How to dress to your audience the Obama way

Thu, 30 Sep 10

The latest blog from our Corporate/Business Director

While watching a documentary on Barak Obama the president of the United States I started to notice the way Barak Obama dressed while giving a number of speeches.

This gave way to what Shirt Studio always says about dressing to your audience; The rule of thumb is that you always dress one step above your audience or potential client that you meet.

So how does this rule apply to the most powerful man in the world? It is a rule that all politicians live by….to wear shirts that are white and use a tie to lift up the outfit. The suit needs to be dark and conservative. The reason for this is so that the media or the potential voters and audience are not detracted away from the message at hand.

With Mr Obama I identified that with different audiences he was presented in a different way. For example when he was at a rally with the voters and supporters, Mr Obama has his white shirt on with his sleeves rolled up. This is showing that he is ready to work and at the same time has no problems in getting down on the coal face if need be. The colour tie he wears is also a bit brighter in colour - reds and purples are more welcoming colours that make the audience feel comfortable.

When Mr Obama is meeting a head of state or making an address to congress he is in a dark suit, white shirts and dark tie. Jacket is buttoned up. This means business! In a way he is saying that I am ready for business and have something of worth to say to my peers.

So next time you are meeting with a client or giving a speech, think about how you are wearing your clothes not just what you are wearing. Going to sell to a mechanic in a suit and tie will never go down well, if anything they will feel intimidated and unwilling to talk to you.

Anoop Anchal