This guy clearly took the lesson "dress for the job you want" to heart.
Here at brass, we have a very casual dress policy. I normally wear a pair of jeans, a t-shirt, a sweatshirt, my skate shoes and a New Era ballcap. But for days when I want to step it up a notch (when we interview new interns) I've been known to throw on a brass-logo polo and some slacks. Even in a casual environment, dressing up a little more than you have to shows professionalism.
The basic rule of thumb for any work environment is to observe what others in the workplace wear and tailor your appearance to match--don't forget to set yourself apart with a little careful accessorizing. Another key is to match your level of dress to the level of those who have the job you want. For example, if you work as an intern but want to be the boss, start dressing like one. Showing you care could show up in your paycheck.
To start dressing like an adult without having to spend like one, check out secondhand stores in affluent neighborhoods.
Here in Corvallis we have a fairly large Goodwill, but unfortunately most of the suits and business attire look like they stepped right out of the 1970s. In Portland (Oregon's largest city) however, there's a Goodwill in the Pearl District (very upscale) filled with trendy outfits for cheap prices. Also keep an eye out for sales at mainstream department stores--this winter I picked up a nice sport coat at Kohl's for half the price. Also try Forever 21 for the ladies and Ross for everyone.
And for the sake of ending this blog with a cliche, "Dress for success."
--Jens
Photo taken from photostreams 1 and 2 and used with permission of a Creative Commons license.
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