Professional Image Basics For Men

 "Men must realize that 55% of their power is directly related to their visual image" says Betty DeHaven, Executive Director of the Crowning Touch National Image Organization. 

To help enhance this power, it is important to invest in a good wardrobe. This need not be an expensive venture.  Armed with the knowledge of where to spend his money, a man can dress for success on any budget.

A Good Basic Suit

Solid, basic color (black, blue, gray).  High quality fabric (wool or wool blends).  It MUST fit well!  Pay attention to length of jacket and sleeves.  No pulling around stomach and backside when buttoned.  Smooth look along back and pant.  Current but not trendy.  Shop a quality suit store, then visit a good tailor.

Shoes

The key to footwear is to buy leather. Vinyl is uncomfortable and looks cheap.  Save fabric for casual looks.  A lace-up style serves well in business, day or evening.  Shoes should never be lighter in color than the trousers.  Black shoes will blend with any navy or gray pant, brown with all shades of tan, brown, or beige.

It is critical to keep shoes polished and intact.  Worn heels and scuffed toes will ruin your chance to project a polished, professional image.  Give your shoes a 24 hour break. The leather will have a chance to return to its original shape and the shoes will last longer. 

Socks

Nylon or thin cotton socks with no patterns or designs are the best choice.  The color should match the trousers as closely as possible.  The sock must cover any bare skin when sitting.  You do not want the attention to be on your feet so don't make your socks a focal point.

Briefcase

A briefcase is a powerful addition to a wardrobe.  I recommend investing in leather.  It will last longer and can be maintained and repaired easier.  The most polished look is briefcase, shoes and belt in the same color and leather value.  A good choice is black or brown.

Coats

The most professional overcoats are the classic, trench-coat style.  I recommend black, navy or taupe; these colors will not show soil as well.  A zip-in lining can carry one coat throughout the year.  If you choose to own a topcoat for warmth I recommend wool, cashmere, or camel hair in dark colors.  Both the trench and topcoat length should cover the knee but no longer than mid-calf.

Shirts

The most professional, crisp, sharp look for a man's shirt is white or off white (based on your color analysis).  Shades of yellow, pink and blue, or a thin pinstripe are acceptable.  Remember my "rule of three"; never three patterns in your suit, shirt, and tie.  If you shirt has a stripe your tie or suit should be solid. 

Long sleeves look most professional because they show less bare skin.  The looser the weave of a fabric the more casual it is. 

The most important aspect of a professional look in your shirt is that it is clean, pressed (a little starch) and not worn at the collar or cuffs.

Ties

The tie is the most important part of a man's look.  It is his statement and should be used to his advantage.  Know the different types of ties and the message they send.  Colors should blend with the shirt, suit, and most important your skin tone, hair color, and eyes. 100% silk only.  The correct length should touch the belt buckle.  The width of a tie changes with fashion.  The width will tell if your tie is current.

Jewelry

Be careful of too much jewelry for a professional look.  Tasteful rings, chains, bracelets, and watches in gold or silver are acceptable.  In a professional environment, men should not wear any skin piercing jewelry.

Finishing Points

Good grooming is where a professional image should start and end.  Good grooming shows confidence, success and positive attitude. 

Hair styles should not have to be fussed with or fall into face.  The cleanest, most efficient and businesslike look is a hair style that does not touch the collar. No facial hair.  Visit your hair styles every 4 weeks, more if necessary. 

The most often overlooked aspect of a man's image is his hands.  Clean, well-groomed hands and fingernails tell a lot about what kind of person you are.  When you extend your hand to shake hands, make sure it will get the positive response you are looking for.

Contact us for more information about our men's image programs.