Dressing for the office is not just about picking out a shirt and pants. Everyday mistakes when dressing, like wearing ill-fitted clothes, not paying attention to shoes, and wearing flashy accessories can make you look unprofessional in the workplace.

While some style choices may seem minor, they can make a big impact on how others perceive you. Simple strategies like choosing the right length and width of tie, and maintaining a clean look can make you look sharp, professional, and well-put-together.

Here are a few mistakes to avoid while dressing for work every day.

• Wearing clothes that don’t fit properly

Ill-fitting clothes can make you look sloppy or uncomfortable, which can make you look unprofessional in the workplace. Choose clothes that fit your body type, and if needed, invest in minor alterations. A well-tailored blazer or pair of trousers makes a world of difference. Pay attention to shoulder seams, sleeve lengths, and pant breaks to ensure a clean, streamlined look.

• Ignoring the importance of shoes

Shoes are one of the first things people notice, yet they can be an afterthought for many while dressing. Wearing worn-out or inappropriate shoes can instantly break your outfit. Invest in a few pairs of quality shoes appropriate for the office, such as leather oxfords, loafers, or brogues. Avoid scuffed or poorly-maintained footwear, and remember to polish your shoes regularly.

• Wearing mismatched colour

Wearing colours that clash or don’t complement each other can make your outfit look unplanned or haphazard. Stick to neutral tones for the office, such as navy, grey, black, and white, as they are versatile and easy to match. Add subtle pops of colour with ties, pocket squares, or socks. A navy suit with a white shirt and a grey or patterned tie, for example, is a classic combination.

• Overdoing accessories

While accessories can elevate an outfit, too many or flashy accessories can look distracting and unprofessional. Keep accessories minimal. A classic wristwatch, a subtle tie clip, and a simple leather belt are all you need to add sophistication without overdoing it. Avoid large or overly decorative rings, loud pocket squares, or flashy cufflinks for daily office wear.

• Choosing wrinkled or dirty clothes

Not paying attention to presentation can ruin your look even if you have spent time and effort in choosing the right outfit. Make sure your clothes are clean, ironed, and free of any stains. Iron or steam your shirts and pants, and invest in wrinkle-resistant fabrics if your schedule doesn’t allow for frequent pressing. Keep a lint roller handy, especially if you wear dark-coloured suits or have pets.

• Wearing the wrong tie length or width

Small details matter. Wearing a tie that’s too long or too short, or that doesn’t match the width of your lapel, can throw off your look. Your tie should end at your belt line for the perfect length. Typically, the width of the tie should match the width of the lapel. Slim ties work well with modern, slim-fit suits, while wider ties look better with classic-cut suits.

• Neglecting grooming and personal hygiene

Subtle grooming habits go a long way in completing your polished look. Keep your hair neat, trim any facial hair if you have it, and make sure your nails are clean and neatly cut. Don’t overdo cologne, as strong scents can be distracting or even off-putting in a professional setting. Neglecting these small things can take away from your overall appearance.

Dressing for the office doesn’t have to be complicated, but paying attention to these style basics can elevate your look from sloppy to professional. By paying attention to these small things, you are sure to make a positive impression at your workplace.