When it comes to clothing in the work place, it is important to remember that the way you look (whether we like it or not) does make an impression on others. For example, when you walk into an interview or your first day on the job, the first thing people will notice is your appearance. If you are walking into a corporate environment but do not have a jacket on, or are wearing open toe shoes, you are going to stick out like a sore thumb. Alternatively, if it is a super casual environment, it may not be appropriate to wear a suit.

Your best bet if you are starting a new job is to dress conservatively in the first week. You can model yourself off the person who interviewed you for the job, but also remember that you have your own personal brand to uphold. Invest in a simple conservative black dress, black suit, dress pants and a collared shirt or nice blouse. Male or female, my advice for a first day of work outfit is black pants, a nice structured white top, and bring a suit jacket. You may not wear the suit jacket, but at least it is there if you need it. I would also keep a pair of heels or nice polished pair of work shoes under you desk so you always have them if needed.

This article by Fortune describes a situation where an employee wants to dress for “the job they want” but the team they work in is very casual. It explains that you should take pride in your appearance and it still is important to dress for the job you want, not the job you have. You can do so in a way that isn’t going to make you look completely out of place.