The Reality of Our 9-5
The typical workweek for many of us consists of a standard 9-5 schedule, Monday through Friday. While this is a widespread practice, it can’t be denied that work takes up a substantial portion of our lives. The time spent at our job, be it in an office, on a shop floor, or in any other workplace, adds up to countless hours dedicated to work.
So, it’s important to think about how we can make the most of it. This can involve seeking joy in our job and daily routine. However, we don’t necessarily need to think so big! Small modifications can make a huge difference too. For instance, making thoughtful selections regarding office clothes can contribute significantly to an improved work experience.
How Color Can Influence Your Work Life
The colours you wear to work can actually have an impact on your work life. Colour science is a field that explores the psychological effects of colour on human behaviour. It states that different colours can evoke different emotions and moods, and this can influence the way you interact with others, your level of creativity and even your productivity. If you’re feeling a bit down or unmotivated, try adding a pop of orange or peach to brighten things up.
Vera Neumann, the inventor of Vera Scarves applied this theory as well and introduced her silk scarves with bold, vibrant colours and unique designs right after the Second World War. This was a departure from the muted tones that were commonly favoured at the time. The scarves with their eye-catching hues were well received by consumers and are a testament to the enduring appeal of bold, playful fashion.
3 Things to Look Out For When Dressing For Work
1. The Fine Line Between Smart and Casual
Although this article is all about embracing a new, more liberated office clothing habit, this doesn’t mean that dressing overly casually for work is encouraged (unless it’s encouraged in your workplace). The following tips will help you maintain a professional & respectful look, which is crucial for creating a positive work environment. Remember, looking put together and showing care and thought to your appearance at work says a lot about how you feel about your job and the company you work for.
- Purple promotes luxury and sophistication. Step away from the usual black & navy and choose a plum purple dress or aubergine purple blouse for a more casual, but still smart look at work.
- Avoid going above knee-length with your dresses and skirts.
- Avoid neon bright colours as this can cause distraction not only to you but your environment as well.
- Opt for dresses with modest necklines and sleeves.
- Avoid spaghetti straps on your tops.
2. Choose Clothes That Boost Your Confidence
It’s extremely important that women feel confident in their work clothes. Feeling good about what you’re wearing can have a big impact on your overall self-presentation and productivity. So, next time you’re picking out an outfit for the office, make sure it’s something that you feel amazing in. Here are a few tips you can follow:
- Red is a bold and energetic colour that’s associated with confidence and assertiveness. But if you opt for a less bold shade, deep orange is a great alternative as it is associated with optimism and excitement.
- Blue is often considered the colour of stability, calmness, and confidence. This is why blue is a popular colour in business and corporate settings, as it conveys a professional and dependable image. You may opt to accessorize with a sky-blue scarf or jewellery to complete your look.
- Wearing heels at work can boost confidence for some people. High heels are associated with power and elegance. However, note that this is a personal choice. Some women may find high heels uncomfortable and more comfortable shoes empowering.
3. Comfort, Comfort, Comfort!
When selecting work clothes, comfort should be a key consideration. Uncomfortable clothing can prove to be a significant distraction and keep you from remaining focused and productive. To achieve this there are several features you can look out for when purchasing your next work garment.
- Opt for stretchy materials. Look out for the fabric composition of your garment. Elastane is a good material to have. It provides flexibility as well as durability to your clothes. It can be paired with woven materials or even knit fabric, like a jersey.
- Breathable materials are key in an office environment. Remember, you often cannot control air conditioning as you would at home, so it’s useful to wear materials that can cool you in warm weather and insulate during cold winters. Natural fabrics will do a great job at this!
It’s important to keep in mind that color psychology is not an exact science and individual preferences and experiences will vary. Ultimately, the colour that makes you feel most confident, satisfied and empowered is the one that is right for you.
