Some of the most exciting of work can be the most dangerous—and sometimes, having to gear up to make sure you are protected can suck a lot of personality out of the clothes we wear.
Of course, safety should always be more important than fashion, and in many cases, you will be judged on how seriously you take health and safety too.
However, that does not mean you have to choose one or the other, you just might have to be a little more creative with what you deem as stylish, and work with what you can.
Leave the stilettos at home and your tie in the wardrobe, and let’s take a look at how you can stay chic and safe.
Read on to find out more!
Know What Your Work Requires of You
Knowing what your work requires of you is one of the main factors to consider when putting your outfits together. For example, if you are working with machinery and need to make sure you are not wearing any loose clothing that can get caught, then you will obviously want to avoid baggy pants, tops, and other accessories such as scarves or ties. If you know you are going to be outside in all kinds of weather conditions, then focusing on waterproof and windproof materials might be more beneficial than a regular coat or jacket.
Thankfully, you can get plenty of styles when it comes to workwear now, which can help you give your outfits a little more personality. Why not choose a brightly colored or patterned coat? Or why not opt for some pants that have been fitted and tailored to you properly so they are both functional and flattering?
Incorporate Safety in Your Shoes
No matter what your job demands of you, having a good pair of shoes is essential for making sure your shift does not drag any more than it has to! There is not much worse than burning feet and achy legs while you do not have time to sit down—though having machinery cut through your shoe, or slipping and injuring yourself is pretty high up there too.
Thankfully, there are many stylish shoes on the market now that have the workplace in mind. Take a look at this great selection of slip resistant shoes for women—there are many different options to choose from, each with their own unique personality.
Bring Layers to the Party
Feeling cold at work and not being able to do anything about it can feel like adding insult to injury. Avoid putting yourself in a situation where you have to rely on someone allowing the central heating on or where you will worry about breaks to get warm, and bring yourself enough layers to make you feel like you could get through a snowstorm. You can always take layers off if you get too hot, but if you do not have enough layers to put on when you’re cold, there is not much you can do but suffer the chills!
This is a particularly good idea if your job is varied. Perhaps you are in the office in the morning but on-site by lunch. Maybe you have to work in various weather conditions but also have your own office.
Getting too cold can cause serious health problems, so be sure to layer up and make sure you are comfortable.
Be Visible
Florescent jackets might not be much of a fashion statement, but they can be a serious piece of kit that will keep you safe when you are on-site or out and about. Being visible is extremely important around people who are using heavy machinery or when you are working in the dark.
Of course, highlighter yellow is not exactly known for being the most flattering and mixable shade, but if you do have to wear high-visibility clothing, then focus on other aspects of your outfit that you do have control over.
This could be wearing a decent pair of jeans, accessories if your job permits them, or a nice pair of shoes if you are not walking miles.
Use Make-up and Creative Hairstyles
Sometimes when outfits are extremely strict, you can get away with injecting some style into your hair and make-up. Of course, it will depend on what type of job role you have as to whether you will be able to wear certain make-up and hairstyles. For example, if you are in nursing, false nails and nail varnish are a no, but subtle make-up can often be worn.
It is up to you to judge what might be unsafe for you to have if you do not have any direct rules, but always know that your safety is more important than looking stylish! With these tips, you can have the best of both worlds.