Dress For Success
Below are some examples of appropriate dress styles for Professional and Business Casual. |
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Before you begin shopping, make a list of the items you already have in your closet. Using this list, create a shopping list of what you need and in what colors. Then stick to this list - it will save you time and money. |
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Dressing Tips for Men
Suits
- Choose a conservative single-breasted, 2-, 3-, or 4-button jacket (can be with or without a vent, but avoid 2 vents).
- Choose dark colors: black, dark gray, charcoal, olive, navy, or glen plaid. Avoid flashy or showy fabrics.
- A good bet for business casual is a navy blazer with dress pants, dress shirt, and a tie.
- Have your suit pressed every few weeks to keep it looking nice.
- Make sure your suit is altered to fit properly - sleeves should break just below your wrist.
- Shop around for the best value in price and quality, and consider sales and clearances.
- Some stores to try are Dillard's, Sears, JCPenney, Target, and Walker Bros.
Shirts
- Purchase several (7-8) good quality dress shirts (a couple are sufficient for campus interviews).
- Cotton is the best fabric for shirts - no polyester or polyester-blend.
- Collars should be stiff but comfortable (too loose looks unprofessional; too tight, you'll feel like you're choking).
- If buying a shirt with a pointed collar be sure that it has collar stays or can be buttoned down.
- A price range for quality shirts is $35-60 - remember that you're looking for good quality at a good price.
- Resist buying brightly colored shirts until your wardrobe has expanded a little more and until you know more about the culture of your workplace.
Ties
- Ties distinguish your individuality and update your fashion statement. They're also flexible and easy to replace.
- Colors should work back into your suit or work well with your shirt.
- Should end at belt line - no higher, no lower.
- Purchase 1 or 2 to start (a couple are sufficient for campus interviewing).
Shoes
- One pair basic black or brown.
- Make sure they are comfortable.
- Pricing: $90-150 for good quality leather shoes. Again, buy within your price range.
- Always make sure your shoes are polished and well maintained.
Belts, Suspenders, and Socks
- Your belt should match your shoes.
- Socks and suspenders can be matched to your suit, shirt, or tie; a solid color is better - preferably black or navy.
- If you wear suspenders, don't wear a belt.
Dressing Tips for Women
Jackets
- Choose a conservative style jacket in a solid, basic color. Save the trendier styles until you are more settled and familiar with the "culture" of your workplace.
Skirts
- Buy the skirt that goes with the jacket, and if possible, also choose a printed skirt that matches the jacket as well.
- Skirts should be not be higher than the knees.
Pants
- If the jacket you purchase has pants to match, that's great. Also consider additional pairs in black, navy, or dark gray.
- Conservative novelty pattern (small hounds tooth or other tight pattern) is acceptable.
Blouses
- Look for ivory, black, navy, and gray blouses or shells to wear under suits.
- Remember that blouses are an inexpensive way to change the look of an outfit.
- Don't wear sleeveless blouses and dresses.
Shoes
- Stick with flats or medium (2" - 21/2") heels.
- Black, navy, or neutral colors for shoes.
- Always look for comfort when purchasing shoes.
Accessories
- Scarves are another inexpensive way to change an outfit's look.
- Limit jewelry to 2 pieces at most.
Stockings
- Always wear stockings, and keep lots of extras on hand.
Also...
- Limit pastels to springtime.
- For business casual, wear a jacket and slacks or a conservative dress.
- Shop sales and clearances for the best values - some stores to try are Ann Taylor, Casual Corner, Talbot's, Dillard's, Sears, JC Penney.
- Remember you're looking for comfort, versatility, and value.
- Look at what upper management is wearing and pattern your wardrobe after those persons. Ask yourself, "What will my boss be wearing?"