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Dressing For Business

Dressing For Business

By Laura Blake

As Asia becomes more relevant in the business world, meeting with clients and partners from around the world is becoming increasingly common. When meeting with new professional contacts, first impressions are vitally important – and a well-tailored suit can simultaneously project your well-honed, professional image and inspire confidence in your abilities. 
 
When purchasing a suit, it’s advised you visit a well-reputed tailor who specialises in bespoke garments – whilst the price tags found on designer suits can evoke the suggestion of quality, nothing can compare to a suit that has been expertly tailored to your personal specifications. A quality tailor will offer advice on fabric choice (especially the best fabric suited to your working environment) colour and, most importantly, style. 
 
Selecting a fabric and colour for a business suit requires a certain amount of care and attention. Whilst you might describe your personal style as full of flare, there are only three colours that are perfectly suited to workplace; navy, charcoal and grey. These classic colours can easily be paired with stylish accessories and a quality shirt for a look that instantly inspires professionalism. An interesting point to note, however, is that whilst in the west a black suit is more suited to sombre occasions than the work place, they are an increasingly popular choice amongst the business delegates of Asia, thus offering a little more freedom regarding the choice of the colour of your business wardrobe. It goes without saying that bright colours and garish prints do not belong in the boardroom, no matter where in the world you are. 
 
The material of your suit will not only impact its look and feel, but will also determine how long it lasts. Wool is generally considered to be one of the best materials for suits, offering a balance of style and practicality. Worsted wool is all at once versatile, hard wearing and attractive, whilst a tropical wool suit is better suited for those travelling to warmer destinations; this breathable fabric will ensure the wearer stays cool, even in humid climates. Linen is always a light and stylish alternative, though is perhaps better suited for more casual occasions as it can crease quite easily. 
 
As well as matte fabric styles, a variety of weaves and patterns are also on offer. Subtlety is the key when choosing a patterned material; whilst understated weaves such as nail-head and gabardine can add a classic touch to the look of your suit, higher contrast patterns such as houndstooth, plaid and sharkskin can sometimes seem too ‘busy’ for appropriate business wear. Pin and chalk stripes are common features of business attire, though it is important to ensure the stripes are not too vivid against the backdrop of the suit. 
 
The cut of a suit jacket can make the difference between looking professional and looking somewhat out of date.  Two-buttoned jackets are the standard in the business world; however, it is also important to dress for your body shape to ensure you feel comfortable and therefore, look professional. Three-buttoned suits, for example, are a good choice for taller, slender men. One-button suits inspire a more casual look, and double-breasted suits should always be avoided. 
 
While it may be tempting to choose a suit in keeping with current fashion trends, it is always wise to remember that these trends can change, and quickly. By choosing a more conservative style, you can guarantee that with the right care and attention, your bespoke suit will survive more than a few seasons. And a well-fitting suit never goes out of fashion. 

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