Fashion really does make a statement -- especially in the workplace. What you wear on the job could help determine whether you get promoted, according to a new survey.

In a Yahoo! HotJobs poll on workplace fashion issues, a majority of the general workforce (68%) and HR professionals (82%) believe that how employees dress at work affects their chances for a promotion.

"How you dress at work definitely shapes how others perceive you," says Susan Vobejda, vice president of marketing for Yahoo! HotJobs. "Our survey shows that it's worthwhile to choose your work attire carefully, because those choices could help to move your career forward." More than half of the survey respondents (57%) said they would be willing to buy a new wardrobe in order to get a promotion.

Time for a New Look?

An entirely new wardrobe may not be necessary to enhance your promotion prospects, according to lifestyle and image consultant David A. McKnight, founder of DAMstyle. He recommends three tips that apply to men and women:

Purchase wisely for the long term. "Invest in high quality clothing with conservative colors and classic and simple cuts -- when in doubt they're always the safest."

Maintain clothes properly with professional pressing and cleaning. "It gives a polished look, and clothing is likely to last a bit longer. Shoes should always be shined, and the heels should not be worn down."

Pay attention to a proper fit. "A person can improve appearance drastically by wearing clothes that fit properly. Generally for men the biggest offenses include wearing pants or jackets that are too short or too long. For women, the biggest offenses include wearing skirts or pants that are too tight, or blouses and pants that are too low."