The video was made using clothes from Bern’s LOEB department store.
Reading Time 9 Minutes
Reading Time 9 Minutes
Created on 25.11.2024
Style tips and dress codes for different working environments
What should I wear for work today? In the video, style expert Ana Haldimann shares tips on how men and women can put together outfits for different working environments and dress codes with just a few basics, and explains how anyone can get their own individual look with some simple tricks. The good news: you don’t need a lot of expensive clothes; rather a few that combine well. That’s good for your budget as well as the environment.
At a glance
- A basic wardrobe of timeless classics and pieces that can be easily combined lets you create a number of versatile looks for different work environments.
- Accessories like scarves, belts and bags set your style and bring your personal touch into the workplace.
- A small but well-organized wardrobe saves you money and helps protect the environment.
It’s really not so easy to find the right outfit for the working day. In this video, style expert Ana Haldimann shows how you can always have the right outfit for different work environments from just a basic collection of suits, blouses, shirts, t-shirts, dresses, trousers and shoes. Depending on how you mix and match your clothing and add accessories like scarves, belts and bags, you can always dress professionally with an individual touch, whether it’s casual or formal wear. The tips in the video serve purely as inspiration, of course. You know better than anyone which outfits and what look is best for your current work environment. However you fill your wardrobe, having a basic stock of essential clothing items saves you money as well as the environment.
Tip: missing something important in your wardrobe?
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FAQ – answered by Ana Haldimann
What are the most important dress codes in the working environment?
| Dress code | Suitable item of clothing (example) | For what type of event is this dress code suitable? |
|---|---|---|
| Dress code Casual |
Suitable item of clothing (example) Jeans, casual top, flat shoes or jeans, t-shirt, trainers |
For what type of event is this dress code suitable? Relaxed workdays, creative jobs, start-up culture |
| Dress code Business casual |
Suitable item of clothing (example) Trousers or skirt, blouse, closed shoes or shirt without tie, chinos or trousers, leather shoes or shoes made of leather-like material |
For what type of event is this dress code suitable? Daily office outfit in less formal companies, internal meetings |
| Dress code Smart casual |
Suitable item of clothing (example) Smart trousers or skirt, trendy blouse or top, stylish shoes or jacket, shirt or polo shirt, jeans or trousers, shoes |
For what type of event is this dress code suitable? Informal meetings with customers, relaxed company events, networking |
| Dress code Business formal |
Suitable item of clothing (example) Trouser suit or suit, blouse, dress shoes or suit (possibly with tie), leather or leather-like shoes |
For what type of event is this dress code suitable? Important meetings, presentations, business appointments with customers |
| Dress code Cocktail |
Suitable item of clothing (example) Cocktail dress, dress shoes or dark suit, shirt, dress shoes |
For what type of event is this dress code suitable? Corporate celebratory events, business dinners |
| Dress code Black tie |
Suitable item of clothing (example) Tuxedo, bow tie, black, polished shoes or evening dress, elegant evening bag and dress shoes |
For what type of event is this dress code suitable? Gala evenings, awards ceremonies, formal company celebrations |
| Dress code White tie |
Suitable item of clothing (example) Floor-length evening dress, stylish accessories or tailcoat, white bow tie, polished shoes |
For what type of event is this dress code suitable? Very formal occasions, rare, exclusive company galas |
Are dress codes important or are they freer in this day and age?
Dress codes are still important in certain situations, especially when required for a specific event. If you’re unsure what to wear, talk to a colleague who’s also invited to the same event.
What does a working-from-home outfit look like?
If you work from home, you’ll often only come into contact with your contacts through virtual meetings. You’ll only see the top half of what they’re wearing and vice versa.
What distinguishes a particularly sustainable label, and how can this be recognized?
You can find sustainable fashion items easily on the Internet or by asking for sustainable labels in clothes shops. However, being sustainable also means being more aware of your consumption habits, such as buying fewer new clothes. A well-organized wardrobe lets you put together a number of different looks. You reduce the chances of making poor purchases by making a list before going shopping. You can shop sustainably – and have some fun – by going to second-hand shops or flea markets. Anything you find here is not just environmentally friendly, but also helps give you an individual look.
What sort of clothing does someone need if they want to combine them well?
The basics! This includes timeless classics like white blouses, white shirts, suits, well-fitting jeans and cardigans. Blue chinos are also recommended for men. All you’re missing now are simple, plain-coloured pieces that go well together and complement each other.
Is there anything today that’s a no-go?
I think there is, but opinions are divided. In my opinion, transparent tops or flip flops shouldn’t be worn to work, even if there are companies with very lax dress codes.
What are the seasonal challenges when choosing the right outfit for work?
Summer is definitely the hardest challenge. You may ask yourself: how can I dress well at 30 degrees without sweating all day? A good tip: avoid synthetic materials. Cotton, wool and linen are ideal for hot weather as they are breathable materials. You’ll also sweat a lot less in leather shoes than in trainers.
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