Video:5 Professional Looks for Work

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Transcript:5 Professional Looks for Work

Hi, I'm Kaytie Sproul here for About.com, and today I'm going to show you how to put together five professional looks for work.

While some apparel choices can help you climb the corporate ladder, others are likely to kill your career. Before your next shopping spree, consider these fail-proof options for the office.

Suits Are Always a Professional Look for Work

Whether your work environment dictates a formal dress code or business casual, nothing says success more than a business suit. A matching jacket and slacks or jacket and skirt, complemented by closed-toed heels, is a great way to appear both polished and professional.

Slacks and button-down blouses are yet another professional look for the office and can be a versatile everyday option. Adding an argyle sweater vest to this ensemble will enhance your appearance while adding a layer of warmth during colder months. Beyond linen and cotton, tweed slacks are also a great look for any office and add a classic touch to an otherwise modern standard.

Skirts and Dresses Can Be Professional Looks for Work

Knee-length skirts are always an ideal option for the office and can be worn with any number of blouses or sweaters that have a professional appeal. Be sure to wear pantyhose or tights with your skirts, and stick with fabrics that are opaque, avoiding anything that's clingy or tight.

If you're looking for the ease of a one-piece outfit for the office, be sure to make a stop at the dress rack of your favorite clothing store. You'll want to choose a style that's at least knee-length with an appropriate neckline, as well as one that doesn't have too bold a pattern, like this one seen on About.com's Women's Fashion site. For a more formal appearance, pair your dress with a jacket or cardigan.

Khakis Are a Business Casual Look for Work

Ideal for the business casual office, khakis are perfect for those who desire a light and comfortable, yet professional, attire option. You'll want to make sure that they're wrinkle-free and paired with an interesting blouse. A ruffled blouse in a floral print, for instance, can add just the right amount of color, while a complimentary cardigan rounds off this professional ensemble.

Keep Colors and Accessories Simple for a Professional Look for Work

Just a tip: While your clothing speaks volumes in the office, don't forget that your accessories and color-schemes can have an impact as well. Over-accessorizing or wearing extremely bright colors and busy patterns can leave the wrong impression on your superiors.

Keep it simple when wearing jewelry in a professional setting, and opt for office-appropriate colors like black, gray, navy blue, and ivory.

A professional appearance in the office is one of the first steps to making the right impression. With a few basic wardrobe items, your clothing can work in your favor as you build a solid reputation within your organization.

Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the web at About.com.