THE 10 COMMANDMENTS OF POWER DRESSING

Indian work spaces are a confusing place. The Indian Corporate Employees Dress code for women is broadly defined into 3 categories- 1) Indianwear = Formal wear 2) Formal trousers and shirts from mass produced brands 3) Luxury brands overdose.

Of course the scenario is quickly changing. As the popularity of style blogs, social media and brand awareness elevates, so do the fashion sensibilities of the average Indian consumer. The influx of information is quite confusing. You don't want to imitate the style of a Parisienne  Blogger in a conservative Indian office. Striking the right balance is of utmost importance. While we can't help you develop your personal style in one blog post, we can stop you from making major faux-pas by following the 10 commandments of Power Dressing. Here's your guide to dress for the job you want, not the one you have.

THOUGH SHALT NOT BE SLOPPY

Your work place is not a fashion parade. Nor is it your living room. Be groomed at all times, even if you can't dress to impress. Regular haircuts, clean skin and nails, groomed eyebrows and ironed clothes are a necessity. This rule also includes no gym wear of any kind and NO FLIP FLOPS!

THOU SHALT BE APPROPRIATE 

It's best to save your crop tops, mini skirts and high heels for the weekend. Dress for the occasion, not like you're about to hit the clubs. This rule also includes wearing sneakers or shorts to the office. 

THOU SHALT INVEST IN A WELL-FITTING SUIT

Sometimes, Barney Stinson is right. A lot of people under-estimate the value of a suit. Doesn't matter what your age is, the minute you get a real job is the minute you need to buy a good suit. If you're really strapped for cash, a blazer with matching pants will do until you can afford the real deal.  

THOU SHALT PICK THE RIGHT SHOES

You know exactly where your feet are going to be all day. If you're going to be wading in knee-deep water, if you have to run to catch a bus, if your job involves being on your feet or if your workplace has a super strict dress code, be smart in picking the right pair of shoes. There is no shame in keeping a comfy pair in your desk or car. You don't need to get spondylitis in the name of fashion.

THOU SHALT WEAR TASTEFUL MAKE-UP

There's no need to look like you work in a circus. There's no need to look like you're fighting a life-threatening disease either. Remember the 3 pillars of work make up - Compact, Lip Balm and Mascara. Keep them in your bag and refresh every 3 to 4 hours.

THOU SHALT EMBRACE BOTH INDIAN AND INTERNATIONAL STYLES

Don't forget your roots and become a fashion victim. We have a diverse range of work appropriate yet comfy clothing to mix it up. Wear cotton churidar sets on a hot summer day or a saree in formal meetings. It's important to set the correct balance so wear what you're comfortable in.

THOU SHALT ROTATE

Doesn't matter what your salary package is, you have to learn to rotate your wardrobe without making it seem like you are. Wore your favorite Denim shirt last Friday? Wear it over a Maxi Dress as a jacket. There are a ton of helpful apps that can make this iconic scene from Clueless, part of your daily routine.

THOU SHALT NOT OVER ACCESSORIZE

Accessories are the best way to inject your personality into any outfit. Don't get carried away. As Coco Chanel said, look into the mirror before leaving the house and remove one accessory. Tasteful metallic chains, stud earrings and elegant bracelets work well, but if you want to wear a statement piece, compliment it by keeping it minimal for the rest.

THOU SHALT ACT YOUR AGE

This is a rule that should be followed inside the office at all times. We're all for wearing whatever makes you happy, life begins at 40 right? However, it's important to keep it professional in the workplace, especially since most companies have strict dress codes. Avoid pairing too many brights, over accessorizing, mini skirts and plunging necklines. 

THOU SHALT NOT SHY AWAY FROM BEING YOURSELF

All these commandments are just guidelines that make it easier to dress for work. Don't just be a clotheshorse. Wear what you love as long as you own it. Clothes are an outlet for self expression and as long as you know how you want to be perceived, you wear whatever you fancy!

You can shop the best of work and leisure wear on www.majorbrands.in!

If you have any work wear woes that you want us to address, comment below! You can also message us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.