One of the things that really stood out for me on my trip to London was business clothing for men. The business suit was the key element for business dress compared to Vancouver where we are still seeing a lot of sport coats worn for business. The navy suit was everywhere; this in contrast to Vancouver where we are still seeing more charcoal, muted colours and earth tones rather than navy. In France, navy and charcoal suits were worn, however, so was the sport coat. In both countries, business casual included short sleeved camp style and dress shirts tucked into the slacks or trousers. Pant styles are mainly plain front styles with narrow legs, all worn with sleek, tapered oxfords.
Yearly Archives: 2010
We Saw Men’s Street Fashion First Hand in England & France
While we were in England and France we hit the streets and we walked everywhere, so we had a lot of opportunity to see men’s fashion in a lot of different areas and environments. What we noticed is that for men, street dressing this summer is basically the same in England and France as it is here in Vancouver. My observations included Bermuda & board shorts and mid-calf Capri styles were worn everywhere. Jean’s are a darker distressed denim with lots of detailing on the back pockets and some with print across the rear. Legs are straight or boot cut. All worn with t-shirts and/or collared shirt. I saw very few polo style shirts.
Shoes for men included everything from various sneaker styles (designed for street wear not active wear); boat shoes and loafers to dressier oxford styles with very sleek styling, tapered elongated toe and a thin sole.
European vs. Vancouver Fashion
I just returned from a working holiday in England and France with my daughter. We had a great time seeing the sites, relatives and the shops. I found clothing styles quite interesting because it used to be that clothing fashion in Europe was at least 2 years ahead of clothing fashion in Vancouver, where I live. Well times have changed and I am happy to say that the gap is closing fast. Many of the chain stores we see here in Vancouver, across Canada and in the US are also in London and Paris. However, I did notice some differences which I will explain in upcoming posts.
Why Keep Your Hands Well Groomed
Our hands are one of the most expressive parts of our body. And because of this they constantly draw attention to themselves. So it is very important to keep them well groomed. For women, this means that nails should be well shaped and filed to the same length. (Yes, that means when one breaks they should all be filed down.) Cuticles and skin should be moisturized regularly with cuticle and hand cream. If you polish your nails use colours that are flattering to your skin tone and keep the polish on the nails rather than the cuticles. Chipped nail enamel is very distracting, looks sloppy and can leave you feeling embarrassed. Always, repair or remove chipped nail enamel right away.
Earring Size Matters
I love large earrings. And I am happy to say that over the past few years they have been making a comeback. However, there is confusion about how big earrings should be when worn for work. Currently, large earrings make a fashion statement. They also make a statement about you. The wrong earrings can harm your credibility, they can be distracting and in some situations dangerous. When choosing earrings for work opt small to medium sized earrings with minimal details to keep attention focused on you not the earrings. Always consider your work environment, your job and the culture of your company and industry.
Not All Jeans Are Created Equal
For many of us jeans are the favourite garment that we throw on without really thinking about it. However, for jeans day at the office, it is important to consider that all jeans are not created equal. Jeans for business casual attire should be stylish and should be coloured denim or dark denim. The style should be flattering to the body shape without being overly revealing. Jeans that are tattered, distressed with uneven fading or with holes should be kept for weekend wear not work wear.
Best Shirts for Business Casual
Many men think that business casual dress includes a t-shirt. Unfortunately at many companies, t-shirts are considered a bit too casual even on casual day. Instead, choose a solid colour polo shirt, a band collar or button-down collar shirt. Camp style shirts also work well but should be tucked in for a professional look. During cooler weather, a light-weight mock or turtle neck sweater look professional. These will give you a comfortable casual look without being too casual.
No Collar is Too Casual
Dressing for work these days can be very confusing; especially in a business casual environment. And one question I hear all the time is how casual is too casual? For men the answer is simple. No collar is too casual. The collar is the key element for a business wardrobe, whether you are dressing in a casual or formal business environment. It draws attention to the face and adds a bit of tailoring even to an untailored look.
Depending on the industry, environment and your goals, this can take many forms or a combination of garments worn together. A sport coat, suit jacket, dress shirt, polo shirt, mock or turtle-neck all fall into this category.
When are T-Shirts Not OK?
Most men and many women I know love t-shirts. And no-wonder, a t-shirt is a short sleeved, knit top without a collar. They come in a variety of silhouettes and necklines. They are comfortable, easy to wear and appear casual, laid back and easy going. However, all of these great reasons for loving them are also great reason’s for not wearing them to work. When you are trying to impress your boss, a client or show that you are focused, on the job and effective in your work, why would you want your clothing to contradict that message and effort?
Scuffed Shoes Image Faux Pas
One of the most noticed image faux pas is dirty, scuffed shoes or those that are in poor condition. It is also one of those things that people forget about most before leaving the house. The condition of your shoes, are an indicator of your personality and how well you take care of things, no matter what they cost.
