Businesswear

[skeen]

I'm just learning about suits, but I'm as of yet unable to discern the difference between businesswear, and fashionwear. I need some businesswear - a suit, and shoes which are appropriate for business, and do not make me look like I'm on a date!

What would you say defines businesswear when it comes to suits? Shoes I think are probably easier.

 

[v0rtex]

Originally Posted by skeen

I'm just learning about suits, but I'm as of yet unable to discern the difference between businesswear, and fashionwear. I need some businesswear - a suit, and shoes which are appropriate for business, and do not make me look like I'm on a date!

What would you say defines businesswear when it comes to suits? Shoes I think are probably easier.

Business suits are supposed to blend in, to present a "uniform of business" which communicates stability and confidence without being too flash, avant-garde or anything else which may offend.

So that means well fitted (but not too slim), conservative colors, classic details (ie. 2 or 3 button, notch lapel) and in good condition.

Depending on where you conduct business you can relax this as you see fit - I'd get laughed out the door for wearing such a suit into one of the graphic design firms I work with, but if I were meeting with Japanese bankers I would be following that convention to the letter.

 

[Zenny]

Fashion suits are usually cut very very skinny and tight (Dior

), have shorter jackets, tiny (or huge) lapels and tapered pants. Buttons may range from 0 to 5+ (ive seen an 11 button jacket) Accompanied with this look is the lack of a tie, or a loosely done up tie.

 

[mensimageconsultant]

In the UK, USA, and many other places, black tailored attire is not considered appropriate businesswear for men. Though many young men wear it anyway.

 

[Cary Grant]

Originally Posted by mensimageconsultant

In the UK, USA, and many other places, black tailored attire is not considered appropriate businesswear for men. Though many young men wear it anyway.

By the cognoscenti, yes... but the many thousands of businessmen, including too many CEO's would beg to differ.

 

[kdaust]

In London, dark suits rule the workplace.

So start with a few basic dark suits, white or blue french cuff shirts, some black shoes; then watch how your superiors at work dress and follow their lead for anything more adventurous.