Dress for Success
Disclaimer: This article reviews the basics... if you read GQ or Details on a regular basis... it may not be much of a stretch for you.
"Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence in society."
- Mark Twain
Perception is definitely a big part of the impression you leave with others. How you dress is a big part of how people view you and can also influence your own self-image. When you take time to plan how you present yourself and feel good about how you look you will exude that confidence to all those around you. That does not necessarily mean you have to get GQ'd up to go into the office everyday, but you should take some time to plan the look you want to convey.
Your company's culture will determine the level you go to look good at work, but whether it's all suits or polo and some khakis, make sure you are conscious of what you're putting on. Many men update their wardrobe rather infrequently, thinking that their favorite shirt looks just as good now as it did five years ago. Try to go through your wardrobe at least every six months (if not more frequent) and purge. If it's getting faded or frayed just do yourself a favor and throw it away! If it's a little too tight, chunk it or give it away. Then, think about a few items you might want to add, maybe another pair of slacks or a couple more nice dress shirts would keep you from going to the dry-cleaners every other day. Purchasing these items frequently will not only keep you looking good, but it will also reduce the huge blow to your wallet by spreading out the dollars you spend over time. Below are a few tips for the fashionably challenged.
The Suit
Even if your company is more buttoned down make sure you have a couple nice suits for special occasions. A single-breasted suit of gray, navy, black or brown is recommended. Look for suits made of 100% "worsted" wool. Wool is a natural fiber that breathes, which means you'll be more comfortable, you'll perspire less, and the fabric will travel well. Also, look for suit jackets that are fully lined and pants that are lined to the knee. Lining increases comfort and reduces wrinkling. Sleeves should end at the wrist (a rule of thumb is that when you extend your hand to shake someone's hand your sleeve should feel comfortable and should not retract halfway up your forearm). Don't just take it off the rack and start wearing it. Get a tailor to help make sure you have everything sized to fit you correctly.
The Shirt
If you're wearing a suit go with a long sleeved, button down, collared white or light blue shirt. The collar should fit perfectly and about one inch of the cuff should show beyond the suit. The shirt should be cotton fabric (breathes better, which will cut down on perspiration) and well ironed.
If it's a little warmer and your company allows it, a nice polo (or golf) shirt can still present a professional look as long as it is well ironed and is not faded.
The Tie
Don't overdo it here! Your tie should make you appear businesslike and complete a professional-looking package. The pattern/design should be conservative, not flashy. The tie color should match your shirt/suit color.
Shoes, Socks, and the rest
Socks should match in color to your suit. Black with black, gray with gray, tan with... well, you get the point. Buy a wide variety of colors in significant quantities (a dozen of each color you need). This will assure that you always have a pair ready to go.
Black or burgundy shoes can be worn with navy blue or gray suits for a professional image. Make sure they are well polished, free of scuffmarks, and the laces are not frayed or broken.
Your belt should match the color of your shoes and if you're wearing a watch make sure it goes with the metal on your belt buckle.
Finally, carry a professional looking portfolio or briefcase to any business meetings in lieu of just a pen and pad. This will top off your look and help keep your business life organized!
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