The Head Office Code: Etiquette, Fits, and First Impressions (HOW-TO GUIDE FOR EXCURSIONS)
WORDS BY NFC STUDENT, JANE HARRIS
Only ten students, two weeks of classes, and one iconic destination: RUSSH Magazine. Being selected for NFC's first head office tour was the ultimate deep dive into the world of fashion media. The experience was incredible, but the pressure to leave a professional mark was real. To help you navigate your next excursion with confidence, I’ve broken down everything I learned about etiquette, outfits, and the art of the first impression.
THE LEAD-UP
The days leading up to a head office excursion are usually a blur of outfit planning and "is this actually happening?" group chats. But once the initial buzz of being selected for the RUSSH tour settled, I knew I needed to pivot from fan-girl to professional.
Even though I was only two weeks into my course at NFC, I felt a sense of quiet confidence walking into a corporate environment. Having a job working within a major national head office, I’ve seen firsthand how these spaces operate. I knew that while the fashion industry feels like a different world, the "Head Office Code" remains the same: professionalism is the universal language.
To make sure I was ready to represent both myself and the college, I focused on three key areas to prepare myself for the day:
The Deep Dive: I didn’t just look at the latest RUSSH Instagram posts; I researched their recent digital covers, their specific aesthetic "DNA," and the names of the key editors. Knowing the brand’s current direction meant I could engage in meaningful ways if the opportunity arose.
The Professional Mindset: I drew on my past experience in corporate environments to remind myself that while the setting is impressive, it’s still a workplace. My goal was to be observant, respectful of the flow of the office, and ready to contribute if called upon.
The "First Impression" Audit: I spent time thinking about how to translate my personal style into a look that felt authentic to me but respectful of the magazine’s high-fashion atmosphere. Confidence starts with feeling like you belong in the room before you even say a word.
Preparation isn't just about calming your nerves; it’s about creating the space for you to actually enjoy the experience once you step through those doors.
THE OUTFIT
We all know the frantic "what do I wear?" text that hits the group chat the second a tour is confirmed. While it’s tempting to overdress, the real secret to a head office excursion is brand alignment. You want to look like you already belong on their team.
For a publication like RUSSH, the aesthetic is famously effortless, raw, and cool. They aren't about trend-chasing; they are about elevated basics. Think of it as "refined minimalism."
TAPPING INTO THE BRAND DNA
Before you even open your wardrobe, do a quick audit of the company’s recent Shoots or Staff Style features.
For RUSSH: It’s all about the silhouette and the quality of the fabric.
The Hero Piece: You truly cannot go wrong with a crisp, oversized button-up. Whether it’s tucked into tailored trousers or layered over a silk maxi, it’s the pinnacle of "office-ready but editorial."
The Balance: Aim for that sweet spot between corporate structure and creative flair. Think polished loafers, a well-cut blazer, and understated jewelry.
STYLE STRATEGY
The goal isn't to cosplay as the brand, but to translate their "essence" through your own personal style. If you’re visiting a high-glamour PR agency, you might lean into sharper tailoring. For a creative house like RUSSH, lean into the "undone" chic.
Pro Tip: If you feel confident in what you’re wearing, that energy translates into how you carry yourself in the meeting room. Dress for the job you want, but make sure you can actually walk in the shoes!
If you’re staring at your wardrobe wondering where to start, click through to my Pinterest board for a visual guide on mastering elevated basics and 'Head Office' chic.
THE IMPRESSION
A head office isn’t just a beautiful space; it’s a powerhouse of productivity. Your goal is to be a seamless addition to that environment, not a distraction. Having experience in corporate head office settings before starting at NFC, I’ve learned that the smallest details often leave the loudest impressions.
MASTER THE “PROFESSIONAL PRESENCE”
Read the Room: Every office has a "frequency." Some are quiet and focused; others are buzzing with creative chaos. Take a second to observe the energy and match it. At RUSSH, the vibe is cool and composed—your presence should reflect that.
The "Invisible" Rule: When you’re walking through the rows of desks, remember that people are hitting deadlines. Keep your voice at a respectful level, stay with the group, and avoid leaning on desks or touching products unless invited to.
Eye Contact & The "Hello": If you pass a staff member in the hall or the kitchen, a polite smile and a brief "hello" go a long way. It shows you’re confident and aware of your surroundings.
THE ART OF THE QUESTION
Don’t just be a spectator; be a participant. The best way to move from "student" to "future peer" is through thoughtful, targeted questions. During our time at RUSSH, I made sure to tailor my curiosity to each department we visited.
To the Editorial Team: While chatting with the writers, I wanted to understand the practicalities of the craft. I asked: "What kind of skills would you say are critical for working in an environment like this?" It’s a simple question that shows you’re already thinking about how to bridge the gap between college and the industry.
In the Design Studio: When we stopped by the graphic design department, I was lucky enough to stand by Aleks while she worked on a layout for the upcoming 'Home' issue. Recognizing the software and the specific project made it personal. I asked her: "Aleks, I'm curious to know more about what you're working on here with InDesign?" Addressing someone by name and showing interest in their specific workflow is the ultimate way to build rapport.
With the Partnerships Team: I noticed that the business side of the magazine was a melting pot of experiences. I asked the team: "You all seem to have very different backgrounds career-wise; can you go into more detail on how each of you ended up on the RUSSH partnerships team?" This opened up the door for the three of them to give us some really great career insight, I felt very inspired knowing how unique their individual stories were.
DIGITAL & SPACIAL ETIQUETTE
Respect the Workflow: When you’re at someone’s desk, like I was with Aleks, be mindful of their space. Observe, but don't crowd the screen.
The "Behind the Scenes" Rule: We all want that content, but always ask before filming or taking photos. Some projects (like that Home issue!) are top-secret until they hit the shelves.
Master the "Quiet Buzz": It’s natural to want to whisper to your friends about how cool the office is, but remember that a head office is a place of deep focus. Keep your group’s energy high but your volume low; being a "seamless addition" to the room is exactly how you get invited back.
ENGAGEMENT IS EVERYTHING
The Power of the Question: Avoid asking things that a quick Google search could answer. Instead, ask about their creative process or how they stay inspired during a busy production cycle. It shows you’re thinking like an industry peer.
The "Active Observer" Mindset: Engagement isn’t just about talking; it’s about showing you’re tuned in. When I was standing by Aleks' desk while she worked on the Home issue, I didn't just watch—I asked her specifically about her work in InDesign. By referencing the software and the project by name, you demonstrate that you’re paying attention to the technical reality of their day-to-day.
The Follow-Up: If someone takes the time to speak with you, make sure to thank them by name. A little gratitude is the ultimate "Head Office Code" secret.
THE FINAL THOUGHTS
Leaving the RUSSH head office, the air in the lobby was different than it was on the way up. The "thrumming excitement" had shifted into something more grounded: a real, tangible sense of where our careers could go.
While the aesthetic and the iconic names are what get us through the door, it’s the Head Office Code—the preparation, the presence, and the genuine curiosity—that keeps that door open. My first excursion taught me that as NFC students, we aren’t just observers of the industry; we are already a part of it.
Whether you’re heading to your first tour or your tenth, remember that every "pinch-me" moment is an opportunity to practice the professional you’re becoming. Dress the part, do your research, and don't be afraid to ask the questions that matter.
I can’t wait to see where our next excursion takes us. Until then, stay curious, stay polished, and I’ll see you on campus!
WANT TO SEE MORE FROM OUR EXCURSION TO RUSSH MAGAZINE’S HEAD OFFICE?