Oct 22, 2025

How to Dress Professionally While Trans

Everything you need to know about safety, comfort, and achieving your ideal look at work

“Professionalism” is a funny word. On the surface, it sounds neutral, a standard everyone can strive for. But in reality, professionalism has long been shaped by white supremacy, patriarchy, and the gender binary. For many transgender and gender-diverse people, it’s not just about “what to wear to work.” It’s about survival.

As writer Jacob Tobia puts it: “For transgender and gender nonconforming people like myself, the question of what to wear to work becomes an exhausting question of identity and of survival. For us, the question changes from ‘how do I present my best self at work?’ to ‘can I present my best self at work?’”

At Origami Customs, we know this struggle deeply. Clothing is personal, and when the world expects you to fit into rigid boxes, showing up authentically can feel like a radical act. So today, we’re exploring how to express your gender in professional settings safely, comfortably, and confidently.

Tranfeminine person in a business dress with text that reads, "“Professionalism is a funny term, because it masquerades as neutral despite being loaded with immense oppression. As a concept, professionalism is racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, classist, imperialist and so much more – and yet people act like professionalism is non-political.” -Jacob Tobia"

The Problem with “Professionalism”

Professionalism often pretends to be about “standards” (neat hair, tidy clothes, neutral tones), but those standards were built for a very narrow group of people. Dress codes, historically, have enforced conformity and maintained social hierarchies. They reward those who fit traditional expectations of masculinity, thinness, whiteness, and able-bodiedness.

For trans and gender-diverse people, that means we’re often pressured to perform gender in ways that feel false or unsafe. Think of the difference between “men’s” and “women’s” uniforms for airline staff or corporate suits. One emphasizes sharp lines and broad shoulders; the other highlights curves and delicacy.

But what if professionalism wasn’t about fitting into someone else’s mold? What if it were about expressing competence and authenticity, about showing up in clothing that helps you feel affirmed, focused, and free?

Image of transgender woman laughing with text that says, "using gender gear safely"

Gender-Affirming Clothing 101: Safety First

Before we talk about professional style, let’s start with safety. Gender-affirming clothing can include binders, gaffs, packers, shapewear, tape, wigs, prosthetics, and other items that help people align their appearance with their identity.

These tools are powerful, but they should never come at the expense of your well-being.

Binding Safely

Binders can create a flatter chest under work shirts or blouses, but they also put pressure on your ribs, back, and shoulders. Make sure your binder fits properly, isn’t painful after a full day, and allows you to breathe comfortably. Take breaks when you can, and stretch your shoulders at the end of the day — especially if you’re sitting at a desk for long hours. (See our giant Guide to Binding to learn all about binding!)

Tucking and Gaffs

For those who tuck, gaffs offer a safe, comfortable solution for daily wear. Choose breathable mesh for long workdays and avoid tight fits when sitting for extended periods. A high-waist gaff can act as both shapewear and a smoothing garment under fitted pants or skirts, while a thong style can reduce visible lines under slacks or dresses. (Check out our full Tucking and Gaffing Guide for safety tips!)

Tape

Tape can be used for both binding and tucking, but it’s not always a great choice for an eight-hour workday. Save it for shorter events or special occasions, like office parties or formal functions. Always test a small patch of skin first and never use household tape, only medical-grade or kinesiology tape.

Above all, listen to your body. Comfort is not a luxury; it’s an essential part of showing up as your best self.

Transmasculine person in a binder smiling with text that says' "Finding Your Authentic Style."

Navigating Professional Spaces as a Gender-Diverse Person

Even in progressive workplaces, gender expression can feel complicated. Some people can safely dress however they want, while others must weigh the risks of being visibly gender-nonconforming.

If you need or want to express your gender more subtly, there are creative ways to do so:

Underthings: Gender-affirming underwear, binders, or gaffs can provide confidence even when your outer layers are more neutral.
Accessories: Pins, pronoun badges, and small pride symbols can signal your identity to those who understand.
Color and texture: Professional doesn’t have to mean bland. Experiment with color, prints, or layering to express your personality.

Remember, professionalism isn’t just about appearance. It’s about presence, respect, and self-assurance. When you feel affirmed, that confidence shines through.

Slide with two gender-diverse people, with text that says, Choosing proportions: what makes something appear “masc” or “femme” “Femme”- goal of slimming the waist, minimizing height, tight on the hips/stomach, higher rise, minimizing shoulders “Masc”- boxy, made for shoulders to appear wider, loose through the waist, does not accentuate bum and legs, lower rise on pants"

Dressing Professionally for Your Body and Gender Expression

Building a wardrobe that reflects your gender while meeting workplace expectations takes some experimentation. Here are a few ways to approach it:

Dressing For More Feminine Expression:

Emphasize the waistline with A-line skirts or high-rise pants.
Choose tops with darts or tucks to create shape.
Look for deep V-necks or wrap styles instead of wide, straight necklines.
Experiment with fluid fabrics that move with you.

Dressing For More Masculine Expression:

Aim for structure like boxy shirts, straight-cut jackets, and tailored fits.
Raglan or structured sleeves can broaden the shoulders.
Keep shirt lengths short enough to hit at the belt.
Layer a loose button-up over a fitted tee for a classic look.

For Larger or Disabled Bodies:

Finding clothes that fit well and affirm your gender can be challenging when mainstream brands ignore your body. That’s why custom-fit options, like those we make at Origami Customs, exist to celebrate every shape, size, and gender expression.

Slide that says' "Sometimes when choosing clothing doesn’t go far enough to allow us to feel like we’re presenting as the “right”gender”, accessories can go a long way to signal how we want to be seen! Certain accessories, like dangly earring or a delicate chain with a pendant, have historically been seen as feminine (of course, we’re queering all that now!) Things like chunky watches, handkerchiefs, hats and sunglasses can help to masculinize a look Accessories can “elevate” a look to a level of professionalism required some some workplaces Before you go and invest in a whole new wardrobe, using these pieces (which are often cheaper) can help signal how you want to present"

The Power of Accessories in Gender Expression

Accessories can be a lifesaver when you’re testing the waters of gender expression at work. A pair of statement earrings, a pendant necklace, or a delicate bracelet can soften a look; a bold watch, cufflinks, or hat can bring masculine energy.

These small pieces can also elevate your outfit to meet traditional professional standards, without forcing you into gendered uniforms. Think of them as tools of self-expression, signalling your authenticity even within restrictive environments.

And the best part? You can start small. No need to overhaul your whole wardrobe.

Slide with a group of transgender people with text that says, "“Trans fashion inspo” vs. just straight fashion inspo and advice Following trans brands on social media Using the pinboard in the resources at the end Create a mood board for your own vision for your creative fashion future See if you can see yourself reflected by any of the trans people who are represented Are there brands that you feel cater to your experience/identity"

Find Fashion Inspiration from the Trans Community

You don’t have to navigate gendered fashion alone. The internet is full of incredible trans and nonbinary creators sharing outfit ideas, styling hacks, and affirming content. Follow trans-led brands and designers who inspire you.

Create a mood board of looks that make you feel seen. Whether it’s clean-cut corporate, artsy-casual, or powerfully androgynous. Explore how others use fashion to tell their stories. You deserve to see yourself reflected in your inspirations.

Two images of gender diverse people in traditional office clothing with text that says, "what do these two looks signal to you?"

Redefining Professionalism

As artist Alok Vaid-Menon says, “Gender neutrality is not the death of fashion; it is the renaissance of fashion.”

Gender-diverse people are leading that renaissance. Pushing back against old binaries and redefining what professionalism can look like. Every outfit that balances authenticity and safety is an act of quiet rebellion, creativity, and self-love.

Clothing doesn’t determine your gender identity. But choosing what feels right for your body and your work life can help you feel more aligned, empowered, and seen.

image of a group of gender diverse and transgender people with text that says, "Clothing does not determine one’s gender identity. Although we are still governed by implicit gender dichotomies and biases, TGD people are finding ways to subvert “professionalism” through artistic expression As artist and designer Alok Vaid-Menon said, “Gender neutrality is not the death of fashion, it is the renaissance of fashion.” Using gender affirmation tools alongside creative styling allows us to perform our safe/work presenting gender while still being true to ourselves and pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a TGD person in the work world"

Showing Up as Your Most Affirmed Self

Professionalism shouldn’t mean erasure. It should mean presence, the freedom to exist fully as yourself while feeling comfortable and respected.

Whether that means wearing a binder under your button-up, queering your office wardrobe with bold prints, or accessorizing with pride, you deserve to feel affirmed in every space you enter.

At Origami Customs, we design gender-affirming garments that move with you through every part of life, from the office to the dance floor and everywhere in between. Because your expression is professional, your authenticity is powerful, and your body is worthy of comfort and care.

Explore our custom-fit, gender-affirming garments and discover how to show up at work as your most affirmed self.