Back to the office for the first time in 15 years - help! What do I wear?

[VikingsandDragons]

I've been working for myself for the last decade, and a carer for a disabled child for a few years before that. I start a new job on Monday (civil service, mid level, office based) and I have absolutely no idea what people wear now, last time I had a first day it was full suit and heels but I suspect times have moved on! What would you wear for first day and beyond? And what do I do about shoes?!

I'm early 40s, size 10, suit bolder colours like jewel shades rather than pastels or pale tones. I try to wear mostly natural fabrics where I can due to eczema. Thanks for helping me in my panic.

Congrats on your new job! Office wear can vary hugely in the civil service, depending on the department, in Westminster or not, etc etc. I've seen civil servants in mini skirts and DM boots with a smart jacket, chinos and smart trainers, and suited and booted, all in the same room.
But for a first day I'd always just go with something on the smarter side that you feel comfortable in. Like, simple trousers or skirt, simple top. You don't need a shirt, suit jacket or stilettoes! Then you can gauge it on your first day. I'm in government and the most senior person in the building wears Adidas trainers and bold colours. The CS isn't as stuffy as it used to be. Well, in some places it is but that's the exception not the rule in my experience. Good luck!

Thanks so much, I'm in a regional office so I'm guessing eventually it may be a bit more casual but I'll go shirt and skirt day one as you suggest

I agree with PP. I work with a lot of civil servants at various levels of seniority and it’s generally pretty relaxed. I’d say a good majority of people wear trainers (men and women) although generally not with jeans. I would dress a bit smarter at first - smart trousers, loafers and a nice top - until you work out the vibe. I would say, however, in my limited experience that regional offices actually tend to be a bit smarter than central government. Clearly, there’s the odd thing that people dress up for and Parliamentarians are often still smart, but it’s very casual on the whole in Westminster.