Shopping for a classic power suit today is no easy task. Just take a look at the trendier clothes in boutiques and stores, and it would seem that power dressing is on its last legs, if not altogether “out”.
But before you decide to store or give away your power suits, consider where professional attire is heading in the new millennium.
Like it or not, there is an international standard for business decoration and dress that will carry through from the 20th century. At high-level international gatherings, the standard business suit still rules, with the exception of national or ethnic dress.
With this universal acceptance, the power suit will remain a must for high-level meetings in all sectors. However, what we are also seeing is an increasing range of business wear now considered acceptable – or gaining acceptance.
Less formal work environments, growing e-commerce and flatter hierarchies in organizations mean that there are fewer and more specific occasions when power dressing is needed.
The challenge now for professionals and executives is to know how to identify the image and dress level that is appropriate for the industry, job position and business agenda from day to day.
And it never hurts to review your current attire and grooming. As well-known international image consultant Robert Pante would advise: “Dress for the job you want, not for what you already have.”
The following basic dos and don’ts for men and women still apply.
Women
Do:
- Do distinguish between your professional working clothes and weekend, leisure and social wear.
- Do own at least one high-quality business-like jacket, preferably with a matched skirt.
- Do make sure your business clothes fit well. Professional alternation tailors offer fitting solutions for off-the-rack clothes.
- Do complete an outfit with a few accessories for interest and to express your individuality.
- Do wear some make-up to finish your professional look.
Don't:
- Don’t opt for a pastel or bright colored business suit if you want to own only one.
- Don’t wear outfits with too much spandex in the fabrics. Figure-hugging clothes just don’t look serious.
- Don’t go overbroad with prints and patterned fabric. They do little to project cosmopolitan professional image.
- Don’t have hair hanging in your face. You lose the chance for clear communication.
- Don’t forget a smart bag and pair of shoes. Soft carry-alls and slinky sandals or chunky platforms can look out of place.
Men
Do:
- Do have at least one classic tailored suit. Even if you seldom wear it, the returns on your professional image will justify the investment.
- Do buy higher-quality items. They look and last better. If you are on a budget, buy fewer.
- Do have at least three white shirts in good condition.
- Do buy a selection of high-quality silk ties for different occasions.
- Do invest in an impressive sign-pen for your shirt pocket.
Don't:
- Don’t wear your trousers too tight or too short. It plays up your weight and poor taste.
- Don’t wear a shirt that is darker than your tie, except on a non-client dress-down day.
- Don’t opt for a canvas briefcase when in a formal suit. Carry a leather one instead.
- Don’t wear one pair of shoes all the time. Alternate two pairs to allow for proper shoe maintenance at no extra long-term expense.
- Don’t allow tell-tale nicotine stains on your teeth if you smoke.
|
