Top Ten Fashion Musts - The Corporate Edition

Tue, 14 Feb 12

With business in full swing for 2012, it’s important that your enthusiasm in the boardroom is matched by an equally professional wardrobe. This year, Shirt Studio has compiled a list of ten corporate commandments that will be sure to transform your outlook on what to wear to work.

1. Research:  As with every aspect of business, the key to success is planning. It’s important to prepare your outfits for day to day business, as well as picking out special pieces for important occasions. Be sure to have an outfit pressed and hanging the night before; don’t leave the ironing for the morning rush.
2. Culture:  If you are new to the job, investigate the culture of the industry and the appropriate dress code at your workplace. If in doubt, observe your boss’ dress standard and follow suit.
3. Footwear:  Scuffed points and peeling soles are never acceptable in the workplace and your colleagues will always notice worn shoes. For the men, classic Italian tapered shoes (including loafers and lace ups) are the best selection for the office. Women should opt for conservative ballet flats or even a pair of classic black pumps or nude heels.
4. Seasons:  Comfort is also key for corporate dressing, which is heavily dependent on season conditions and weather. An unlined jacket is a good alternative for the warm Australian climate, as are Shirt Studio’s range of 100% cotton shirting. A shirt dress is another option for the ladies to keep cool in the summer season.
5. Shirting:  If you are stuck on how to build your corporate wardrobe, keep the 5 must have shirts in mind. These include: a classic white shirt, a blue-striped shirt, French-cuffed shirt, a solid blue, a check style for summer and a dinner shirt (a white ruffle is a great dinner option for women).
6. Cleanliness:  It is essential that all items in your corporate wardrobe are washed, pressed and remain in a good condition. By taking care of clothing, you are extending the life of your wardrobe and saving money in the long run.
7. Suits:  To keep suits in perfect condition, they should be washed as little as possible (without compromising cleanliness of course). Groom the suit with a clothing brush after each wear and take suits to a dry cleaner for a professional cleaning service from time to time.
8. Accessories:  Keep the finer details of your outfit classic and simple, including a conservative watch, matching jewellery and a clean bag or briefcase. Neck ties should be coordinated with a colour accent in the shirt and a pair of cufflinks is handy in silver or gold.
9. Grooming:  Ask your hair stylist or barber for a cut that doesn’t need constant attention. Remember that aftershave and perfume must be inoffensive, as many people in your office may have allergies. Less is always more for makeup and nails should be kept clean and short.
10. Personality:  As well as taking in the consideration of your industry, it’s also important to develop a strong sense of personal style with dressing. Think about your style icons and how you can interpret their style simply in an office environment. Opt for a shirt in a colour that flatters your skin tone or alternatively, choose a nice stripe pattern with a unique contrast.