Transitioning careers is a big change in your life. From the nature of your work to your new environment, there will be numerous modifications to the way you’re accustomed to working. One of these will even affect the way you dress. This also means that you may have to change your wardrobe as you transition to your new career.

I believed starting a new career would only impact my work. However, to my surprise, I also realized that the way I would present myself would also change. For some career transitioners, the change will be almost imperceptible. For others, it will be a drastic departure from what their usual professional wardrobe.

When acclimating to a new career, there are a few wardrobe changes to consider. Here are 10 wardrobe tips you must consider when transitioning careers:

1. Ask about the dress code

One of the questions that often gets overlooked when transitioning careers is around the dress code. While some careers have pretty flexible dress codes, others are more rigid in terms of professional wardrobe. I used to work on the audit team of a very conservative insurance company, which required its female employees to wear stockings in all seasons and avoid open-toe shoes. I made the mistake of not following the rules during my first few days for the simple reason that I wasn’t aware of them.

This is why it’s crucial to ask about the dress code as you start a new career. If feasible, consider asking this question during your interview process. If not, consult with the recruiter you may be working with, or your colleagues during your first few days at work.

 

2. Consult current policies and procedures

Most organizations have policies and procedures which refer to their dress codes. Some even send frequent reminders around these. Consulting these is a safe place to begin understanding the wardrobe expectations of your new career. In the absence of these, don’t hesitate to ask your colleagues or recruiters.

 

3. Observe your environment

Your new environment will tell you a lot about the expectations and requirements of your new career. Observe how those around you dress, at all levels of the organization. Take a cue from the leadership and those in position of authority, as they may be most accurately reflecting the expected dress code.

 

4. Re-purpose your current wardrobe

The point here is not to go invest in a brand-new wardrobe that will cost you more money than you can, and should, afford. Most likely, you already have most, if not many, of the wardrobe pieces you will need to dress appropriately in your new careers.

When starting a new career, I conducted an audit of my current wardrobe at the time. By doing this, I was able to pick out core pieces such as white button-down shirts  such as this Off 5th Contrast trim Blouse and sheath dresses such as this Vince Camuto high-neck sheath dress, that I could re-use in my new career. I was also able to set aside those I may not use often or at all.

 

 

 

 

 

5. Create your own style

Adhering to a pre-defined dress code for your new career doesn’t mean letting go of your own sense of style. Instead, you can incorporate your originality into your wardrobe, while still being mindful of your new environment’s expectations.

As a self-proclaimed “fashionista”, it’s important to me to always have my own style. It could be as simple as adding colors to traditional business suits, such as this LeSuit three-button pantsuit. It could also be adding fun accessories such as this Kendra Scott Betsy Long Pendant necklace and these Lilly Pulitzer Waterside earrings.

 

6. But be practical

When switching careers, it’s important to take into account the practical aspect. This is something I had to learn the hard way, as I would painfully wobble in my high heels and at times overly sophisticated, and weather-inappropriate, work outfits.

However, I learnt over time to put comfort first, while still maintaining a professional look and allowing for my own personality to come through. What this means for me is opting for more practical shoes such as these Karl Lagerfeld Paris scarlet pumps with quilted block heels or these ALDO unbuckle heeled pumps. It was also a matter of picking breathable, comfortable fabrics like cotton, such as in these Lee Platinum Madelyn straight-leg trousers or this Draper James peony pencil skirt.

 

7. Be open to experimenting

A new career will also require you to experiment with the way you approach your professional wardrobe. Don’t hesitate to try your own looks, and wearing pieces that reflect who you truly are.

 

8. Mind your budget

As you transition careers, be mindful of your finances as well. There is no need to over-spend and put yourself in a financial bind simply to “look the part”. Instead, consider more frugal options such as high-end vintage or thrift stores, or lower-priced department stores. As mentioned earlier, focus on re-purposing your prior professional wardrobe as well.

 

9. Dress for the position you want

This piece of advice is as old as time; however, it still applies. As you aspire to advance in your new career, observe the way your leaders dress to inspire your own wardrobe. Yet, you should be mindful of managing egos and office politics as you do so. For instance, donning a wardrobe more expensive than that of your higher-ups may be perceived negatively. All in all, it’s a matter of striking the right balance.

 

10. Enjoy your professional wardrobe

While you may be concerned about dressing for your new career, you should also enjoy the process. Have fun with your wardrobe, enjoy the comfort and versatility of what you wear, as it will inspire to work more joyfully and on purpose.

 

 

Now your turn: How do you change your wardrobe when switching careers?

 

 

To Your Success,

The Corporate Sister.