Suits are fun to wear. A well tailored suit can take pounds and inches off the waistline, add inches in height and create a sense of purpose and authority that people see, understand and accept. That is if the suit is worn properly and with the proper accessories and garments. There are some serious follies that people do to destroy the image that the well tailored suit provides.
Dark Undergarments with Light Suits – This is really something that women tend to do more frequently than men. Women will often wear a fancy and dark colored bra under a light colored shirt. Sometimes dark colored panties can also be seen under a light colored pant, especially if that color tends to be black panties with white pants. Yes, it looks like the pants cover the dark panties, but trust me, we can see them.
- Untucked Shirts – Tucking in your shirt provides the outfit with a sense of neatness that an untucked shirt is quick to ruin. Since the suit is supposed to symbolize authority, wear it appropriately and tuck in your shirt. Remember, you are a professional, not a rebellious teenager.
Sneakers Instead of Dress Shoes – Yes, sneakers are comfortable and many of them are very stylish. They are not appropriate with a suit. They symbolize athletics and fun, not professionalism and responsibility. You are going for a run on lunch and that is why you are wearing your sneakers? Great! You are not running in your suit; change your shoes when you change your clothing.
Socks with Suits – Just as it is inappropriate to wear sneakers with the suit, if you are a woman and wearing fancy shoes, put on a pair of trouser socks. These socks fit like socks but have the feel of nylons. This makes them easier to wear with heels and fancy shoes without looking like you have no idea how to dress yourself. Men, wear socks that are appropriate for that suit. White socks with a dark suit and dark shoes just looks messy.
- Cat or Dog Hair – I have a dog, I know exactly how hard it is to keep animal hair off my suits. By hanging up the suits and running a lint roller over them before going to work, I can enjoy a pet hair free day and maintain that professional feel that is so important to the clients and employees around you.
Just incase you are sitting back and thinking, “Well, I’m just an employee. My suit appearance doesn’t really matter,” let me remind you that your appearance is one of the factors in raises and promotions. In addition, as you walk that final stretch to work, you never know who you are going to come across. You might just find yourself presenting an interview or project to someone you passed on the street and they will remember if you were put together or not.