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.
Tag Archives: Men
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.
Dressing Your Lifestyle
Our lifestyle represents the way we live and because of this we need to make sure our clothing helps us to function well in our living environments. It also needs to function well in the lifestyle environments that represent our goals. As our lifestyle changes so will our clothing needs. The key is to constantly evaluate our clothing needs and don’t get stuck in a clothing rut that may be holding you back.
Be Poised with Good Posture
Great posture can work wonders. It will make you appear more confident and poised; your clothing will fit better and look more expensive; and it will improve your health and your personal image.
Good posture takes practice and discipline. But, when you walk into a room with your shoulders back, standing up straight, movements smooth, you will look more poised.
Why Network?
It’s interesting because many people are confused about what the purpose of networking is. This can create stress for some and leave others feeling like it was a bad experience. However networking is something that we do every day in both business and social settings. Networking is really just meeting new people and getting to know them. This will help you establish rapport and you never know where that will lead.
Four Reasons to Wear a Neck Tie
Many men hate the thought of putting on a neck tie and for many reasons. Some men hate the thought of wearing a tie because they feel they are uncomfortable; some men say they feel too dressed up when wearing a tie; and some men don’t know how to tie a tie-knot. If this is your only reason please see my YouTube videos below on how to tie various tie knots.
How to Tie the 4-in-Hand
How to Tie the Half Windsor
How to tie the Full Windsor
How to Tie the Pratt or Shelby Knot
Here are four reasons why you should wear a tie:
- Neck ties complete an outfit and make it look more finished.
- You will appear taller and slimmer when wearing a tie.
- When worn in a colour that suits you, ties make you look more healthy and attractive.
- You appear more credible and authoritative when wearing a tie then when you don’t.
How to Draw Attention to Your Face
When mingling socially or for business the initial purpose is to meet people and carry on a conversation. However, sometimes meeting people can be difficult. A great way to attract attention is with great accessories. For men this could include a tie, braces or cufflinks. For women this could be a belt, bracelet, earrings, scarf, necklace or a broach. However, because the accessory also creates a focal point, the placement should be strategic. To focus attention on the conversation and keeping it there requires focal points close to your face. Use accessories such as a great tie or braces for men and scarves, necklaces and earrings for women to add interest and keep the focus on your face and the conversation.
How to Get the Most Benefit from Your Name Tag
I recently attended a networking function and I was surprised at how many people don’t know how to use a name tag effectively.
A name tag is a great way to help others remember who you are and what you do. However, the size and placement are important.
The name tag should be legible from a distance. When writing your name, use large, thick capital letters. This will make it easier to read.
The eye will be drawn to the name tag so the placement is important. Wear a jacket with a lapel. Many nametags have clips that are meant to be attached to a lapel in order to hang properly. When attached to a shirt or blouse they ruin the line of the garment and look sloppy.
The name tag is always placed on the right. The reason for this is because when shaking hands the eye will automatically be drawn up the arm to the name tag and then to the face. In a business gathering this should be the target for the focus of attention.
