Proper Business Attire

If you want to be a part of this corporate world, you must follow the basic etiquette and being properly dressed up is the most essential among all. We all know that the first impression is the last impression. The first thing that is perceived about an individual is his dressing sense. So, a polished image becomes very important to present yourself as well as your organization. A proper business attire must be followed irrespective of the age and sex as it gives you a different and a professional look in life. Along with knowledge and excellent command over your skills, you must also leave a long-lasting impression through your personality which includes appropriate business professional attire. It has been reported that even the Queen of England reminded Prince Charles about proper dress code, "Dress gives one the outward sign from which people can judge the inward state of mind. One they can see, the other they cannot." The way you dress up depends on many factors like the type of industry you are working with, the geographical area that you live in, the culture of the society, and the type of clients you deal with.

Dress Code for Men

It has been observed since ages that there has not been any significant change in men's attire from season to season. But let's not confuse the change with the fashion, rather we are talking about being professional. For success, dressing is still counted. Here are a few important things that should be always kept in mind.

• The quality and the color of the dress speaks a lot about you and your personality. The difference between the cheap and the charming can be easily figured out. So, select the suits either black, gray or navy in color.
• The color of the shirt should be light, preferably white or blue with slightly long sleeves that adds to your sophisticated looks.
• The fabric of the tie that you choose should be either silk or silk-like. Avoid the ties that have something written or printed on it, because it takes you away from professionalism.
• Do not mix up fashion with professionalism. The socks should be of calf length and should complement what you are wearing.
• Lace-up shoes should be preferred rather than slip-ons. They should be clean, polished and conservative as shoes are the main attraction as well.
• The belt should be simple and must complement the shoes, and of course the quality does matter.
• The use of accessories should be restricted. At the most, you can wear a conservative watch and a wedding ring.
• Maintenance of personal hygiene is a must. Always be clean shaven. Funky looks can be for the weekends.

Dress Code for Women

When women first entered the corporate world and started taking the positions equivalent to men, they were expected to simulate men and so they adopted the business formal attire similar to men, like skirt suits. But the trends have changed and now she has her own way to dress up professionally. The rules for women is same as men.

• The most conservative looks are achieved by wearing pant suits, skirt suits, or especially designer suits. The jackets complementary to the suits offers credibility as well as elegance.
• The extreme variations in the lengths of the skirts should be avoided. The ideal length should be till the knee or slightly above or below it. The stocking should be of flesh color.
• Talking about pants, calf length and Capri pants would take you away from the professional world. The pants should end at the top of the shoe.
• The tops should be sober and simple. The color too should be light so that it has an appealing effect rather than revealing.
• The shoes should be comfortable as well as conservative. The top-opened shoes should be avoided and low heels should be preferred.
• The use of jewelry should be minimized. At the most, one ring on each hand, simple earrings and a bracelet would suffice.

Apart from following these points, do not forget to carry a 'confident smile' that would add to your pleasing and impressive personality. Keep your torn and funky jeans, cool T-shirts and short skirts for the weekends. Always remember that your dress too speaks a lot about you, and is essential for a powerful and everlasting impression.