The tip library
Everything we know about dressing well for work, in short and usable pieces. Want to see the looks instead? Browse all 30 outfits.
- Planning
Build a five-piece week
Pick two bottoms, two tops and one jacket that all work together on Sunday evening. You get five outfits with zero morning decisions.
- Fit
Fit beats price every time
A R600 blazer tailored at the shoulders and sleeve looks better than an R6 000 one straight off the rail. Budget for alterations.
- Etiquette
Know your office dress code
Business formal means suiting. Business casual means tailored separates without a tie. Smart casual allows denim and clean sneakers. Dress one level up when in doubt.
- Planning
Dress for the meeting, not the day
Check your calendar first. If a client or exec is in the diary, the outfit should be built around that hour, not the other 8.
- Mood
Low-energy mornings need a uniform
Keep one no-fail outfit permanently ready. On heavy days you wear it, look sharp, and spend zero decision energy.
- Colour
Three colours, maximum
Two neutrals and one accent is the formula. Beyond three colours, an outfit starts to compete with itself.
- Weather
Dressing for South African heat
Cotton, linen blends and unlined jackets. Keep a spare shirt at your desk from October to February.
- Details
Shoes and bag do the talking
Polished shoes and a structured bag lift even the simplest outfit. Scuffed shoes undo an entire suit.
- Etiquette
Casual Friday still has rules
Dark denim, no rips, closed shoes, and always a collar or a structured layer. Friday is relaxed, not off-duty.
- Care
Care makes clothes last
Steam instead of ironing where you can, rest suits a day between wears, and use shoe trees. Your wardrobe lasts years longer.