Work Skirts vs. Work Pants: Which Works Best for You?
Wearing company uniforms can help you feel more confident and look your very best. This is important for so many reasons — you should always feel incredible no matter what you’re wearing, and in professional environments that positive attitude can go a long way.
But one conundrum that often befalls women when building their work wardrobes is whether to wear custom uniform work pants or skirts instead. There are arguments in favor of both, of course, and there’s no reason to limit yourself to just one type of outfit when there are so many flattering and appropriate options available for professional environments. Here are some ways to determine the right choice for your needs.
The Power of the Skirt
The case for the custom uniform work skirt is undeniable. If you tend to work primarily with people who wear pant suits, you’ll stand out for your decision to wear a skirt.
Think of this as an opportunity to stand out. Your sense of dress will help you feel confident, ambitious, and in a position of authority. Moreover, skirts are just as versatile as pants! You can pair them with anything you would wear with those tailored black trousers. A skirt looks flawless with a blouse and a blazer, for example, or with a shell top and a matching cardigan. Step into a pair of ballet flats or low-profile pumps and you have an inarguably perfect work ensemble that works well in just about any professional environment.
The Perfect Pair of Pants
Of course, nothing beats a great pair of pants at the workplace, either. It’s classic, comfortable, and easy to wear with anything.
Pant styles vary dramatically, which is another factor to consider. If you work in a particularly conservative office or a relatively structured industry, your pant style should reflect the general tone of your company. Anything neutral in tone is always a safe choice — and you’ll be able to pair a neutral bottom with anything else in your closet, from classic V-neck sweaters to tailored jackets. Don’t dismiss uniform work pants, either. Soft, relaxed, and effortless, they’re a great option for a less formal workspace.
The Style Factor
Shopping for professional skirts and pants is considerably different than selecting styles you might wear when you’re meeting friends for dinner or hanging out with the family on the weekend. You’ll need to keep material, cut, and style in mind so that your outfit is in line with the office dress code.
If you’re buying pants, examine the fit closely. Avoid anything that’s too skinny or tight; these may not pass muster in the workplace. It’s best to stick with tailored, neat pants with sleek silhouettes in more professional workplaces. Wide legs are generally fine and also look great with a uniform jacket or tailored blazer. A classic fit is the old standard and is easy to pair with any of your other professional separates.
When shopping for your skirt, consider the length. Something short is likely to be appropriate in more casual work environments. The right style should fall at least to your knees when you’re standing up. When you sit, the skirt should cover the entirety of your thighs and generally graze the knee or fall directly below. A slight back slit is generally permissible and allows for easier movement, while a front slit conveys a dressier, trendier vibe.
The Color Scheme
Color matters, too, and largely depends on the type of environment in which you work. If it’s more of a relaxed or creative space, something bright and upbeat wouldn’t be completely out of place. You can create a balanced look by pairing it with a custom uniform work sweater in a neutral shade.
Otherwise, neutral colors like gray, black, brown, navy, and tan are best for more conservative industries and offices. These are easy to mix and match with other separates, allowing you to create fresh looks every day of the week, even with a limited number of pieces. If you’re ever uncertain about what to wear, take your cue from others in the office.
There are different factors to consider when it comes to choosing a work skirt or work pants to wear. Your ultimate decision should be a combination of comfort and appropriateness for your workplace.