What would you wear in this situation?

[firebrand123]

I'm going into the office where I'll be starting a new job next month. I'm just taking in my ID for HR and then meeting some of the team. All my interviews were on video so I haven't seen what's usual office wear but I'm expecting smart casual. As I'm just popping in and it's not an interview - and it's hot at the moment - I was thinking midi skirt with nice top (kind of tshirt material but sits nicely and has a sort of frill sleeve) and smart trainers. Would that be ok?

That sounds perfectly fine to me

No frills - they’ll mark you down as a pushover before you even start!

Very simple, very stark. Linen if possible.

Seems fine to me, I'd opt for leather sandals rather than trainers if you have them

Yes, lay off frills but cotton is fine

Not sure about trainers. I still see them as casual. Other flats maybe? I still think a summer dress looks better. What you describe has no personality. Sort of identikit office worker. What company does will give you a clue!

Honestly I’d wear just what you’d wear on a working day. You want to be seen as professional rather than as a visitor.

Thanks everyone. I'll have to rethink. Problem is I find it really hard to style myself and I'm coming from a job where everyone wore jeans and trainers and I've not yet had a chance to shop for the new job. My interview outfits are going to make me a sweaty mess and I currently have a sore toe so am struggling to wear anything that's not a trainer (I don't have sandals).

This is the top - too frilly? I don't have another short sleeve one that covers my arm tattoo other than an animal print one (also black and white)

That doesn’t look like even smart casual office wear. (It’s a bit ill-advised teen work experience person.)

Get a plain linen shirt in a neutral colour. Try

Uniqlo

then you won’t have to spend much.

Linen creases. Cotton is better. The t shirt top is a bit too casual.

It's this afternoon, I have no time to shop. I guess I'll have to go in looking like an idiot then. This just reinforces I have no clue how to dress, even at my age.

Don’t get in a flap!

Not a single plain shirt in your wardrobe?

Not a single shop that might sell one on the way?

If so, wear what you have. Observe what your future colleagues are wearing. Sort out your wardrobe. It’ll be fine.

You're overthinking it. Sounds absolutely fine. Just make sure everything you wear is clean and pressed and give your trainers the once over.

No plain shirts and no time to shop on route as I'm still working at my old job.
Unfortunately, as someone with anxiety, over thinking and getting in a flap are what I do!
I'm also conscious of my pierced nose, hair that still has a purple shade to it, tattoos that I'm hiding... one day I'll learn to blend in, in a good way!!

@firebrand123 Do you not have any time to buy a better top? What else do you own?

I have attached some dresses which are cotton and cooler than a waisted skirt. Shame you didn’t ask a bit earlier,

I could do wide leg trousers and brogues, would that be better? Brogues will have to go on last minute due to toe pain...

These are all M&S and not expensive. Can you leave early and find a shop?

@TizerorFizz it is a shame, I've just had so much going on lately I haven't had time to think ahead.

No, I'm working right up til I leave

Your outfit will be fine. They know you are a bit alternative already, they interviewed you. Gauge the clothing situation when you visit later and reconsider clothing for your start date then if needed.

You're only taking your ID in. It's not a board or investors meeting. Or even a normal day in the office. Honestly anything. And while you're there check out what other people wear.

I think what you suggested to begin with sounded absolutely fine! And the top is nice. good luck OP!

Your outfit sounds absolutely fine OP.

You’re obviously not someone prone to turning into a sweaty mess? Cotton shirts can be vile for anyone so afflicted - in really hot weather they’re fit to be wrung out before you’ve left the house …

Particularly if you’re in a bit of a panic.

I dont think there is anything wrong with that top, midi skirt and trainers combo if you are just popping in.
As long as the clothes are clean and ironed and the trainers are low profile and not giant chonky things you will look smart/casual enough.