today embrace a business casual dress code. This usually means:

• Collared shirts or blouses
• Dress pants, chinos, or smart jeans
• Closed-toe shoes or clean sneakers
• Blazers or cardigans (optional)

Tip: Avoid overly casual items like flip-flops, graphic tees, or ripped jeans unless you see leaders wearing them. However, even then, see if it aligns with how you want to be seen and perceived.

Remote Work Dress Code: Looking Sharp on Screen

With remote work on the rise, team calls and team-building activities being a normal part of the day, and you try to build up your visibility via screen, you might wonder: Does dress code matter when working from home? The answer is yes, especially for video calls. Here’s why:

• Dressing up, even a little, can boost your confidence and productivity.
• Others will perceive you as more professional and engaged.

Remote Dress Code Tips:

• Choose solid, camera-friendly colors.
• Keep a blazer or smart sweater handy for meetings.
• Avoid pajamas or overly casual attire during work hours.

Why Your Look Matters

Dr. Dawnn Karen’s research highlights that clothing is a powerful tool for self-expression and success. When you align your outfit with your personal brand and the workplace dress code, you send a message: “I belong here, and I’m ready to contribute.”

Dressing for the office is a balance between the workplace culture and atmosphere and your personal brand and values. By taking into account both of these factors, you can make sure that your clothing choices reflect your professional goals and ambitions. Understanding the workplace dress code—and the unspoken rules—helps you feel confident and make a great impression, whether you’re in the office or dialing in from home. Observe, ask, and dress with intention. Remember, how you present yourself is the first step in building your personal brand at work. And remember to always aim to project a professional image that reflects your ambitions and goals.