Let’s face it, most people feel the comfiest wearing old sneakers and equally aged jeans. However, if you come to a business meeting looking like a hobo, no amount of sweet talk can help you. Looks matter, no matter what people say. It doesn’t have to be a million-dollar look, just follow some basic tips, and you will rock every meeting. Guaranteed.
Business Casual Meeting
Casual meetings can be tricky territory. What’s casual for a lawyer can seem uptight to a graphic designer. You get the trick. So, play safe.
Women
- A chiffon blouse or a turtleneck is your weapon. Go with a single color shirt or a simple pattern. On colder days, a trench coat or smart jacket will be your friend.
- For the lower part, pick between trousers or skirts. Chinos or wool trousers are the safest bet. Skirts should be a decent length, and usually black. A mixture of professionalism and femininity.
- Choose high heels, but not too high. Usually, up to four inches is acceptable. Other options include loafers or Chelsea boots. Black or brown are safe bets for color; leave red out of this.
- If you plan to wear a piece of jewelry, keep it a low profile. Remember, this is a business meeting, so no oversized earrings or flashy necklaces.
Men
- A formal shirt is always an elegant choice. If the shirt is well tucked and paired with a cardigan, it is a sure hit.
- As for the trousers part, pick chinos, or, for a more casual option, jeans. But, no cropped pants or too bright of color choices. Dark is the color you need to strive for.
- For your feet, choose formal shoes or Chelsea shoes. Black, brown, or even beige are all good choices depending on your outfit.
- Pair your belt with your shoes and your wristwatch. The watch should be simple, yet elegant. So, no overgrown flashy time-tellers.
Formal Meeting
Dressing for a formal meeting is not the same as dressing for every day. Your fashion choice makes as much statement as your words. So, choose carefully.
Women
- The formal shirt goes great with a black pencil skirt. If you decide to wear a dress, make it a high-neck, A-line one. Both dress or skirt shouldn’t be more than four fingers above your knee. Optionally, you can also wear tailored wide trousers.
- As for the shoes, choose Chelsea boots, loafers, or high heels. Of course, nothing higher than four inches.
- If you opt for a skirt (or dress) wear black or skin-colored tights. Skin flashing is not formal. Finish your look with discreet jewelry and an elegant handbag.
Men
- Suit up. Two-piece or three-piece suits work well, but choose darker nuances, and make sure your suit fits you– so, no loose ends. A formal shirt is also a must.
- Cufflinks, a leather belt, and a watch must be paired in color. Finish your appearance with an elegant silk tie.
- Brown or black oxfords are your shoes. Of course, pair them with your suit and your socks.
Top Tips for a Better Look at a Business Meeting
- Hairstyle matters. Women, keep your hair out of your faces. Men, be trimmed, including your beard and mustaches. A beard comb and oil will keep your facial hair tidy and elegant.
- No skin flashing. Remember, this is a business meeting, not an opportunity to show results of gym-going or that fine bronze tan you got on your vacation.
- Make sure your clothes fit perfectly. Visit your tailor regularly. The business meeting is no place for sloppy clothes or clothes that reveal too much.
- With perfumes, less is more. Especially on hot days. Just a few drops placed strategically will be enough.
- Go easy on the accessories. Nobody came to the meeting to see your topaz ring or 10k worth wristwatch. Nobody is interested in that.
- Be yourself. Yeah, this is a cliche, but be natural and confident. Make sure you feel good in your clothes and in your skin. When you get that right, you will charm anyone on the opposite side of the business table.
Conclusion
Business meetings can be a source of stress, but with these pieces of advice, you are guaranteed to rock every single one of them. Well, at least in the fashion sense. Your professional outlook will leave a good impression, and impressions last. Don’t forget, we are visual beings, so make sure you stand out.
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