Will you rather be stylish at work or just plain dull?
Have you ever wondered if you are doing it right when selecting your outfit for work or a job interview?
Are you confused about the proper dressing for that board meeting you have at work?
Well, dressing and fashion generally are not as easy as it seems because there is no particular formula to it so it gets dicey sometimes and it is even more confusing for men. This is why I have decided to tell you briefly about some of the fashion mistakes you might be making as a man in a corporate environment.
Fashion mistakes are common in the corporate environment because it is easier to combine almost anything when going for a casual outing or gathering than going for a formal or professional occasion. The right color of the shirt comes in, the tie, how to wear a jacket, what color of socks, appropriate shoes and all that. So I will be writing on some of these mistakes and also provide a guide to help when selecting that outfit for work on Monday.
Ready?
Let look at some of these fashion mistakes you might be making.
#1: Oversized Trousers
It is repulsive and totally unattractive to allow your un-hemmed, loosely flowing suit trousers to puddle over the tops of your shoes. Your trousers (whatever the style) should only ever touch the tops of your shoes, and there should be no bunching of fabric at all in order to look smart and ready for work.
#2: Pattern Overdo
Patterns are becoming a trend in fashion for men in recent times but it takes a lot of skill and in-depth knowledge on fashion and dressing generally to be able to pull it off. However, a lot of mistakes are made as regards how to combine the patterns.
Below is a guide for that:
#3: Wearing Leather Trouser
Any item of clothing that is not a leather jacket should NOT be leather. It is as simple as that. I see men wearing leather pants that are so shiny and tight. It is a major fashion mistake made by men. Just buy regular jeans or khaki or chinos preferably chinos in a corporate environment for a more decent and attractive.
#4: The Jacket Fit
Wearing an oversized suit jacket is a common mistake made by men and it usually looks unattractive and scruffy. When getting a suit jacket, it is advisable to buy your exact size or one size bigger in order to have a perfect and decent fit.
#5: Wearing Beachwear in A Corporate Environment
Hot weather conditions can reduce a well-suited man to look sweaty and unappealing. This, however, is not an excuse to pull up at work in shorts and a t-shirt looking more like a beach outfit. Neutral colored chinos trouser with a corporate shirt and probably brogues shoes would be a better fit and more decent appearance.
#6: Knots and Collars
Most men do not realize it, but not all collars were created equal. Some are narrow, some are wide, some are in between. You can wear whatever type of collar you want, but how you tie your tie must match it, lest you look like an unprofessional fool. Wide collars require large knots while narrow collars require small knots
#7: Fastening the Bottom Button
Suit jackets have two or three buttons. Regardless of the number, remember this simple rule. Never, ever, ever button the bottom button. For a two-button jacket, button the top one. For a three-button, the middle one and, if you like, the top one too.
Under no circumstances should the bottom button be fastened. For one, the suit will not move correctly on your body.
What’s more, when seated, men’s jackets should be unbuttoned. If not, they don’t hang correctly and make your body look strange. When you go to sit down, you shouldn’t be fumbling with buttons like you’re trying to extract yourself from a straight jacket. If only one is closed, one simple clean motion has your coat open so you can sit down.
#8: Wearing A Long Sleeve and A Tie
There is nothing wrong with wearing short sleeve corporate shirt with a trouser in a corporate environment. The fashion error, however, comes up when adding a tie to that outfit. It is not only off, but it is also not ideal or acceptable unless you work for a fast-food joint where sleeves get dirty making the meals. They are generally perceived as lower class apparel so if you want to stay looking professional and confident, stick to long-sleeve shirts when wearing ties.
#9: Wearing Wrong Sock Colors
It is a common mistake for men to wear socks the color of their shoes. When you’re wearing a suit, match your sock color to your pants, not your shoes for professional and formal occasions. If you’re wearing a navy blue suit with black shoes, it is appropriate to reach for navy blue socks.
No matter what you choose to wear, the office is a place where you might be pulled into a meeting with the CEO or important business partners at the shortest of notice. This should always be at the back of your mind as you choose your office dressing. Choose what is comfortable, clean, look good on you but also remember, it is still a professional environment.
What office fashion mistake do you think most men make without realizing it? We love to hear from you in the comments.
by Deborah Owuzo
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