Gen Z professionals are navigating the nuances of office attire, and according to stylist Liz Teich, the most common style misstep they’re making revolves around their choice of footwear.
Teich, a New York-based stylist, highlighted that many young professionals are pairing their work outfits with white Nike Air Force 1 sneakers, a trend she suggests they should reconsider if they aim to make a favorable impression in the workplace.
In an interview with Business Insider, Teich emphasized the shift towards more casual footwear since the onset of the pandemic and the prevalence of remote work. Consequently, there’s uncertainty regarding appropriate office shoe attire.
While classic pumps are a fail-safe option, Teich acknowledges that they may not align with the ambiance of every workplace. Instead, she recommends Gen Z women opt for loafers, booties, or fashion-forward sneakers with a retro flair, which exude a polished appearance.
For Gen Z men, Teich suggests dress shoes, boots, or white court sneakers from brands like Veja, Common Projects, and Nisolo. Additionally, Adidas Stan Smiths, Gazelles, and Sambas are touted as excellent choices.
Beyond selecting the right footwear, Teich underscores the importance of maintaining shoe cleanliness, a detail often overlooked by younger generations. She emphasizes that dirty shoes can reflect poorly on one’s professional image in the office.
Teich advises regular maintenance, including visiting a cobbler for repairs or polishing dress shoes and investing in cleaning products like magic erasers or shoe cleaners for sneakers. Revitalizing old sneakers can be achieved by swapping out laces or employing bleaching techniques.
Amidst criticisms of inappropriate workwear among Gen Z workers, including instances of junior employees donning crop tops, Teich and corporate stylist Maree Ellard have previously offered guidance. Their advice includes prioritizing modest attire, opting for quality clothing over fast fashion, and minimizing flashy designer logos to maintain professionalism in the workplace.
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