You're Only as Smart as You Look: Know the Clothing Etiquette for the Professionals

Copyright (c) 2009 Abby Lawal

Are you confused about how to choose a professional wardrobe that is diverse enough to be appropriate for any business clothing etiquette? Do you have business attire that is suitable for the boardroom, the company outing, or casual day?

Whether you are an executive mom, an office manager, or a CEO, you need professional attire that is right for your job and all the functions that require a variety of dress. How often do you find yourself standing in front of a closet full of clothes, not being able to find anything to wear?

If this describes your morning, it's time to refresh your professional attire. Remember, bad wardrobe decisions are a serious career mistake.

What you need to do is get a clean start, building up your wardrobe for all the seasons and all the functions that take place in your workplace and your social life throughout the year. When you do this, you will find that you always have appropriate clothing of business casual attire, boardroom professional suits, or executive mom suits.

*** Professional Look ***

Let's begin with women's clothing that you can find to look your best. Consider styles that withstand the test of time when choosing a woman's suit. Classic styles in beautiful textures and fabrics are ideal choices for the professional woman who wants to dress for success, following the clothing etiquette for the professional. The Audrey B suit line has classic women's suits with money saving deals. An all purpose jacket to compliment crisply creased trousers is also downright professional attire.

These tips also hold true for men's clothing. A truly striking color for a man's business suit is a steel gray with a white dress shirt. The effect is striking and eye-popping.

Give yourself a heads up on co-workers, wearing an Italian wool suit that is fit to your proportions, not saggy or droopy. The suit pants should fit comfortably at your hips. You will not go unnoticed if you walk into the boardroom wearing a well fitted suit which enhances your strength and authority.

*** Business Casual Attire ***

Now for business casual attire; the clothing etiquette for the casual day is neat, yet business like. Both men and women can create a business casual look with a dark, all purpose blazer, or jacket with contrasting trousers which are a staple of any wardrobe. Don't forget a pair of men's loafers or women's pumps to balance out the outfit. Casual business attire is all about fit, proportion, and comfort.

*** Professional Clothing Etiquette ***

One of most difficult thing to nail down is what is appropriate for work and what would be too extravagant or awkward to wear in an office environment. Followings are basic rule to follow so that you don't make a career mistake.

- Nothing beat a clean, well pressed dress or suit with polished shoes.

- Some company have dress codes, if you work in a place where there is a dress code, all you need to do is follow the rules. If there is no dress code, make sure you create your own.

- Women should wear pressed blouse (plain colors are better under your jacket) with knee-length skirts or slacks and closed-toe shoes for more professional appearance.

- Men should wear collared shirt with a jacket and tie when going for a business. The outer jacket or tie may be optional when there is no meeting Nice tailored quality pant and leather shoes to make the appearance more presentable

Another thing to keep in mind when you shop for professional attire is to choose women's clothes or men's clothes in subdued colors, textured fabrics, classy, yet edgy, and dynamic.

If you follow these clothing etiquette guidelines for the professional, you will build a wardrobe that is comfortable and suits your good taste.