The Dos and Don'ts of Wearing Shorts to the Office

We've been students for a long time and the dress code of school is pretty relaxed, especially once you get to college. In an 8:30am class you can see people wearing everything from jeans, to blazers, to pyjamas. There were no rules. Sadly for you pyjama loving people, those days are over. Now we have to put some serious thought into what we wear and we have to abide by dress codes.

When I interned at NBC Action News in Kansas City my boss told me "dress for the job you want, not the job you have." That was why I always wore business attire during that internship. Even though the office was very relaxed on the dress code for those who weren't in front of the camera, I still wanted to come off as professional. One day I want to be in front of a camera and if I'm always looking camera ready then it is much easier for my bosses to see me in that roll.

Now, we may have rules to follow, but we also like to look good, don't we? There are tons of options for business attire but today we are focusing on one: shorts at the office. This is a tough look to pull off while trying to look professional so let's start with the dont's:

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This is an office, people. That means NO jean shorts. Those are way too casual, as is the rest of this outfit. Even if she did put on dressier shorts, the slouchy t-shirt is way too casual.

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Now, just because you put on a nice top doesn't mean it's business appropriate. These shorts are way too short and would definitely not fly in a business setting.

 

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This is a don't disguised as a do. The shorts aren't jeans and the watch and high neckline makes it look more business appropraite but in my opinion, this is still too casual.

 

Now, on to the do's!

 

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This outfit is great for the office. The shorts are part of a suit, which makes it look a lot more business appropriate. It is also tailored and paired with a high neckline. Beautifully done!

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Even when it's not part of a suit, you can make it look like it is. By pairing matching colours together it makes the look come together better.

  

If you're going to rock a bare leg, here is how I suggest you do it:



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These shorts are highwaisted, well tailored, not too tight and not too short. Pairing it with a nice work blouse makes her look like she's on her way to the office instead of the nightclub.

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The beautiful high neckline of this blouse keeps this outfit looking modest and ready to rule the boardroom.

 



I suggest trying the shorts with tights. It's a good way to be able to rock shorts without feeling overexposed.

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These shorts are a great fabric and the beautiful ribbon belt keeps them dressed up as well.

 



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You can even rock your tights in colours too but be very careful with this. Keep the tights opaque and the rest of your outfits nuetral. Also, nothing too crazy. Red it pretty wild as it is but there's no need to go out and buy yourself a pair of lime green tights.

 

Ultimately, you know what your office will probably allow. You can ask someone if you're curious or try the most conservative version first. Be careful though, there's nothing worse than having someone comment on your outfit being "innapropraite."

 

Go forth and show your flare for fashion!

 

From the desk of:

 

Taylor Brown

Lover of shorts and tights, Hater of "innapropriate" office attire