Elegance Doctrine: The Art of the First impression

Laura M

First impressions are everything, and how you present yourself often shapes how people think about you. The first few seconds of meeting someone new can have a lasting impact, making it one of the most crucial components of your first day. First impressions in the workplace can impact the level of competence and likeability you are perceived to have. Making a positive first impression can raise those levels, while also opening doors to potential job opportunities and collaborations down the road. 

It’s important to remember, when meeting new people at a new office, they’re not only looking at your outfit. Things like your body language and facial expression provide that first visual indicator of who you are. In terms of communicating, active listening and speaking clearly and confidently play a large role in how a first conversation might shape how you’re perceived by coworkers. So many things go into making a positive first impression that it can be overwhelming, but of course, it’s important to remember to be authentic to you. 

That being said, your outfit does play a large role in the first impression you make. There are three major parts of your first day outfit: clothing, shoes, and accessories. All play a role, some larger than others. While the clothes you wear take up the most space visually, your shoes and accessories can potentially have a greater impact. 

There are a few things to consider to put together the perfect outfit and make an effortless statement. First, it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed. It’s okay to play it a little safer on the first day to gauge the vibes of the office and how formally your coworkers are dressed. Being more modest is a safe way to do this, potentially by opting for pants rather than a skirt or dress. Fit and length can sometimes be concerns, and with pants, those problems can be easily avoided. 

However, skirts and dresses are still great options for business attire if you pick the right ones. Longer options are trendy right now, so it would be both stylish and safe to go with a midi length or longer. Try to avoid anything too form-fitting or short. Asymmetric hemlines are also popular and could be a great way to add some personality back into your outfit.

Next, wear something you feel comfortable and confident in. Your clothes can impact your body language and overall mood, so pick something that lets you put your best foot forward. Make sure to wear something that is comfortable for both sitting and moving around, keeping in mind the requirements of your new position.  

Color choice also plays a role in the first impression you make. While black and navy are common and typically seen as professional, wearing a brighter color can show your personality and make you stand out. Color psychology is used everywhere, from marketing and branding to personal dressing, making it an important part of your first day outfit. Red can give off bold energy, but it can also be alarming. Pink can provide a feminine touch to any outfit, but it can take away from a confident first impression.

Different colors tend to look better on different people as well, so make sure that whatever color you wear isn’t overpowering you. A pastel yellow might stand out more on someone with a darker complexion, but wash out someone with a lighter skin tone. A neon blue might match someone’s persona completely, but overshadow another person’s outfit and personality entirely. Whatever color you decide to wear can influence that first impression, so go for something that represents you and aligns with how formal you want to look. 

While there’s a lot to consider, there are a few ways to play it safe while also wearing what you feel right in. Maybe think back to your interviews and notice what the professionals from the company were wearing for some inspiration and insight into the formality of the office. If you opt for a more traditional outfit like a pantsuit, play with some accessories that make you feel more like yourself. This could look like wearing gold hoops or maybe a statement belt, both of which are trendy. If you decide to wear a darker color like black or navy, maybe add in a pop of color with your accessories or shoe choice. You can also spice up any outfit with an interesting shoe, like a pointed toe kitten heel or a Mary Jane flat.  

Of course, it’s important to remember that what works for one job might not work for another. Shorter skirts and brighter colors might work for a more casual, artistic role, while at the same time would be viewed as unprofessional at a stricter office. In the same way, a full pantsuit might be overkill at a casual office, but perfect for a role that requires more uniformity. That being said, there is a way to infuse any outfit with things that feel like you, whether it’s how you do your hair or how you accessorize.  

Ultimately, the best advice for your first day at a new job is to simply be yourself. This can apply to your personality, but also to how you dress. Don’t be afraid to let yourself shine through your outfit to make that first impression, and to make it last. You accomplished so much to get yourself to that office and new position, so give yourself some grace and stay true to yourself, because she’s the one that got you there.