What you wear to business meetings says a lot about your work ethic. The way we dress for work has drastically changed over the last few decades, but the golden rule remains the same- flip-flops, short skirts, and polo shirts aren’t the most appropriate business attire. Even if you work in a casual work environment, chances are you’ll have to attend meetings from time to time, which is why you need to learn how to dress appropriately for these occasions.
Although you should wear practical and comfortable clothing for work, here are a few ways you can make a good first impression when meeting other professionals in your industry.
Appropriate attire matters
When choosing what to wear when attending a business meeting, it’s important to remember that business owners and managers claim appropriate business attire makes employees look more trustworthy and professional. Therefore, even though some clothes may be acceptable, we advise you to play them safe and dress up to look professional and competent.
So, for example, whether you’re a woman or a man, you can’t go wrong by choosing to wear a stylish suit. Wearing a tailored suit will not only affect others’ perceptions of you, but it will also boost your self-confidence. Luckily, there are many stylish choices for both men and women available, and if you don’t already have a suit, this is your sign to get one.
Business casual
Business suits will make you look professional and stylish, but they usually cost more than regular clothing. Even worse, you cannot put a suit in the washing machine, which is why it’s recommended to give your wardrobe a sharp makeover. Luckily for you, business casual attire offers you the opportunity to express your personal style while radiating confidence in the workplace. Casual attire is more comfortable and cozy, and if you have to work eight or more hours a day, this may be your best option for business meetings.
Business casual attire for women can be a stylish combo of tailored pants and blouses or dress shirts. Knee-length skirts paired with a white blouse, a stylish blazer, and business casual shoes will look great on you whether you’re attending regular or formal meetings or even job interviews. The ideal business casual combo for men is a stylish dress shirt, weather, and neutral pants. Pair that with a tweed jacket, and your coworkers and clients will admire your style.
Extreme skin exposure
Although you’re free to wear whatever you want once your shift is over, there are some rules you need to follow when getting ready for work. For example, extreme skin exposure isn’t allowed, and this rule applies to both men and women.
Short skirts, dresses, shorts, and sleeveless shirts are inappropriate, and you shouldn’t wear them when going to work, especially when attending business meetings.
Work appropriate outfits for women
As a woman, it’s essential to find your ideal clothing combinations for work that match your style. If you love to wear dresses, be sure the dresses you wear to work are longer and appropriate for meetings. Blouses can be white, black, or neutral, and don’t be afraid to add a few accessories such as scarfs, earrings, or a wristwatch to complete your look.
If you have to attend a business meeting and all your casual business clothing is in the laundry basket, a compact ultra sonic cleaner is a lifesaver that allows you to prepare for your meeting even if you don’t have enough dirty clothes for a full load.
Work appropriate outfits for men
Men should stick to the basics- a pair of stylish pants, a blazer, and a cardigan paired with a dress shirt are all you need for the next business meeting. If you want to go the extra mile, you can put on your favorite wristwatch or a ring to complete the look. Those who love to follow the latest fashion trends should experiment with different materials, and maybe try to find a lovely silk or viscose button-up shirt or a blouse for the next meeting.
Conclusion
Although we would all love to wear comfortable and stylish clothes when attending meetings, these rules exist for a reason. If you want to improve your career development, make better deals with your clients and earn respect from your peers, it would be best to consider these options and shop for new business attire.
Author Bio
Maggie Holmes is a passionate blog writer who is extremely keen on writing about fashion, lifestyle, business, and technology. Her exclusive hobby is to surf the net to find amazing articles that can inspire her with some fresh ideas for article writing. She loathes being a common person who wastes her time. Follow her on Twitter.