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Solvejg
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03 Jul 2012, 8:44 pm

I have recently got a job and it is in a call centre. In a few days I go in to sign my contract and be advised of my starting date. I have worked in an office environment when i was younger but that was at an accounting firm and i had to wear my school uniform due to it being a work experience thing through my studies. All my jobs in the past have all involved wearing a uniform. This has made things easy for me as I have no idea about clothing and fashion at all. I am strictly a jeans, and unisex t-shirt type person. I don't even notice what other people wear at the best of times unless their tshirt is cool. I am borderline trans and definately a total tomboy

I know on friday that I have to ask the dress code for the call centre and i am getting stressed over this. After googling I have discovered that the dress code can differ from casual to office casual with some even being traditional office wear. I don't know what each of these categories will entail for someone like myself. I will ask if I can have a copy of the office dress code including what is and isn't permissable.

Is this the point that I should bring up the fact I have social deficits surrounding clothing and don't understand basic fashion and will probably make huge faux-pax? Should i mention I have asperger's and makes this difficult for me? Should I mention I prefer to dress uni-sex and would like to have the men's dress code?

Or do I mention nothing and just suck it up and have a female friend take me shopping and feel really uncomphy and stressed just over clothing daily?



Bloodheart
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03 Jul 2012, 8:56 pm

If they aren't aware you have Asperger's I suggest not mentioning it, the thing is even if you do mention it they may be very unlikely to have enough understanding to see where you're troubles with this lay, they'd probably just pass you a copy of the dress code - you should get a general dress code (not gender specific) and as long as you fit into the criteria it doesn't matter if you dress feminine, masculine or unisex.

Being female the dress codes in these work environments tends to be a bit more relaxed - my offices were formal but I had no problem in black pants and a nice top (short-sleeved or long-sleeved off-the-shoulder, tight and fairly low-cut) or only occasionally I wore a shirt, where as the guys were required to wear suit pants, buttoned-up shirts, ties, and sometimes suit jackets. Many stores will have a section dedicated to suits, go in with a friend to help you and grab a few different black pants and white or black shirts (from women's and men's sections if you like) to see what looks okay and what you feel comfortable in.

When it comes to work I suggest that you dress UP rather than DOWN - a suit is better than casual wear for example...if you're anything like me you may end-up overdressing which isn't always ideal, however in a work environment dressing as your superiors (such as in a smart suit) can give a good impression.


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thewhitrbbit
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05 Jul 2012, 9:44 am

I wouldn't stress very much, your working in a call center, not a Milan runway show. :)

I would be careful of going at it over the dress code. You want to make a good impression.

When you go to sign your contact, look at what the girls wear. Ask a friend to go with you.

There are tons of ways you look good without spending a lot of money or having to be super feminine if that's not your style.

We are office casual where I work. Women tend to wear black pants and a shirt. Some wear knee length skirts, and women's polo shirts are popular. Pretty simple.

Black pants and a polo (if that's allowed) should be pretty easy to manage. :)



Robdemanc
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06 Jul 2012, 3:29 pm

Most offices I have worked the women usually wear a blouse (white or pale colour), a skirt or trousers. The trousers are not jeans they are like trousers that are worn as a suit. But most girls will wear a skirt. Some wear dresses but that is rare.

It is easier for men I think because we just have to wear trousers and a shirt.



Bunnynose
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08 Jul 2012, 2:09 am

Congratulations on your new job!



ooo
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30 Jul 2012, 11:59 pm

Solvejg wrote:
Is this the point that I should bring up the fact I have social deficits surrounding clothing and don't understand basic fashion and will probably make huge faux-pax? Should i mention I have asperger's and makes this difficult for me? Should I mention I prefer to dress uni-sex and would like to have the men's dress code?


Um, no, no, and no.

Wear slacks. No one says you have to wear a pink tutu. Khaki slacks, ironed black pants, etc. are office-appropriate.
Wear a shirt appropriate for any office. Button-collared shirts that are ironed, "nicer" fitted plain t-shirts, tasteful sweaters.
Nothing overly load or neon or casual or too short/tight.
It's none of their business or concern what gender preferences or developmental issues you have. Don't tell them.

Look at what other people in the office wear and mimic what they wear.