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With office wardrobes under scrutiny and social media filled with "Get Ready with Me" videos, UK employees are debating how their outfits impact confidence and workplace perceptions. From bold colour choices to dressing for success, our survey of over 1,000 office workers dives into the challenges of nailing the perfect work look and the hidden messages our clothes send. Ready to find out what your wardrobe is really saying about you?
Dress Codes in the Workplace
We kicked things off by asking survey participants whether their workplace enforces a dress code. Only 45% said their workplace does, and among those, nearly 75% admitted they stick to it. Interestingly, 9% of respondents revealed that they've been asked to change or adjust their outfit at some point in their career.
Interestingly, our survey carried out last year on workplace dress codes found that 1 in 5 men said no when asked if they had ever been dress-coded, whereas more than 2 in 5 women said yes. These women also shared that they were asked to change and or cover up by their employer.
Work vs. Casual Style
We were curious to see how workplace attire compares to personal style, so we asked respondents if their ‘work style’ differs from what they typically wear on weekends or evenings. Over half, 59%, reported having a clear divide between their work wardrobe and casual wear, while two in five are happy to wear the same clothes both inside and outside of work.
Dressing for Success
Next, we posed the classic question: Do you think dressing for the job you want is important? An overwhelming 88% agreed that how they dress plays a role in achieving career goals.
In fact, wardrobe choices seem to carry significant weight when it comes to perceptions in the workplace. A massive 91% of respondents said they believe what they wear at work influences how they’re perceived by colleagues, whether consciously or subconsciously.
The Psychology of Colour
We also delved into the psychology behind colour choices, asking respondents if they thought the colour of their clothing affects how others see them at work. Nearly 40% believe colour plays a role, while 28% think it can sometimes make a difference. Meanwhile, 32% said they don’t see any connection between colour and perception at work.
Confidence and Clothing
When it comes to confidence, 6% of respondents admitted they don’t feel confident in what they wear to work, while nearly a quarter shared that their confidence is heavily influenced by their outfit choice on any given day.
Impact on Productivity and Mood
We also asked if people think their work attire impacts their productivity or mood. A notable 37% said they believe what they wear can directly affect how they feel and perform at work.
Perception and Treatment
Clothing doesn’t just affect how we feel—it can also influence how others treat us. Over 40% of respondents said they’ve noticed a shift in how they’re treated based on their work attire.
Professionalism and Progression
Finally, we asked respondents if they think there’s a connection between clothing choices and professionalism. A strong 73% believe dressing professionally is key to being seen as professional. When asked if dressing smartly could improve their chances of career progression, more than 70% agreed it could give them a boost.
The Social Media Takeover of Office Wear
'Get ready with me' (GRWM) videos have taken social media by storm, with influencers and everyday users offering their advice on the best outfits for all occasions, including office wear. However, there's been a fair share of mockery aimed at those who showcase their so-called "office style" despite having clearly never worked in an office themselves. In fact, the hashtag #officewear has amassed over 2 million posts on Instagram alone, proving just how much attention corporate fashion is getting online.
We decided to dig deeper and ask survey respondents if they struggle to buy clothes for work. Nearly a third admitted they find it difficult—or at least sometimes challenging—to choose the right wardrobe for the workplace.
Expert Insight on Dressing for Success
Melanie Lippman, an Image Coach for Women in Leadership, has gained thousands of views on TikTok and Instagram Reels by sharing tips on dressing for your body type and how our clothing choices send subconscious messages in the workplace.
In one particular Instagram post, Lippman outlines three colours that, according to her, could potentially derail your corporate career:
Black: Often considered a wardrobe staple, black might be your biggest crutch. According to Lippman, it's overused, overly formal, and can create barriers between you and others. There’s a reason lawyers and formal events lean into black—it’s meant to build walls.
Red: Red is powerful and can come off as hyper-aggressive. While it has its place in the workplace, it's not ideal for making friends. Lippman suggests using red when you want to assert authority or push for buy-in on your ideas.
Grey: While versatile, grey can be bland and uninspiring. It’s not the best option for establishing trust or boosting confidence. Though you can get creative by pairing it with other colours, it shouldn't be your go-to if you're aiming to make a strong impression.
Our Top Three Tips on Dressing for Success
Based on our research, expert advice, and the latest social media trends, here are our top tips to help you nail your work wardrobe:
1. Dress for the Job You Want
Looking sharp isn’t just about appearances—it can actually boost your mindset and productivity. Dressing smartly can help put you in the right mood to tackle your day with confidence.
2. Colour is Your Creative Palette
Use colour to your advantage! It’s a great way to express yourself and signal different intentions. Avoid sticking to neutrals—bold choices can make a big impact.
3. Keep it Professional
Stick to your company’s dress code and avoid pushing the limits. While creativity is great, there’s a fine line between expressing yourself and breaking the rules. Keep it appropriate!
