Men and women alike should choose tailored, neutral-tone suits for business.
Although business dress today is more casual than it was before 1960, there are still time-honored standards of "dressing for success." Whether already in the workforce or preparing for an upcoming job interview, professionals should present an image of proper business attire and feel confident with their appearance. Create a polished and non-distracting look with a sleek hairstyle, tailored clothing, and conservative accessories to help you stay on top in today's business world.
Instructions
1. Select clothes that are tailored and well-fitting, in neutral shades, such as black, brown, khaki, or blue. Men should dress in business suits, with long-sleeve, button-down shirts, ties that are not too "loud," and belts with unostentatious buckles. Women should opt for pant suits, tailored skirts, blouses, and blazers while avoiding skirts that are too short or have high slits. Both women and men should avoid flashy colors, fad styles, and clothes that are too tight or too baggy. Keep all clothing items clean and ironed to reflect a professional appearance.
2. Style hair in a clean-cut look. Men should wear their hair short and well-trimmed with a clean-shaven face or a well-manicured beard. Women should wear their hair pulled back or in an updo with makeup and lipstick in neutral tones. Avoid extreme styles, bright hair colors, overly ornate hair accessories or heavy makeup.
3. Choose dress shoes in shades such as brown, black, or navy blue. Men should wear leather, lace-up dress shoes or loafers. Women should choose closed-toe and closed-back dress heels or pumps and avoid strappy or open-toed shoes. Sneakers, flip-flops and clogs are never appropriate for business dress.
4. Customize business dress with accessories but select items that are conservative and not overly flashy. A watch and cufflinks are appropriate choices for men. Women should keep their jewelry simple, such as small earrings and a necklace, avoiding large, distracting or brightly-colored jewelry. Other options include scarves and handkerchiefs.
5. Carry a briefcase or shoulder bag to complete the business look. Briefcases come in a variety of styles and colors and are appropriate for both men and women to carry. Avoid bright colors or patterns and animal prints; choose instead a bag in black, brown, or other neutral shade.
