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When you’re working in a professional business environment, you will need to look the part. Looking your best in business attire is a key component for success, whether you’re meeting with clients, presenting at a conference, or making a first impression at a job interview. Understanding how to dress in business attire can boost your confidence and also impress your colleagues and clients—by looking put together and presentable, you will exude professionalism and a commitment to your work. Yes, your clothing can directly contribute to your success! If you’re wondering what to wear to the office, continue reading on for our best recommendations.
From formal business wear to business casual, there are various levels of business attire to consider when planning your look. The type of business attire you wear may depend on your company culture, geographical trends, and your day-to-day work. Some days you may dress more formally for a client dinner, while other days you may dress more business casual in the office—that’s why it is so important to have a range of versatile separates in your wardrobe.
Formal business attire is most common in corporate and traditional professions, such as finance, law, and real estate. A more formal business ensemble would include a suit, consisting of a tailored jacket and dress slacks, plus a button up shirt and leather shoes. For more formal business occasions, you can add a tie that matches the tones of your suit. The color palette should be neutral and dark, such as black, navy, or gray. It should also be exceptionally tailored or even a made-to-measure suit. The fit is key.
For business formal wear, a white button-up shirt is an essential piece to have in your wardrobe. A well fitted button-up with a crisp collar is a must-have for any office and business environment. Having a few tailored button ups will guarantee you always have a smart shirt to wear. In addition to white, you can introduce button ups in other colors that pair well with your suit separates, such as shades of blue or gray.
Did you know you can have a button up custom made to your measurements? At Q. Contrary, making custom shirts is one of our specialties.
If you’re going into the office on a Friday, or if you have a more relaxed company culture, you might opt for business casual attire. Business casual is a less formal dress code than formal business attire, and it’s more common in the present day and at certain companies, such as tech and startups. These days, men are going into the office without a full suit, yet still look incredibly smart and professional. A business casual ensemble includes a well-fitting shirt and slacks, without a tie or formal dress shoes. Your business casual shirt could be a button-up, knit t-shirt, half zip, or sweater. The pants may be dress slacks, dark denim jeans, or khakis. It’s important to assess your look to ensure you don’t appear too casual—be sure to avoid jeans with holes and ill-fitting garments.
Once you have built a wardrobe and mastered the art of dressing in business attire, the styling doesn’t end there. You should add the finishing touches, including a leather belt with matching shoes. Carefully choose your accessories, such as a tie and dress socks (and make sure your socks match!) Pay attention to your grooming, ensuring your hair is clean and styled. Lastly, check your outfit to make sure it is pristinely pressed. Your clothes should not have any wrinkles or improper creases, and the collar of your shirt should be crisp as it frames your face. If you have any doubts about the fit of your clothing, from the length of your sleeves to the hem of your pants, stop by your local tailor for an expert assessment of the fit. Here at Q. Contrary, we can perfectly tailor your clothes to your build, making you look like the most successful version of yourself.
