Dressing Professionally When You Don’t Conform to Gender Norms

Nobody likes the uncomfortable, stiff clothing that professional work attire often requires us to wear. Let’s face it, we would all love to work in our pajamas and dread the confining clothes of corporate America. But, what if the clothes aren’t the only thing you find constricting? What if the gender roles they convey make your stomach turn?

We’ve all seen the pictures of how to “Dress for Success” that feature a masculine appearing person in a suit and a feminine appearing person in a skirt or dress. But what if you are a female who dresses more masculine? Or a male who dresses more feminine? What if you don’t identify with either gender? Or two genders? Or Neither?

Whether you are dressing for an interview or a big meeting with a client, it is important that you look and feel your best, while still being polished and professional. Here are the tried and true standbys re-written for the modern queer without dividing the advice into gender specific catagories.

·         Avoid patterns or bright colors and stick with a neutral palette. Most career coaches will tell you to stick with black, brown, tan, navy, white, and gray

·         Get your clothing tailored and avoid anything that is too baggy or too tight

·         Wear clothes that are clean and wrinkle free. Get a lint roller and a steamer to ensure that no matter what you wear, it looks amazing on you

·         Most job interviews require a suit be worn, however you dress, include a blazer and a tie if applicable

·         Wear deodorant and avoid cologne or perfume that may be distracting

·         If you wear makeup or nail polish, keep it neutral and smudge free and avoid longer, dirty nails

·         Style your hair in a way that is neat and clean and avoid hairstyles that may be distracting

·         Get a pair of dress shoes that are comfortable and appropriate, preferably flats

·         Jewelry should be minimal and subtle so that it does not detract from what you are saying

If your concern is centered on the company dress code, consider asking HR what the provisions are for gender inclusivity in dress.

Above all else, you need to be comfortable at work and it is important to observe dress codes when you arrive for an interview as well as read through the dress code in any employee handbook you are given. Decide whether or not the way that you prefer to dress is in line with the company policies.

Its 2019, Dress for Success by defining what Success looks like for you.