Sunday 22 May 2011

Professional Dress Guidelines for Men


Shirts
The shirt sleeve cuff should be loose and extend to the end of your wrist.
If your shirt has a button on the sleeve above the cuff, button it.
Collars
A classic "Straight" collar is appropriate for all suits. It is traditional and conservative.
The "Tab" or "Pin" collars are other traditional shirts. They are both neat and formal.
The "Button-Down" collar is the most casual of all business shirts and looks fine without a tie.
"Banded" and “Mock” collars are nice alternatives to a traditional collared shirt when a tie isn't required. Select this style in dressy fabrics, such as silk, for an evening appropriate “smart casual” event.
Ties
The smaller the pattern and the darker the tie, the more authoritative the look.
The point of your tie should lay over your belt buckle.
Suits
When buttoning the jacket of a three button suit, fasten the top two buttons.
A double breasted suit should always be buttoned when standing.
The cuff of your shirt should extend about a half inch beyond a jacket sleeve.
Trousers
Fit is everything. Too big or too tight throws off the balance of your overall image.
Pant hems should clear the shoe heel, but rest on the front of the shoe, creating a slight break.
Socks
Dark socks such as navy, black or brown are best.
Over-the-calf socks are much better than shorter styles.
Going without socks is never appropriate in a business setting.
Shoes
Best shoes for business are wing-tips, oxfords and dress loafers. Wear wing-tips with traditional suits -- oxfords and dress loafers with more casual looks.
For many men, shoes are an afterthought, but cheap or uncared for shoes can ruin an otherwise polished appearance.
Outerwear
An all-weather (i.e.trench) coat and a well-maintained briefcase/tote are essential finishing pieces for most business outfits. Select a good quality trench coat with a zip-out liner so you can wear it year ‘round. You are often wearing a coat when you meet someone for the first time. Make sure this is one of the best items in your wardrobe.

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