Dear Diane,
I am a recent college graduate and find myself in new territory when it comes to putting together my career wardrobe. I am not sure what pieces are most important to build around, or where to start. My budget is modest, but I want to look the part. Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
Danny G.
Dear Danny,
Everything you wear speaks volumes about your professional image. You are on the right track as you focus on looking your best. Meeting someone for the first time offers a snapshot of who you are, even before you open your mouth to say “Hello.” Just as arriving to a meeting unprepared, or with papers falling out of a tattered manila folder sends up an instant red flag, so does wearing a suit or trouser with the wrong belt, or worse, no belt at all.
For a starting point, I suggest investing in a good quality black/brown leather belt that coordinates with your shoes, another purchase that is well worth the cost. A watch with a link or leather band and a leather portfolio all convey success. There are other significant pieces to your personal brand, such as a fresh shave, an updated haircut and a firm handshake.
Every detail matters; it will serve you well to meet with a department stylist at a clothing store to give you some personal direction based on your budget and what is already hanging in your closet. Best of luck in updating your wardrobe as you set out on your career path.
For more of my business attire tips, read my article, Job Attire for Men, on HuffPost.
You may also like What to Wear to a Job Interview: Men’s Attire Etiquette Quiz. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, visit her blog, connect with her here on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.
