I receive calls all the time about how to put together professional and polished outfits that are in sync with the weather. We are all visual learners, so here are some examples.
Some situations for men will require a suit or a sport coat. This example is tieless (more casual) yet has a splash of color and style with the pocket square. Light colors set the tone for spring and summer, and the fabrics speak warm weather.
Show some personality! A contrasting vest with a crisp shirt will make you appear professional yet approachable. Since many situations for networking are inside with air conditioning, you won’t over heat. I know we all look for opportunities to be outside, and many events have moved to outdoor patios, so the beating sun or humidity will influence how you dress. Here are some optional looks for those events.
Picnics and other outdoor business networking events come up often, and when your wardrobe supports all the activities of your life, you will have the perfect garments for this social event as well.
Color communicates your confidence and the season. I’m not sure why so many men are mostly wearing all black. Black can be intimidating and it’s much too visually heavy for the season. Challenge yourself to wear black sparingly and deliberately. (I come across this all the time, so issues with too much black are my specialty.)
Another common look for men is the polo and khaki’s … (snoring). Really, again? How about a punch of pastel slacks or shorts for a picnic, and a short sleeve button up in a relatable check, plaid or memorable color. Isn’t the idea to make a positive and indelible impression?
TIP: guys, take the time to find clothes that fit you. Avoid the too-wide sleeves of a polo; instead find an athletic or slim fit that is more streamlined to your physique. Seams need to sit on your shoulder bone – anything larger makes you look sloppy. Remember you’re with potential clients, friends, referrals. Everywhere you go, your image is making an impression, so it’s worth mastering it and investing in it.
Women have more options, and many times removing a blazer or summer cardigan will change the mood of the outfit. Accessories factor in as well. Wouldn’t you look silly if you wore high heels to a picnic? Colorful pointy-toed flats would be a better match or even a cork wedge in a manageable inch or two.
TIP: Avoid showing inappropriate skin. Sure, bare your arms and your legs, but know the line that is never crossed in business, or you may attract the wrong attention and the wrong clients.
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