This day in age, it's all about the perfect shoe. Yes, the shoe. The shoe is ALWAYS the key to the outfit, at least it should be. It's that factor that makes your outfit POP.
But what about your heels in the workplace?
This day and age, us ladies are all about style, and what is trendy. However, when it comes to being a career woman, how high is too high of a heel?
Pulling your shoes off the shelf to go with your attire for your next morning interview, do you reach for the heels you wore last night to the club? Or do you pick something else? Hmmmm....
"That's Too High!"
So you reached for the heels you wore to the club last night. That tall, skyscraping, bright colored heel that's about 6", right? WRONG! In an article I read from, the new professional blog, while most offices do not state a particular heel size requirement, usually, anything above 4" is considered "inappropriate" for the office.
Heels send out various messages in the setting you're wearing them. While the bright colored 6" pump signifies you're a trendsetter and you want others attention, it is not necessarily the best fit for the workplace. You'll be attracting attention, but not the kind you're looking for.
While this heel represents a night on the town, it also represents unprofessional, unqualified and not ready for a position in the office. While avoiding heels that are above 4", definitely avoid pumps with embellishments! While you want the employer to notice you for skills and work ethic, you do NOT want your rhinestones, buckles, ruffles, flashing lights, whatever it is, to steal the show!
However, if you just can't let go of the high heel... I would suggest a slightly chunky heel? However, in my opinion, I also agree with anything being over 4" as "too high" for a workplace heel.
Pick Your Poison
Caphillstyle.com |
Most of women in this generation, especially myself, dread the words "kitten heels". Honestly, I avoid them at all lengths possible. If I were the creator of the dress code, they would be banned, but that's just me.
Don't worry ladies! Kitten heels are NOT mandatory.
If you're not much of a heel wearer, then they might be the perfect fit for you. However, most heel queens, should stay around the 3" - 4" range to maintain professionalism, anything higher gets the thumbs up for "after hours".
When it comes to choosing your heels for work, I have heard the phrase from managers alike:
"If you have to question if it's good enough for the workplace... Don't wear it".
"Perfect!"
So you changed your mind and decided to go for something else? GOOD CHOICE!
For most employers, this particular heel is perfect for the workplace. It's modest color (usually blacks, tans/nudes) doesn't say too much, or it's texture (it's recommended by professionals to stick with a leather/patent leather texture), and it's size (4" or less) says just enough.
I attended a "How to Dress for the Job" seminar a year or so ago, and another point brought up was whether the heel should be open or closed toe for your interview.
I know it's summertime ladies, and it's hot. I love this type of style, and it kills me to say it, but...
WE MUST STAY AWAY FROM OPEN-TOED HEELS!!!!!
This may be something we could possibly get away with once we land the job, but it definitely is not going to fly for the interview. Showing your toes resemble "personal" to some employers, and are mostly considered "unprofessional" for the office.
What do you think? Do you think the "higher the heel, the better"? BLAB it to us!