By Marjorie Brody
Most business professionals know the maxim is true: “You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.” The simple fact is that your clothes can either hinder or help your message—no matter how eloquent you are. So, it’s time to reevaluate your professional wardrobe.
Men’s attire
No one disputes the powerful image of a man in a business suit—you come across as authoritative and credible. The basic “business professional” wardrobe options for men are:
- Suits: At least five two-button, three-button or double-breasted suits should be the basis of the business wardrobe. Double-breasted jackets should always be buttoned. Be careful with black—it can be intimidating. Plaid sports coats are too casual for business.
- Ties: They should contrast with the jacket; small geometric prints and stripes are good choices. Paisleys with subdued patterns are smart alternatives. Also, the tie and suit color should complement each other but never match.
- Shirts: They should always be long-sleeved. Solid colors are preferred—white is the best and safest choice. Pale blue is also acceptable. Avoid lavender, peach, plaids, dots and broad stripes.
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Since networking opportunities can happen at any time, make sure to always look your best. |
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Women’s attire
The following information should be used as a guide. Each woman will develop a style that best reflects her individual taste and personality.
- Suits: The skirt suit and pantsuit should be the mainstay of your wardrobe. A suit with a single-breasted jacket is more formal and more conservative than one with a double-breasted jacket. A double-breasted jacket should always be buttoned.
- Best fabrics for suits and dresses: Avoid pure linen, as it wrinkles easily. Polyester should look like a natural fabric. Be careful not to buy any material that has a chemical sheen to it.
- Belts: Leather is best, and should coordinate with your shoes.
- Shoes: Should be darker than the color of your hemline. Two-inch heels are recommended. Avoid sandals and open-toed shoes.
- Hosiery: You can’t go wrong with neutral or flesh-toned. Do not wear dark stockings with light shoes. But do wear stockings!
- Jewelry: Avoid jewelry that dangles or makes noise. Limit rings to one per hand. Wear the best watch you can afford. Pearls add elegance to any business suit.
- Handbag/briefcase: Leather is preferred. The best colors are black, brown and burgundy. Avoid designer labels on handbags.
And finally … business casual
What does “business casual” mean, anyway? Here’s a simple answer: If you aren’t sure whether a garment is appropriate, it’s probably not. Also, check out the following list of no-nos:
- Jeans (of any color)
- Leggings
- T-shirts
- Bare midriffs or low-cut garments, front or back
- Any kind of workout clothes, running or gym shoes, sneakers or sandals
- Hats, caps
- Ripped or tattered clothing
- Extremely tight-fitting blouses, short skirts or other suggestive clothing.
Above all else, remember: Since networking opportunities can happen at any time, make sure to always look your best.
Copyright 2006 Marjorie Brody. Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved.
Marjorie Brody, CSP, CMC, PCC, is a speaker, coach to Fortune 1000 executives and the author of more than 18 books, including Help! Was That a Career-Limiting Move? and Speaking Is an Audience-Centered Sport. For more information, call 800-726-7936, or visit www.MarjorieBrody.com.
JULY 2006
Stop Beign Average
Professional Fun
Making the A-List
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