How to Dress for a Human Resources Job

Last Updated: March 16, 2023 References

Working in human resources is a fast-paced, diverse career field that involves multitasking and interacting with lots of people. It's important to always look your best when working in human resources, because it's a demanding field where first impressions reflect how clients will view you and your company. Know how to dress for a human resources job and make your wardrobe a key to success.

Steps

1
Buy working basics.^{[1]
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- Dress for a human resources job by stocking your wardrobe with a few basic pieces that can be worn in different combinations so your outfits always look professional. Some of these basics might include black trousers or slacks, a solid-colored skirt, a dark blazer or jacket or a white button-down shirt. When in doubt about your outfit, incorporating one or more of these professional basics will polish your look.
2
Cover piercings and tattoos.^{[2]
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- Your human resources job will require you to represent your company or organization to lots of people, and some executives could consider visible piercings or tattoos unprofessional or too edgy. Keep ear piercings simple, take out any facial or tongue piercings and cover tattoos with long sleeves or pants when you're dressing for work in human resources
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3
Make your makeup simple.^{[3]
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- A human resources job isn't the place for fake eyelashes or black lipstick. Remember that you're representing your company and keep your makeup understated and attractive. Your makeup can be unique as long as it's still professional. If you want to add more color, try adding it in moderation, like wearing colorful eyeshadow but skipping the bold lipstick.
4
Check clothing lengths.^{[4]
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- Be sure that shirts and sweaters are long enough to cover your stomach and midriff without exposing cleavage and that skirts reach at least to your fingertips when your hands are at your sides. Avoid skirts with high slits or shirts with see-through material, as these might show too much skin or be too provocative for the workplace.
5
Dress for your clientele.^{[5]
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- Tailor your human resources work wardrobe to the clients you meet with. A meeting with high-level international executives probably calls for a suit and jewelry, whereas a meeting with a small, grassroots or nonprofit group would allow you to dress more business casual.
6
Read your company handbook.
- Review your company's dress code in the employee handbook. Being familiar with the expected dress code will help you choose clothing that meets your company's expectations for employee appearance.
7
Overdress when in doubt.^{[6]
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- If you're not sure whether something is too casual, assume that it is and dress up your outfit. It's better to be a little overdressed or look more professional than necessary than to look overly casual or unprofessional.

Expert Q&A

Question

What advice do you have for making your wardrobe fit the best?

Cassandra Sethi
Personal Stylist & Image Consultant
Cassandra Sethi is a Personal Stylist, Image Consultant, and the Founder of Next Level Wardrobe, a luxury personal styling service for busy professionals. With over 20 years of fashion industry experience, Cassandra helps people transform their confidence by creating a work wardrobe they love to wear. Cassandra holds a BA in Fashion Merchandising from California State University, Long Beach, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Fashion Buying and Merchandising from the London College of Fashion. She created Soulcycle's retail business and was the Senior Buyer for 90+ Equinox gyms. Cassandra has been featured on New York’s PIX11 in an interview about how to achieve great work-from-home style as well as in Men's Health, Business of Fashion, and NYMag.

Cassandra Sethi

Personal Stylist & Image Consultant

Expert Answer

Consult with a personal stylist or a tailor to help you find the proper fit on all your clothing.