How to Dress to Impress:A Guide to Professional
Success
Christina BourgeoisDirector, Undergraduate Professional Communication
ProgramSchool of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Georgia Institute of Technology
WECE Workshop SeriesSeptember 8, 2011
Definition of pro·fes·sion·al
• a : of, relating to, or characteristic of a profession
• b : engaged in one of the learned professions
• c : characterized by or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession; exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace
What’s Not Professional
A Head-to-Toe Look at What Not to Wear
Too Much Make-up
Extreme Hair: Style and Color Matter
Too long
Highlights should look natural
Rainbow brite is never a good idea
Too Much Frangrance
Avoid heavy perfumes and body odor
Over Accessorizing
Ill-Fitting Clothes
Tattoos and Body Piercings
Clothing That is Too Revealing
Workout Gear and Beach Wear
Fine for “Going Out” NOT for Going to Work
Too short
Denim is too casual
Too revealing
Too high
What IS Professional
Attire?
Women’s Business Formal • Suit (pants or skirt)
o Fitted top and bottomo Dark colors (navy blue/black/gray)
• Shoeso Closed-toeo Polished, well-maintained
• Hygeineo Always wear deodoranto Maintain fresh breatho Nails should be trimmed; polish should be clear or
natural tone
What Business Formal Looks Like
Business Casual• Skirts and Dresses
o No shorter than 2” above the kneeo Must be able to sit comfortably in publico Nothing tight, mid-thigh
• Slacks and Pantso Cotton, linen, or blendso No shorts, jeans, athletic wear
• Shirts, Tops, Blouses, and Jacketso Sweaters, turtlenecks, sweater setso No sleeveless, midriff, halter, or graphic t-shirts
• Shoeso Flats, dress heelso No flip flops, sandals, open-toe, or strappy heels
What Business Casual Looks Like
Low heeled shoes
Conservative, muted make up
Conservative shirts/tops
What Professional Looks Like
Examples of Professional Attire
Professional Hairstyles
Pop QuizAre these women dressed professionally?
Sleeveless
Too long
Too low
Too short
Too high
Questions?