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?

For popping in with your ID your outfit is fine! You might find you just see a receptionist anyway and if you do meet your team you can get a nosey at what they are wearing

Any of the things you've suggested would be fine in my office but I honestly doubt anyone will notice as long as youre not in a tracksuit or pyjamas! It's more important to be friendly and professional which I'm sure you will be, good luck.

Your outfit would be absolutely fine for my office too. In fact, it would be fine for a normal days work, I'd say at least half the women wear smart white leather trainers on any given day. And they're people of all seniority. Our HR Director is particularly fond of the summer dress and trainers combo.

I work in a stuffy old fashioned industry by the way, nothing arty or in tech

You are only dropping in some ID, it's not a working day, what you've suggested is perfectly fine as long as it's clean and ironed. You are overthinking it, and this thread won't have helped.

Don't feel like you have to dress like someone else or worry about your tattoo/ nose piercing (unless your tattoo is anything that could be offensive), let your individuality show. Having something that is easy to recognise like a piercing or funky hair makes it easy for people to remember you which is always a bonus when meeting a new team.

Thanks everyone. I've been in and they didn't take one look at me and revoke my contract so I'm all good!
Although starting this thread was possibly ill advised, it did actually end up giving me the confidence to wear what I had so thanks for all the input.

That’s good!

Did you get a look at your new colleagues?

@firebrand123 read this and really felt for you. Have done this and it is so daunting. My advice... get yourself some plain black tops and bottom halves - skirts, trousers etc for a "capsule" work wardrobe. Can be as smart as you like or as casual as your like. But it covers all sorts of work situations and you don't need to panic next time.

Wish someone had told me this year's ago.

Good luck with the new job!

@Thingamebobwotsit thank you! That's exactly what I had planned to do before starting my new job, I just hadn't thought about having to go in and see anyone before that. I'm sure I'll still find it daunting but I will take your advice 😊

I did and they were all nicely dressed but fairly casual so I think pretty much anything goes as long as it's well presented and not jeans.