[stupidcowmoo]

I'm starting work at a bank at the end of June and have no idea what's the dress code like in HK, hence would really appreciate help with the following so I won't look quite so out of place on my first day :

• Suits - only matched with shirts or alright with nice tops?
• Stockings with skirts? If so, dark or skin toned?
• Shoes - closed or slingbacks ok?
• Dresses - Are tailored dresses acceptable or should I stick to suits?

Btw, I'm just starting out as a graduate analyst and have never worked in HK before, so would appreciate some advice!

[KnowItAll]

dresscode @ office???

[greentea]

It depends on which bank you are working for. Also, your post and whether you need to meet the customers. But in general, the dresscode at bank should be quite formal in HK.

[peony]

I agree with Greentea. I work for a bank (a US bank - I actually don't think there is a difference among national origin), and the dress is very formal. In fact, I have also worked in banking in New York City and London, and the dress in Hong Kong is the most formal of the three. The colors of choice are overwhelming black, gray and occasionally navy. I have a dark brown silk pantsuit and I feel a bit conspicuous when I wear it.

Suits don't have to be matching. I see quite frilly skirts and dresses (all dark colors) with jackets. Skirt lengths are very conservative - highest seems to be just above the knee.

Slingback shoes are worn. Pantyhose is worn, mostly skintone,although I haven't lived here in the summer yet (in London and NYC pantyhose is often not worn in the summer - which is unlike other US cities).

I was also surprised that underneath these conservative suits, lowcut shirts/blouses are often worn. I rarely see sleeveless tops, but again, I haven't been here during the summer yet.

Btw, our office is absolutely freezing. I keep a pashmina and a sweater to layer on, despite high temperatures outside.

And dress is also formal for men here. I travel to Singapore often, and the dress there is so different - so informal for both women and men!