With all the different labels put to work outfits: what means what? Business casual, business chic, or just business?

So, you are ready to begin your new job!  But wait -- are you prepared to dress for work five days a week?  It is a daunting task to go from college-gear sweatshirts, jeans, and sneakers to a professional environment where, let's be honest, appearance is important.

An even more difficult task is understanding the company's dress code: what does casual really mean? You might think that you dress "casually" every day, but that does not mean you should wear all these clothes to work. The best piece of advice I could give you is to take cues from other people at the workplace. It is always better to be slightly over-dressed on your first day than underdressed. Take cues from what you saw when you went in for your interview and also the general feel of the company. If you come too dressed up the first day, you can always tone down after, it would be worse if you wear wearing a polo, and everyone else had on business suits.

Another important piece of advice is to understand that you are representing the company, and especially if you work with clients, you need to project professionalism. Although the desire to be yourself and express your individuality is understandable, it is not always possible to do this at work. You have your after-work hours and the weekend to really be you, but at work it is sometimes necessary to tone down "you." Because, as much as I would like to wear my comfy thermal and sweatpants to work (because this really is me!) it might attract attention in a negative way.

Also, please do not be a stereotype. This means guys, there is no reason to use *all* that hair gel! and girls, please don't go for the "Latina red" clothing with prominent cleavage! What you can do if you are passionate about your culture, is infuse it subtly. A beautiful necklace, or a bright scarf.

Another rule of thumb that is not always stated on dress codes is restraint regarding jewelry, makeup, and perfume or cologne. Jewelry should be kept to a minimum. For example, if you usually wear four necklaces, pare down to one for the office. Similarily, those who wear ten rings should tone down the amount as well. Big earrings (or nameplate anything) should not be worn to work. Makeup should be kept clean and professional, this means no bright blue, green, purple, or glitter. I know this may seem to limit your individuality, but it really makes you look more professional and forces others to take you more seriously.

Dressing professionally and with class does not mean that you have to spend a ridiculous amount of money on clothing. What is most important is that your clothing fit correctly. So guys, please tailor your pants, no peeking boxers, not too baggy! And girls, if the pant leg is a little bit too long, make good friends with the local Korean tailors (they're the best!). Also it is important that your clothing be ironed and clean. Another tip: if you think what you're wearing is questionable: it probably is!

Casual Tips:
If your company keeps a casual dress code, this does not mean you should wear whatever is comfortable. This is not a free for all! Anything that you would wear running errands, working out, going to the club, or hanging around the house is not appropriate. Clothing that shows too much cleavage, back, chest, feet, stomach, leg or underwear is not okay.  Be careful if your clothing has text on it: if it could be controversial, save it for home.  Same goes for prominent logos.

What is good about a casual workplace is that just about everything else is tolerated (within reason). Your employer wants you to be comfortable in the workplace!

Business Casual Tips:
Take all the do-nots for casual and add to it! Slacks (such as Dockers), pants, and suitpants are accepted, that means no jeans, baggy cottonpants, leggings, etc. For women, casual dresses and skirts with which you can comfortably sit without showing too much are appropriate. Button down tops are the norm and women often wear blouses. T-shirts are no longer appropriate.

Business Attire tips:
This can often be the strictest, expecially in conservative industries such as finance and law.  Don't be surprised to be asked to observe guidelines laid out by the company.  Usually this means dark suits, tailored shirts and ties for men.  Facial hair may only be an option for senior partners.  For women, panty hose is required. Shoes must be no higher than 2-inch heels, and show no toes. Sleeveless tops are not okay. Sometimes, hair must be pulled back.  For men and women,  manicures must be neat and restrained, and tattoos and piercings should not be visible.

Got any stories, suggestions, or rants about the dress code at your workplace?  Share them, en tu blog!