new job - any outfit ideas?

[thinkingaboutitall]

I am staying with my company but transferring to a new department in a new office (finance - smart dress code). Therefore I have met some of my new colleagues online, but want to make a good impression when we meet in person - my induction is next week. It almost feels like an interview.

The issue is that the weather is going to be 30 degrees, so dressing very smartly might be uncomfortable. I don’t want to look unprofessional by dressing down on my first day either.

I’m early 20s and find business attire really difficult as I don’t have much professional experience. Any outfit ideas that would create a good impression whilst also not causing me to overheat would be great

I would wear a smart sleeveless dress or shirtdress of some sort. Like this: www.warehousefashion.com/tie-waist-shirt-dress/AWW00594-105-22.html?istCompanyId=9875fbb9-8403-4ba5-a198-ed8f594c95e5&istFeedId=da0f5c51-3435-4ead-bbfe-845651be6b20&istItemId=ptirqatmr&istBid=t&gclid=CjwKCAjwi9-HBhACEiwAPzUhHMVOthu6yjtpdsKjGR1qTke-C_OSVJwHd5EhANPrI6TdFLoN9doJJBoCAzUQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

I'd err on the side of darker if concerned it won't be "smart" enough. Darker is dressier. I'd pair it with dark sandals, or closed toe heels if you are worried about open toe shoes - although few workplaces are that conservative any more.

Check whether they have any formal dress code guidelines.

@BuffySummersReportingforSanity thanks for the speedy reply! That dress is lovely, thank you. I would definitely wear it to work, but I’m worried about it being too short? It’s a bit too hot for tights and I haven’t sussed out what other colleagues wear just yet so might play it safe

The dress code just states business attire - and no casual items (t shirts, shorts, denim, trainers, sandals) and no slogans.

Gosh, it is quite short in the last pic now I see that one!

Here's a much longer if slightly pricier alternative from Cos: www.cosstores.com/en_gbp/women/womenswear/dresses/product.belted-shirt-dress-black.0973803002.html

Any darkish sleeveless sheath style dress would do though, just until you have the chance to see what others are wearing. It's a safe option and in cotton you shouldn't overheat.