What Should I Wear? Dressing for Work Without Breaking the Bank
- Nadia Renata
- Aug 8
- 4 min read
The First Step Series: Your Guide to First Job Success – Day 5
You will never get a second chance to make a first impression.
In your first job, people notice two things before you ever speak: how you carry yourself and how you’re dressed.
This doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune or look like a fashion model. But looking clean, put-together and appropriate for your role tells others one thing: you take yourself and your job seriously.
Let’s talk about how to do that, without running your bank account dry.
Dress for the Job You’re In
Different jobs have different expectations. If you’re unsure, observe what others wear or ask your supervisor during onboarding. But here’s a basic guide:
Office/Professional Roles:
Solid colour button-down shirts or blouses
Slacks, knee-length skirts or tidy dresses
Clean closed-toe shoes (especially in companies that are HSE focused)
Avoid jeans, spaghetti straps or overly tight/short outfits
Minimal jewellery
Retail & Customer Service:
Company-issued shirts or polos
Dark jeans or uniform pants (each company has its own rules on this one)
Closed-toe, comfortable shoes (invest in a good quality pair of insoles, trust me on this one!)
Minimal jewellery
Field/Outdoor Jobs:
Breathable, sturdy, quick drying clothing
Boots or heavy-duty shoes
Caps or hats for sun protection
Sunscreen and deodorant - your best friends
Trinidad and Tobago’s Heat is No Joke
You want to look sharp, but not sweat “bucket ah drop” before 10am. Here are some local tips:
Stick to cotton or breathable fabrics like linen or light polyester blends
Avoid thick layers unless the AC warrants it
Keep a rag in your bag or locker to freshen up during breaks
Stay hydrated - it helps you look (and smell) better too
You Don’t Need a Whole New Wardrobe
You just need a few key pieces you can mix and match. If money is tight, start small:
2–3 shirts
2 pants/skirts
1 comfortable pair of shoes
Neutral colours so they go with everything
Check out thrift stores, sale racks and even family hand-me-downs. Clean, neat and presentable > expensive and branded.
Grooming = Part of the Uniform
Your clothes don’t need to be fancy, but your hygiene must be on point. That means:
Fresh breath, clean teeth (don’t forget to brush your tongue)
Clean nails
Tidy hair or head covering
No overpowering perfume or cologne
No visible body odour (trust me on this one)
People respect the effort. It shows pride in how you present yourself.
Let’s Talk Undergarments (Yes, It Matters)
Your clothes might be clean but if your undergarments aren’t, people will notice. That includes bras, undershirts and underwear.
Avoid bright or patterned underwear under light-coloured or tight clothing. Opt for neutral tones that won’t show through.
Wash your bras regularly. Even if you rotate them, sweat builds up quickly in this heat - and odours carry (trust me on this!)
If you're working long shifts, consider having a spare or switching mid-week.
It's not about being fancy. It's about being fresh, respectful and comfortable in your own body.
Express Yourself - Just Not Too Loudly (Yet)
Want to show personality? Accessories or colours are great, but don’t go overboard. Until you understand your workplace culture, keep it simple and professional. You can always evolve your style as you grow in the role.
Respect the Space You’re In
It’s not just about what you like. It’s about what’s appropriate where you work. Dress in a way that fits the environment, respects your role and honours the opportunity you've been given. Regardless of your personal feelings about it, the reality is that people will judge you based on how you show up. And it is EXTREMELY difficult to undo a negative first impression.
You Are Your Brand
This is your first job and how you show up matters. You don’t need to be flashy. You just need to be clean, consistent and respectful. Because at the end of the day, your attitude will shine brighter than your outfit but both matter.
Affirmation: “I honour my body by caring for it with attention, dignity and love, even in the details no one sees.”
Downloadable Resource: The Workplace Wardrobe Checklist
A practical starter guide with role-specific outfit tips, grooming reminders and smart budget hacks; everything you need to build a professional wardrobe that suits you and your work environment.
Want more tools like this? Stay tuned for the First Step Toolkit at the end of the series.
This article is part of The First Step Series: Your Guide to First Job Success - a collection created to support young people entering the world of work for the first time.
Stay tuned for more articles, tools and affirmations to help you navigate your first job with confidence and purpose.
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