I moved from the UK to Thailand in 2003 for work and I would advise others not to approach it the same way I did. I didn't do any research and had no idea what attire was appropriate for working in Bangkok.
Now, after leading teams in five cities – London, Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong and Sydney – I've learned a thing or two about adapting my wardrobe to a new place.
Here are three tips not only for dressing appropriately, but also for staying comfortable, making new friends and emphasizing your style.
Read also in BUSINESS INSIDER
Learn about the cultural nuances of a given country
I've always wanted to present myself professionally and appropriately, and that means different things in different countries.
When I lived in Bangkok in the early 2000s, the strappy tops that were fashionable in London were frowned upon. I was very careful not to expose my shoulders or upper arms.
Wearing black was frowned upon because it is associated with death and bad luck. I worked with a Thai woman who loved black and wore it anyway. If you're a local, it's probably easier to break norms and push boundaries.
As a foreigner, I always want to be seen as a person worthy of respect and not offend anyone. Therefore, it is better to be careful.
If you're going to a Muslim-majority country like Indonesia or Malaysia, check the dress code because the last thing you want is to draw negative attention to yourself when you first start in a new place.
There wasn't much information available in 2003, but today you can find plenty of it online. Even if norms have changed, it's worth doing some research.
See also: I agreed to a pay cut to be able to live more peacefully. No one prepared me for what came next
Pay attention to the climate
In Southeast Asia, I was often more concerned about the weather than cultural norms.
During the rainy season in Bangkok, the city flooded. The water was sometimes knee-deep, and walking was easier than driving or taking public transportation. This is why I always had a spare pair of flip-flops with me and avoided wearing trousers or jeans.
In tropical cities like Singapore and Bangkok, I wore light, airy dresses that could easily be styled more elegant or casual.
In Singapore it is very hot outside and sometimes freezing inside due to the air conditioning. In Thailand, the higher the position, the colder the office. As a senior editor, my office was downright icy.
I quickly learned that it's a good idea to always have a light jacket or scarf with you.
At the same time, I believe that the heat is not an excuse for inappropriate clothing.
In Singapore, I had an employee who came to the office wearing shorts and tank tops, and I had to have an awkward conversation about respect for co-workers.
Don't be afraid of statement pieces and buy local
I love clothes and fashion – it's a form of self-expression. How you dress can communicate a lot and be a great conversation starter.
If I'm meeting someone for the first time and they're wearing something interesting, this is the best way to start a conversation.
“Great shoes”, “I love that dress” or “We're wearing the same thing” are great ways to break the ice.
I'm never afraid to wear statement pieces.
One way is to use designs by local designers. When I worked for a publishing house in Bangkok, editors and designers often came from wealthy backgrounds and wore high-end clothes.
People wore designer clothes and were invited to fashion shows, but I couldn't afford it.
That's why I turned to local designers. In the early 2000s, Bangkok had a burgeoning local fashion scene, which allowed me to look stylish without spending a fortune. I liked it very much.
The above text is a translation from American edition of Business Insider
