Professional Attire

Your attire plays a big role in professional networking, interviews, career fairs, and most work environments.
How you dress depends on factors like the organization, industry, company culture, and your own culture. When in doubt, err on the side of dressing more professionally.

General Guidelines

Clothes

• Tailored or fit well
• In good condition, wrinkle-free, and lint-free

Shoes

• Neat and clean
• Dress shoes in good condition

Accessories

• Belts should match your shoes
• Jewelry should be simple and moderate

Hair and Makeup

• Well-groomed hair
• Natural-style nails and makeup

Fragrance, Piercings, Tattoos

• Avoid strong fragrances (stick to deodorant)
• Piercings and tattoos should align with company culture

Business Professional Attire

Add to the general guidelines:

Clothing

• Solid, dark, or neutral colors
• Light colors for shirts/blouses underneath
• Matching suit jacket and pants/skirt
• Avoid stripes, bright prints, or bold colors

Shoes

• Closed-toe heels or dress shoes

Personal Items

• Keep essentials only
• Turn off and stow phones
• Use a portfolio, professional bag, or simple purse

Check out our Pinterest board for business professional inspiration.

Business Casual Attire

Clothing

• Pants/slacks, dresses, and skirts
• Blazers and cardigans
• No jeans, shorts, sundresses, or athletic wear
• Skirts and dresses should be knee-length when standing

Shoes

• Closed-toe shoes, flats, or boots
• Comfortable shoes if walking is required

Check out our Pinterest board for inspiration for business casual inspiration.

Things to Avoid

• Clothing: Shorts, athletic wear, tight/revealing clothing, bright colors, wild patterns
• Accessories: Large jewelry, hats, sunglasses
• Shoes: Sandals, stilettos (keep heels under 3″)
• Other: Dirty or wrinkled clothes, heavy fragrances, graphic shirts

Professional Attire on a Budget

• Borrow items from friends or family
• Shop at thrift stores or clearance sales
• Access resources like the Humanix Career Clothing Bank
• Attend the JCPenney SUIT UP Event (EWU partnership for discounted career wear). Check Handshake for details in the winter quarter.