These tips are provided as a basic guide to good dressing for new members of the work force covering what is appropriate for work with most companies. Some companies will provide you with uniforms and a strict dress code which will detail everything, from the length of your skirt to the length of your weave.

Some work environments are more formal, and others more relaxed; but most employers want their employees to feel comfortable and attractive while presenting the best possible image of the company. Even on a limited budget, with careful planning and sensible spending, you can create an attractive and practical wardrobe.

The key to looking good is clean, well-fitting clothing and shoes, in classic styles, and colours that give you that extra boost

SHOES
First rule - Wear your size. Two (2) pairs - black and one other will usually suffice. Best buy - leather. Sneakers are work shoes for pro-athletes and pickpockets. Alternate shoes; try not to wear the same pair two days in a row. Leather needs 24 hours to recover and this way your shoes will last longer. Give them a thorough cleaning and polish regularly.

BELTS
For men, the age-old guide is for the belt to be the same color as the shoes. The color of the pants will guide you in this. Two colors are essential - black and dark brown. When cracked or worn, they should be discarded

For women, the belt should not cut you in half. It should add to your outfit, not become the focal point. The width should be complimentary to your figure.

STOCKINGS
If you wear stockings ensure that they are the correct size and a color that flatters you or is complimentary to your outfit. Stockings that have runs in them must be discarded or used for other purposes.

SOCKS
White socks are not suitable for work unless you are a tennis instructor. The color of your socks should match/complement your pants. When they get stretched out, discard them as they will bunch up around your ankles.

PANTS
Dark colours are a good choice as you can team them with a variety of colours and prints. The key is to ensure that your pants fit you well. Treat yourself to a pair from a first rate tailor or seamstress and use that fit as a future guide. Avoid fads if you want to wear the pants for more than a few months.

SKIRTS
They should not be too short; you should have enough to sit on if you were going to sit on an icy cold chair. Splits should not show us everything either. Colours - let the rainbow be your guide, but essentials are black, navy blue and beige or red. These will match almost any colour top you select. Choose a classic style over a trendy one for the office.

BLOUSES
Remember this is the office; some styles are for partying and informal occasions. Sheer fabrics, shiny fabrics, richly embroidered fabrics and plunging necklines are not appropriate. Keep the colour and fabric of your pants or skirts (and jackets) in mind when shopping for tops.

SHIRTS
Choose colours/patterns that complement or match the pants you have. It is a growing trend, but short sleeves and ties are not compatible. Long or short sleeves, with or without collars, are fine depending on your environment. Look around and see what your co-workers are wearing.

DRESSES
The style should flatter your figure. The style, fabric and colour should not be too short, nor splits too high. Tight dresses are not appropriate.

JEWELLERY
For the office, the sedate look is preferred.

A watch is essential. One that is easy to read is ideal.

Earrings should not dangle or be oversized. The color and material should compliment your outfit and you.

Chains, one, maximum two, and watch the sizes if you have decided on two.

Men please do not skip this part. Rings, one on each finger is NOT looked at favorably in a work setting. Rings should flatter your hands; remember that they are bringing attention to that part to your body so nails must be properly manicured. A good manicure includes cutting away the excess cuticle, and clipping and filing your nails evenly. Chipped nails and polish are unsightly.

HANDBAGS
Your handbag should be businesslike in its appearance. Not too big - don't carry all your earthly possessions in it. The color should be understated. As with shoes, leather will serve you best. If the one you like is not leather, examine: The stitching - will it endure daily wear and tear? The material - will fit fray, peel or crack with daily use? Is the style intended for daily or occasional use?

BRIEFCASES
The color should be understated, the size should not overpower your frame and it should have compartments that facilitate easy carriage of your documents.

PERFUMES AND COLOGNES
Avoid wearing strong fragrances in the office and don't bathe in the one you have selected. Remember the office is a closed space. Not everyone will enjoy the scent you have selected and as sinusitis and allergies are common, you must think of your neighbour.

PERSONAL GROOMING
A large part of how you are perceived has to do with how you look, but do remember that the other senses also play a part. You can influence what people think of you and how they will react to you.

Some things are difficult to say, like informing someone that their deodorant failed or telling someone about their persistent bad breath. Please spare others these difficult tasks by ensuring that you take a proper bath before going to work. Use a deodorant, not a cologne or perfume. Those who have to smell you know the difference. Brush your teeth and floss correctly. Ask your dentist how to do this.

One hand of long nails and one hand with short nails is not considered good grooming. If you polish your nails, do all of them. Bright colours show chips faster, if you choose a bright colour you must be prepared to maintain the manicure with touch-ups.

HAIR - A smart hairstyle makes a great difference to one's appearance. Regular washing and conditioning is vital to healthy looking hair.

SKIN - A regular cleansing routine is vital for all. If you work in reception, sales, in one-on-one settings or where clients must get a good, long, close-up look at you everyday - work on getting rid of the acne and spots. Books and/or a dermatologist can provide the answers to the questions you may have.

TEETH - Don't neglect this aspect of your appearance. If you have not seen the dentist in the last six months, make an appointment today. If your breath tends to go funky quickly, get special advice. Take a toothbrush to work if you must.

DIET AND EXERCISE - You want to be as healthy as you can be for work and for play, so make regular exercise and a sensible, balanced diet part of your life's routine. This will make you look and feel good too.