Starting a new job is an exciting milestone, often accompanied by the practical question of what to wear for orientation. This initial day is your first opportunity to present a professional image and integrate into the company culture. The clothes you choose are a form of non-verbal communication, helping to set the tone for your new role. This guide will help you understand how to approach this first step with confidence, ensuring your outfit aligns with your new workplace.
How to Determine the Company Dress Code
Your first step in deciding what to wear is to investigate the company’s dress code. New hire paperwork or the employee handbook will often state the clothing policy. These documents are typically provided before your start date, so review them carefully for any guidelines.
If written guidance isn’t available, don’t hesitate to reach out to your primary contact, whether it’s the HR manager or your recruiter. A simple email or phone call asking about the typical dress code for orientation and for the office is perfectly acceptable. This shows foresight and a desire to align with the company’s standards from day one.
Observing the work environment can also offer valuable clues. If you had an in-person interview, recall what your interviewers and other employees were wearing. The company’s website or professional social media pages can be another resource. Look at photos from team events or daily office life to get a visual sense of the common attire.
Understanding Common Dress Code Levels
Business Professional
This is the most formal level of workplace attire. For men, it means a full suit in a conservative color like navy, black, or gray, paired with a dress shirt, a tie, and dress shoes. For women, business professional can be a pantsuit or a skirt suit, a dress with a jacket, and closed-toe heels or flats. This style is common in fields like law, finance, and executive management.
Business Casual
Business casual is a step down from the formality of a full suit but remains professional. Men might wear dress slacks or khakis with a collared shirt, such as a polo or a button-down. Women can opt for dress pants or a skirt with a blouse, sweater, or a casual dress. While a tie is not usually required for men, a blazer or sport coat can elevate the look.
Smart Casual
Smart casual bridges the gap between business casual and casual wear. It allows for more personality while maintaining a clean, professional appearance. This could mean dark-wash jeans without any rips or distressing, paired with a stylish top or a blazer. For both men and women, clean, fashionable sneakers, loafers, or boots can be appropriate, suitable for many tech companies and creative agencies.
Casual
A casual dress code offers the most flexibility, but it doesn’t mean wearing just anything. While jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are often acceptable, they should be free of any offensive graphics. This dress code is common in more relaxed office environments, startups, or on designated “casual Fridays.”
General Outfit Guidelines When Unsure
When you’re unable to determine the specific dress code, a safe approach is to dress a level more formally than you think is required. A good rule of thumb is to aim for an outfit that is slightly less formal than what you wore to your interview. It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than to be underdressed on your first day.
For a universally safe option, consider dark-colored trousers or a knee-length skirt paired with a conservative blouse or a button-down shirt. This combination is a staple of business casual attire and can be easily adjusted. Adding a blazer or a cardigan can make the outfit more formal, while removing it can create a more relaxed look.
Neutral colors are your best friend in situations of uncertainty. Black, navy, gray, and beige are classic choices that convey professionalism and are less likely to appear out of place. An outfit built around these colors will look clean and composed.
What to Avoid Wearing
Regardless of the company’s dress code, certain items are almost universally inappropriate for a professional setting. Clothing that is ripped, frayed, or stained should always be avoided. Even in a casual environment, your clothes should be in good condition.
Steer clear of any clothing with large, distracting logos or potentially offensive graphics or text. Your first day is about integrating into a team, and attire that is overly loud or controversial can be a distraction.
Certain types of footwear are not suitable for an orientation. This includes flip-flops, athletic sneakers (unless part of a very casual dress code), and overly casual sandals. Additionally, be mindful of fragrances; avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes, as some colleagues may have allergies or sensitivities. A light application should not be overpowering.
Beyond the Clothes: Grooming and Accessories
Your overall presentation goes beyond your choice of outfit. Ensuring your clothes are clean and neatly pressed is a fundamental step. Wrinkled or dirty clothes can undermine an otherwise professional look, so take the time to iron your chosen garments and check for any stains.
Personal grooming is another important aspect of your professional appearance. Arrive with neat, clean hair and tidy nails.
Accessories should be simple and functional. Opt for a professional bag that can hold your essentials, such as a notebook and any required documents. Keep jewelry minimal and unobtrusive. A classic watch is a good choice, while flashy or noisy bracelets can be distracting.