There’s AI images everywhere perpetuating the myth of what the “perfect” woman should look like. Spoiler alert, she doesn’t exist! Most women like you and me just want to look and feel their best whether at work, at home or play. And for many of my executive clients who work both in the office and from home, the age-old question comes up, what do I wear to work?
It’s something that’s discussed often in personal branding masterclasses and articles alike. And honestly? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends.
The idea of “smart business casual” isn’t new. Many workplaces have embraced the “dress for your day” policy, giving people a bit more flexibility. Some love that freedom. Others feel a little lost or unsure especially when leadership or client-facing roles are involved.
Then there are organisations with a uniform, which takes the guesswork out of daily dressing and ensures everyone reflects a cohesive professional brand image.
But for the rest of us? There’s an unspoken dress code in most business environments: look polished, professional, and appropriate for your role and setting. That doesn't mean boring or old-school, but it does mean being intentional.
I’ve heard both ends of the opinion scale. One person told me, “If someone looks like they couldn’t care less about their appearance, how much care will they take with my work?” On the other hand, another said, “I work better in casual clothes – nothing professional is as comfortable.”
There’s merit to both perspectives. The way you dress should work for your role, your setting, and your personal brand. In tropical Queensland, for example, you’d dress very differently than for a client meeting in inner-city Melbourne. It’s contextual, and it’s personal.
Your personal brand is always on show. How do you want to be perceived? Do you want to be seen as relatable and modern, or as refined and commanding? Both are valid. So how do you approach it and come up with a style reflective of your personality and get the right balance of personal brand and professional brand?
Here’s a couple of ideas.
Casual Power
When a meeting invite says “casual,” that doesn’t mean you should dial it down to weekend wear especially if you’re leading the conversation or pitching for new business. My go-to? Smart trousers, a top with structure, a blazer, flat shoes or boots, and maybe a bold accessory to elevate the look. Men can opt for tailored pants, an open-collar shirt and optional jacket.
I once had an EA ask why I didn’t wear jeans like everyone else. While I love jeans, I chose not to wear them at work because I wanted to set the tone as a senior leader – business casual, with polish and personality.
Creative Casual
Working in a creative or technology space? You’ll likely be surrounded by ultra-casual looks but that doesn’t mean you should ditch all professionalism. Hoodies and T-shirts may be everywhere, but they’re not mandatory. Unless of course you are a billionaire!
Even in the most casual cultures, senior leaders and founders tend to “up the ante” when meeting with investors or partners. You can still play with colour, pattern and interesting textures just keep your outfit intentional and put together.
Corporate Chic
The ultra-formal look is mostly behind us. Pinstripes, pantyhose and three-piece suits included. But that doesn’t mean blending into a sea of sameness with dull corporate basics. Now more than ever, particularly if you’ve stepped out of corporate into your own business or freelance work, your personal brand matters.
It’s one way to stand out and be remembered through colour, clean lines, great tailoring and a dash of your own flair.
As I often say, you’re a walking, talking business card for your brand. What message are you sending through your image?
Whether your work style leans more casual or corporate, you can still look confident, current and completely like you. And if you’re ready to refine that presence, I’m here to help. I work with ambitious, professionals who want to elevate their image and lead with style.
Learn more about my Stylish Business Woman™ program and personal brand approach when you sign up for my free eBook, The Secret to Your Personal Brand Revolution. Get Your Free eBook Now!
Sue Currie is an image entrepreneur who guides and empowers business leaders and entrepreneurs to have “Spotlight Confidence”. She is passionate about helping professionals elevate their personal and professional brand through her speaking, coaching and training programs on Self Brand, Style and Speaking Skills, providing a multi-faceted approach to gain high transformation for her clients.
