…for Appropriate Business Attire
- Learn how to select appropriate business attire with these quick tips!
1. Clean and press your clothing.
Wrinkled, stained, and dirty clothing is not becoming; clean and press any items you plan to wear. Along the same lines, don’t forget proper grooming for yourself too.
2. Use cologne and perfume sparingly.
Even if you love your fragrance, your colleagues and clients may not. Keep your scent light so that you don’t distract from your message or aggravate your companion’s allergies.
3. Consider accessories carefully.
Whether you subscribe to the advice of Coco Chanel (before you leave the house, remove one accessory) or the “Rule of 12” (no more than 12 shiny objects, including buttons, rings, and other jewelry), don’t allow your accessories to overpower your outfit.
4. Invest in nice pieces.
If it isn’t in your budget or you simply don’t prefer to obtain an expensive designer wardrobe, consider investing in just a few key pieces (ie. watch, purse or briefcase, shoes, jacket) to elevate your overall look.
5. Dress according to your body type, not the latest trends.
Just because the fashion magazines dictate that pants be high wasted, ultra low wasted, or otherwise, doesn’t mean all of those cuts will be flattering on your shape. Choose a style because it compliments your physique, not because it’s “in” today.
6. Find a good tailor.
Off the rack clothes rarely fit real people perfectly. A good tailor will adjust your garments to fit you properly so that you can appear confident in your look instead of fidgeting with ill fitting pieces.
7. Match to the occasion.
It’s better to over-dress than under-dress, but do so within reason. Select attire that matches your activity and your associates – if you aren’t familiar with the location or group, call ahead to ask.
8. Still not sure? Wear layers.
If you can’t decipher the dress code, layer your clothing so you can casually adjust items until you arrive at the right combination (for example, if you start with a suit and tie or scarf, you can remove the jacket, loosen the tie or scarf, and roll up the sleeves to take your look from business professional to business casual).
Robyn Davis - Owner, When I Need Help (WINH)
Robyn helps exhibitors improve their results at conventions and trade shows by providing on-site sales and marketing support, pre-/post-event consulting services, and convenient products. Contact Robyn to discuss your situation today!
