If you've been carefully curating your work wardrobe but still feel like your colleagues perceive you as 'junior', your shoes might be part of the problem.
Natalie Timperio, a corporate communications professional with over a decade of experience, went viral on TikTok after sharing her advice on how footwear can subtly influence workplace perception. In the video, she explains that while a blazer, tailored trousers, or a crisp blouse can signal professionalism, your shoes are what complete the message.
'Within a corporate work setting, I find that most women tend to focus on blazers, trousers, et cetera, but your shoes are what finish the signal', Timperio said. She added that she approaches getting dressed 'like a strategy' and views footwear as a key part of career optics.
@nearlynatalie If you’re perceived as junior at work, shoes might be the signal. From ballet flats to chunky loafers, your footwear tells the story before you even speak #officefashion #workwardrobe #corporatefashion #womenincorporate ♬ original sound - Natalie Diana
Shoes That May Read As 'Junior'
Timperio identified a number of shoe styles she calls 'junior signalling shoes', which can unintentionally suggest a more entry-level status. These include:
- Ultra ballet-core flats, often delicate and rounded;
- Chunky loafers worn with visible socks;
- Overly delicate heels, and;
- Soft, slipper-style footwear, such as UGGs.
'Shoes such as these can read more junior because they're closely associated with student or trend-driven fashion', she explained. 'Now some of these might be intentional fashion choices because you're somebody who prioritises personal style. But remember, in corporate, you can typically be perceived as stylish or competent—but not often both.'
Why Shoes Matter in the Workplace
While footwear alone won't prevent someone from earning a promotion — performance, work ethic, and interpersonal skills are far more important — Timperio emphasised that appearance still plays a role.
'Most people instinctively choose their most polished outfit when dressing for a job interview', she said. 'They want to create a strong first impression. While experience does the heavy lifting, appearance reinforces that impression. The same principle applies to daily workwear. Shoe choices can subtly support the message that someone is polished, capable, and ready for greater responsibility.'
Footwear That Signals Seniority And Professionalism
Timperio recommends shoes with structure, clean lines, and polished materials, which tend to communicate authority and confidence. Examples include:
- Closed-toe flats
- Classic leather loafers
- Pointed kitten heels
- Ankle boots with moderate heels
'These types of shoes typically have a defined shape and medium-weight silhouette', she explained. 'That structure can bring a sense of order to an outfit, which aligns with perceived professionalism in corporate environments.'
Footwear That Signals Seniority and Professionalism
Timperio recommends shoes with structure, clean lines, and polished materials, which tend to communicate authority and confidence. Examples include: closed-toe flats, classic leather loafers, pointed kitten heels, and ankle boots with moderate heels.
'These types of shoes typically have a defined shape and medium-weight silhouette', she explained. 'That structure can bring a sense of order to an outfit, which aligns with perceived professionalism in corporate environments.'
Work Bags: The Finishing Touch for a Polished Look
It's not just shoes that signal seniority—your work bag plays a big role in perception. Timperio explains that structured leather bags with minimal hardware convey experience and authority, while overstuffed or slouchy totes with visible clutter often read as entry-level.
'Entry-level professionals tend to carry overstuffed totes in slouchy shapes with visible clutter', she said. 'It's meant to be neat, but it can actually look sloppy.'
'Mid-level employees usually choose something more structured — medium hardware, understated branding — which signals both style and competence.'
Her bottom line: structure signals authority; slouchy signals transition. A well-chosen bag can subtly reinforce the message that you're polished, capable, and ready for more responsibility.
Balancing Style And Professionalism
Timperio acknowledges that modern office fashion has become increasingly experimental. Trends like the 'office siren' look, which peaked on TikTok in 2024, encouraged crop tops, mini skirts, and open-toe shoes for work. While these ensembles made waves online, they also reignited debates about what's appropriate in professional settings.
Human resources expert Sunny Lena highlighted the controversy in a viral TikTok video that evaluated such outfits. Her video, which received more than 150,000 likes, illustrated how some trends may risk sending the wrong signal about professionalism—a point that reinforces Timperio's advice on polished footwear and bags.
Lastly, footwear, and accessories are just one element of a professional image, but they can make a subtle difference in how others perceive competence and readiness for promotion. Timperio's takeaway: if you want to be seen as experienced and capable, choose shoes and bags that communicate structure, polish, and authority—and leave the ultra-trendy, delicate, or slipper-like styles for off-duty moments.
@sunnylenak Would you get in trouble over your office siren fit? #greenscreen #officesiren #officelife #corporate #corporatelife #officefashion #humanresources #hr #hrtiktok ♬ original sound - Sunny Lena 🌞
