When it comes to making a good impression in the office, getting your outfit right is key. Studies have shown that attractive people are hired quickly, always bag that promotion and tend to earn more than their less attractive coworkers. Emirates Woman reveals how to use your style to your advantage.
Are you about to reach for those comfy black trousers and off-white shirt? It may be time to think again, as that old saying “dress for the job you want, not the one you’ve got” rings true. It’s been proven that well-dressed workers tend to bring in more money for their companies, therefore are seen as valuable assets. And it doesn’t stop there – according to new research conducted by Debenhams, you’re more likely to earn brownie points if you share the same style as your boss.
It’s not just your wardrobe that matters, your hair colour can also make an impact. A 2010 study discovered that blonde bombshells are raking in as much as seven per cent more than their darker haired colleagues. We guess that’s why blondes are having more fun – they’re earning more!
We spoke to inspirational speaker and health and wellness coach Helga Bergsteinsdóttir for insight on how to nail that promotion.
Olivia Palermo makes a statement in floral trousers. 1. Jacket Dhs1,778 J Crew 2. T-shirt Dhs1,017 Markus Lupfer 3. Top Dhs419 Karl Lagerfeld 4. Handbag Dhs3,065 Sophie Hulme 5. Shoes Dhs1,856 Jimmy Choo 6. Jacket Dhs2,005 Helmut Lang 7. Shoes Dhs2,676 Tamara Mellon 8. Trousers Dhs2,484 Nina Ricci 9. Trousers Dhs2,981 Erdem 10. trousers Dhs820 Ted Baker 11. Trousers Dhs1,125 Tory Burch
Helga says: “Prints are artistic. They give the impression you’re fun, interesting and light-hearted. They also show you have a great sense of humour as they’re not aggressive, nor soft. A girl who wears prints looks confident and independent. However, if you’re in finance then think twice about wearing print. Bosses may not take you as seriously.”
Laura Bailey goes preppy in pastels, 1. Earrings POA Dior 2. Necklace Dhs2,100 Carolina Herrera 3. Handbag Dhs1,280 Michael by Michael Kors 4. Skirt Dhs4,260 Mary Katrantzou 5. Skirt Dhs9,294 Emilia Wickstead 6. sweater Dhs3,272 nina ricci 7. Shoes 3,716 Chloé Skirt Dhs9,294 Emilia Wickstead 8. Earrings Dhs2,196 Sharouk 9. Shirt Dhs1,125 T by Alexander Wang 10. Shoes Dhs2,142 Gianvito Rossi
Helga says: “Pastel hues are calming, soft and don’t draw too much attention – the opposite effect of red. They show honesty, vulnerability and that you could be a good person at heart. Similarly white is simple and pure, you are likely to be trusted more if you wear white. By wearing a white blouse with a pale pink skirt you will appear trustworthy and approachable.”
Workaholic Victoria Beckham means business wearing her own designs. 1. Necklace Dhs454 J Crew 2. Jacket Dhs2,485 Derek Lam 3.Skirt Dhs1,568 DKNY 4. Shirt Dhs1,018 Theory 5.Willow handbag Dhs10,404 Mulberry 6.Shirt Dhs2,800 Nina Ricci 7. Shoes Dhs2,767 Alexander McQueen 8. Shoes Dhs2,514 Gianvito Rossi 9. Handbag Dhs1,830 Marc by Marc Jacobs 10. Boots Dhs6,240 Saint Laurent
Helga says: “Black conveys feelings of mystery and seriousness. It is also considered elegant and timeless. The classic tone can make you appear thinner too. People who wear black want to climb to the top of the career ladder. If you want to be treated seriously, the typical black suit with a splash of green or blue works well while a daring soft leather skirt can be chic choice for the office. Just ensure it’s not too short!”
Cameron Diaz hails a cab to work wearing red 1. Dress Dhs4,200 Donna Karan 2. Dress Dhs2,100 Paul & Joe 3. Dress Dhs820 Ted Baker 4. Earrings Dhs210 Marc by Marc Jacobs 5. Handbag styles start from Dhs46,130 Ethan K 6. Shoes Dhs2,589 Nicholas Kirkwood 7. Shoes Dhs2,400 Charlotte Olympia 8. Handbag Dhs3,990 Carolina Herrera
Helga says: “Red is a bold colour and will make a statement, so use it in the right context as it will draw attention to yourself. Wear it where there’s romance, excitement and money to be discussed as it makes people’s hearts beat faster. But beware: don’t wear anything red that’s too short or tight in the workplace as it gives off the wrong impression.”
Images: Getty and supplied
