1. Underwear as outerwear
Camisoles or visible bra straps and lingerie are not cool.
2. Workout gear
Save the muscle shirts and spandex for the gym.
3. Soiled, stained or rumpled clothing
Neatness counts. Better to wear less expensive clothing that is cleaned and pressed than to sport designer grunge.
4. Shorts
Wearing shorts to work is just plain wrong.
5. Tattoos
Keep yours under wraps or disguised with a heavy spray-on makeup.
6. Extreme hair color
Natural looking highlights are fine, but never dye your hair blue, magenta or other colors not found in nature.
7. Too much cologne
A strong scent is a turnoff to most people. Just go for the clean smell of soap.
8. Long, fake or wild-colored nails
Keep your nails short and neat. Avoid nail decals, black polish or “Elvira” length nails.
9. Grungy beards
Most companies prefer clean-shaven men but if you can’t deal with that, at least keep it neatly trimmed.
10. Micro-miniskirts
Make sure there is no more than three or four inches between knee and hem. You want to be able to sit without giving a peep show.
11. Overly revealing attire
Too little is too much. Breasts, back and arms should be covered. Avoid overly snug outfits by making sure there is at least one inch of room between body and fabric.
12. Athletic socks with street shoes
People notice these things!
13. Body piercings
Studies show that most people see body jewelry as unprofessional and that people with multiple piercings are less likely to be hired or promoted.
14. Bare midriff
Make sure there is at least one inch of room between body and fabric and that your shirt is long enough to hide your midriff.
15. Low-rise pants
“Plumber’s crack” is not acceptable anywhere.