The Business semiformal Dress Code Guide
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
with the semiformal dress code!
Be honest: Don’t you often stand in front of your wardrobe in the morning looking for inspiration for your daily business outfit? Exactly. We often feel the same way.
That’s why we find dress codes important and up-to-date. In our dress code guide we present the four most important ones. They can help to prevent fashionable business faux pas and can also be decisive in the choice of your business look.
Of course, the rules have become much looser and there are many companies you can be dressed quite casually. Many women also ask why they still need dress codes at all and that they are basically completely outdated.
But is this freedom really making it easier? Actually the opposite is the case, because freedom often results in being helpless when putting together the daily business outfit.
We believe a dress code can help to create the appropriate power business look and does exclude certain cuts, colours or shapes. And honestly, even if you are working in a start-up with no wardrobe requirements, very few women manage to convey sufficient sovereignty and style in a sexy outfit with a deep neckline and short skirt.
It is much better to get to grips with the topic and show style and self-confidence with the help of a suitable business look. Because as you know, for the first impression there is only one chance!
Following Business Casual and Business Formal, it is now the turn of the semiformal Business Dress Code.
SEMIFORMAL IN BUSINESS LIFE
The semiformal dress code makes a distinction between daytime and evening, i.e. before and after 18 o’clock. Our focus is on daytime, i.e. daily working life, as this is relevant for most working women.
The semiformal dress code is used in large companies, corporations, insurance companies and banks. So everywhere where representation and form are increasingly in demand. Like the formal dress code, it also serves to avoid distractions, but is a bit more relaxed in the choice of outfits. You can rather play with colours and shapes.
However, the formal aspect should not be forgotten. The skill here is to create a superior, classical, but not bourgeois individuality.
COLOURS
For the semiformal dress code, the following rule also applies: the more formal the darker. The usual colours such as black, dark blue and grey can always be worn. A nice alternative is also a dark violet or a classic aubergine or maroon tone, since here is exactly the difference to the formal dress code – not too strict anymore!
Dark colours are a safe choice in any case, especially for special occasions like meetings with the management level and board meetings, but you can get a bit more “colourful” at this point.
Clear, strong colours such as red, orange, dark green or fuchsia work well in daily business. Meanwhile, particularly the colour red has established itself as the absolute statement colour in business. A classic dress in clear red creates a fashionable look that sets accents but doesn’t seem overdone.
CUTS
With cuts one has a quite wide range in the semiformal dress code. Necklines shouldn’t be too deep and the skirts not too short. Following these rules, you can try out anything from straight and simple cuts to elaborate and asymmetrical ones.
The most important thing in any case is that you feel comfortable. Our recommendation is to choose the pure and simple cut and instead choose more unusual colours and colour combinations. This way individuality can be created, but the outfit remains effortless and smart enough.
A classic and yet fashionable look would be, for example, a skirt or dress in the new calf length, in addition a short blazer in a contrasting colour – and the semiformal dress code is immediately fulfilled.
And jumpsuits! Simply add a jacket and pumps and you have a comfortable yet confident outfit that fits all day long!
PATTERN
We love patterns in any shape for the business wardrobe. In the semiformal dress code, however, you should concentrate on a discreet choice of patterns in softer colours. Otherwise it can quickly become too intrusive.
A patterned blouse, for example, can set wonderful accents and lend a fresh spirit and variety to an outfit, especially in spring and summer.
Checked patterns are of course a long runner and should not be missing in your wardrobe. Together with plain colours, it creates a power look with a feel-good factor. Discreetly patterned dresses are a stylish alternative that can be used frequently, especially in the coming bright months.
In general, the semiformal dress code applies to business trips, internal meetings with board members or executives, client appointments and daily office life in certain companies.
The semiformal business dress code rules in short
Do’s
- Colours from subtle to clear, strong tones! Also in (selected) combination
- Cuts in almost every variation, from clear to sophisticated
- Skirt length knee-playing
- Cut-outs not deeper than upper breast base
- Pattern, please! In discreet colours and unobtrusive, also combined with plain colours
- Shoes with solid stand and heel height from 3 to 7 cm
- Modest jewellery
Dont’s
- Too bright colour combination
- Deep cut-outs or tops with carriers
- Skirts ending in the middle of the thigh or shorter
- No shorts
- Sneaker or sandals
- Translucent clothing
- Wild, strong patterns
- Flashy jewellery
What are your experiences with dress codes? Do you have any recommendations for a smart and confident semiformal look? Does your company have a dress code at all and if so, which one? Questions about questions! We are looking forward to your comments and suggestions. Write to us at info@styles4work.com!