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While comfort and practicality are the most important considerations for tradies’ attire, a little attention to the way we dress can boost confidence and a sense of professionalism. Above all, industry professionals must prioritise function over fashion, but achieving both is certainly possible. Your clothes need to withstand tough working conditions. Speaking of, our nation’s […]
While comfort and practicality are the most important considerations for tradies’ attire, a little attention to the way we dress can boost confidence and a sense of professionalism.
Above all, industry professionals must prioritise function over fashion, but achieving both is certainly possible. Your clothes need to withstand tough working conditions. Speaking of, our nation’s weather can be four seasons in one day, so layering and preparing for the conditions to turn is key.
Going for breathable fabrics such as cotton, polyester, and blends will wick away moisture, leaving you feeling fresher for longer. Protecting your skin by wearing sunscreen is another outdoor work essential. Along with drinking plenty of water, eating well, and maintaining good hygiene, you’ll be feeling fresh and clean right until the tools are down.
Every tradie’s wardrobe should include some staple items. You can’t go wrong with some quality work pants; durable and comfortable pants with reinforced knees and pockets are worth investing in. On t-shirts, go for blends that can handle sweat and dirt. Further, a warm and waterproof jacket or three goes without saying.
Safety and comfort should be your top priorities when choosing sturdy work boots. Practical headwear follows the same mindset. Beyond a beanie or cap that can protect your head from the sun or cold, protecting your head on site is no laughing matter. WorkSafe says that “Protective clothing must be a suitable size and fit. It must also be reasonably comfortable to wear and be compatible with any other PPE or clothing workers are required to wear or use.
“PPE should only be used as a last line of defence after all other reasonably practicable actions have been taken to eliminate or minimise risks. Risks must be managed firstly by elimination or, if this is not reasonably practicable, through minimisation.” Remember, while looking good can boost confidence, safety and comfort should always come first.
On style, why not add a pop of colour with a bright t-shirt or accessory to add personality without compromising on practicality? You could even add patches or stickers to your workwear for a unique touch. If you wish, experiment more stealthily by layering different shades of the same colour for a stylish look. Any sort of forethought and cohesion to your look goes a long way, especially when trying to entice clients and managers.
There are a handful of dedicated workwear stores in New Zealand that offer a wide range of options specifically designed for tradespeople. Importantly, when shopping for workwear, prioritise comfort, durability, and fit. It’s worth investing in quality pieces that will last.
Tradies might not think that their clothes matter, as their function matters above all. However, how we present ourselves can have profound impacts on how we think about ourselves, and tradie fashion is not exempt from this rule. Whether you’re battling the elements or meeting clients, dress with pride and confidence. A well-presented tradie is a respected tradie.
