Please help me design a work uniform

[MythicalChicken]

I recently set up my own business developing professional salon products. I have worked very hard on the formulation of my products, the branding, etc. and am now ready to take them to the market. A lot of my time will be spent visiting beauty salons and shops and I haven't a clue what to wear! I feel that I need some kind of uniform, not just my normal clothes.

My products are all certified Organic but are luxury products. I therefore need a look that says 'organic' but also 'luxury', i.e. no hessian sack, but equally nothing artificial looking.

I was thinking some kind of branded polo shirt, although I don't think they are very flattering. So maybe a t-shirt, but that might be a bit scruffy. And maybe black trousers and high heels? No, that sounds awful. Actually I haven't a clue. Which is why I am here.

Please ladies of style, give me some suggestions.

Thanks.

Definitely don't wear your logo - if you must then possibly on a bag/case. How will you transport samples? Regardless of what you wear if the packaging of your samples looks battered, you're not conveying the right message - so don't underestimate the importance of the bag you use. And this is something you can do with "organic" credentials.

Start knowing your market - articles like this are a good start. [http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/news/fashion-news/the-best-ethical-fashion-brands-to-know-sustainable-fashion-84169 Ethical Fashion Brands]] You could do worse than buying some basics from [http://www.peopletree.co.uk/women/dresses People Tree]]

I'd keep it nice and simple. Smart black or grey trousers and a nice wrap shirt. I'd avoid putting the logo on it but you could get some in colours that match your branding.

I think patterned skirts etc will look too fussy and having dark trousers and a few coloured tops that all co-ordinate gives you the ease of having a uniform without having to stick a logo on it.

...you could get some in colours that match your branding.

That is an AWESOME idea! My logo is black on a white background with rose gold. I would love to show it to you but I don't want to get into trouble with Mumsnet.

How about...

... with a bag similar to this...

Depends on vibe your going for. From your description sounds quite laid back and accessible so I would suggest:

Fitted 7/8 casual smart trouser in black or fitted slightly above new skirt
Breton top in black and white (long sleeve in cold, short sleeve in warm)
Open faded grey denim shirt over the top
Red lippy
Sleek hair
Or a combination of the above. Some pictures to try and sho what I mean....

Watch QVC shopping channel and get some ideas from the people showing the products (not the QVC presenters).

The woman who is part of M. Assam always looks nice.

Firstly can I just point out that many sales people DO actually know what they are talking about!!
Definitely NO to the logo or any kind of uniform as such. To me people who work in salons are usually pretty fashion conscious so you will need to look smart and trendy ( not too trendy though) and logos/uniforms are certainly not.
Buy a few pairs of smart trousers, anything made from Ponte are pretty good and comfy. Look at Baujken, I think a lot of their stuff may fit the bill.

Yeah, maybe... I'm not very good at casual. Or smart. And couldn't wear a shirt with pockets as I have enormous boobs (32H).

Disclaimer: Last time I mentioned my enormous boobs, I got accused of stealth bragging and ended up leaving the thread in tears. Just for info, my boobs are more Hattie Jacques than Jordan, so not bragging. Thanks.

If you must have your logo you could get it done on a small,metal pin badge and wear it discretely on a shirt or blouse. My first vision was a nice blouse with either black cigarette pants, heels and a good quality bag. I agree other posters re looking polished. Nice nails, hair, makeup etc. You wouldn't look like a sales person just a smart business woman.

If you must have your logo you could get it done on a small,metal pin badge and wear it discretely on a shirt or blouse.

I like this idea.

7/8 black/navy trousers. Smart top/shirt with 3/4 length sleeves (so they don't drag in products as you demonstrate them) and smart shoes -flats or mid height heels.

I love love love those shoes.

Thanks WaxyBean, that sounds nice! Have you seen any trousers like that, with a bit of stretch? Not denim as it fades. Also a 3/4 blouse would be perfect. Thanks for the suggestions.

They're lovely Anarchy, aren't they?

If it was me,
I would go for a nice cream pair of chino style trousers (either full length or cropped). Smart leather shoes ( flat or heel, your preferences). A cream or white loose shirt, with a nice darker cardigan / waistcoat style cover.

I would design a nice lanyard card with your business logo on, and your name. I think this also looks professional.
I would want to stay away from black, if your business is natural and organic, I would want every thing to scream that.
But that's me!
Good luck OP. Let us know what you end up with!!

Thanks Tulips, I will. I really appreciate everyone's help.

No trainers

No teenaged stretch dresses

No bloody logos

Just fabric that drapes well... I like the personal shopper idea.

Consider getting your colours done and from there create a new look with the widest choice of colours. Like house of colour or colour me beautiful. Or just go shopping with a friend who always looks groomed.

Keep grooming kit and straighteners in the car ...

Thanks slinkyma, I did that and I am a Clear Spring. The colors that suit me are coral and turquoise.

I think black trouser suit, white top, rose gold accessories. Simple, professsional and on brand.

Logos on things like pens, paperwork, folders etc. Not on you.

After my initial unhelpful post

I offer this "uniform" from Satchi in the form of an apology. Sorry for jumping the gun
adage.com/article/agency-news/creative-explains-wears-uniform-work/297975/