Halloween Dress Tips for the Office
Zombies R us?
Planning to dress up as a sexy zombie cheerleader for Halloween at the office? You better think twice! We’ve got some killer career advice so your career doesn’t join the walking dead.
11 Billion dollars on Halloween?
Halloween consumer spending in the US is expected to hit 11.3 billion dollars this year. (Canadians are to spend 1 billion this year.) Click here to read the Forbes article and study.
The even spookier news is that adult costumes sales have now eclipsed children’s.
Does this costume make me look… inappropriate
Whith this much money spent on adult costumes, some want to get double duty out of their Holloween apparal. Many people are planning to wear their nightclub appropriate costumes to work. In our business dress seminars we often remind people that club wear just doesn’t cut it in business.
We know you probably spent a lot on your sexy zombie costume, but here’s why it might be a deadly career investment.
Halloween dress for success
Just like your choice of regular work wear, your choice of costume can have an effect on your career aspirations. We’ve got a few tips and advice to share. (A while ago, we were interviewed by journalist Caitlin Crawshaw for an article on Halloween dress tips for the office. Click here to read the creepy article.)
Know your corporate culture and brand
People need to have some fun in the workplace and you don’t want to appear too stuffy or uptight. But you should understand your industry and client/management expectations.
Most retail and services like gyms, salons and spas are environments where you can attract or entertain customers with spooky decorations and costumes. But be careful at the office.
I’m too sexy for my… job
The corporate world is another story. Many adult costumes for men or women promote a sexual innuendo or sexually charged message. Our costume dress for success advice is – wear these at the expense of your career. If you are considering a complete costume, think less adult and more kid-like – cartoon characters, superheroes etc.
It can come back to haunt you
Props and masks have gotten so bloodcurdling realistic that you can inadvertently spook your clients. More conservative offices can still have some fun but the touches need to be less in-your-face, less gory and less sexy.
My lawyer is a vampire
Subtle touches such as Spock ears, vampire teeth, antennae, fake noses or decorated fingernails can work in a more staid office. They still allow you to get into the spirit of the growing Halloween craze without going over the top.
Trick-or-treat
Have some fun with Halloween at the office but remember your costume there is also a part of your professional brand. Zombies and “walkers” don’t have big career aspirations beyond devouring the competition.