Once you enter the corporate jungle, you’ll be quick to realize how challenging it is to keep up fashion-wise. Want to look your best every day? Here are the pieces that you need to have.
Looking your best has a lot to do with having the right pieces of clothing and accessories in your wardrobe. But having the most expensive items don’t guarantee that you look like you belong in a room of executives. If you want to make your corporate debut on the top of your game, here are the most crucial wardrobe items that you need:
1. Shoes
Brogue shoes, loafers, oxfords—there are endless styles and variants that you can choose from. But the most important thing is that you have at least one pair of reliable, classic shoes that can go with most outfits. Brogues, for example, are the type of shoes that you should choose if you want a pair that can go with a suit, jeans, chinos, and, if you can pull it off, shorts.
2. Suit
If you work in a place where the dress code is highly formal, you’ll get used to wearing a suit quite easily. If not, you still need at least one suit in your wardrobe for special occasions and formal events.
To look good in a suit, it all boils down to how well it fits you. As much as possible, get a suit tailored for a big event instead of renting, and then wear that suit for more occasions to come. On the other hand, if you’re buying off-the-rack, make sure the suit fits just right across your shoulders. You can always get other parts of the suit altered after, but the shoulders are the most difficult to adjust.
3. Watch
When you shake someone’s hand, apart from your grip, they will almost always notice the watch that you’re wearing. But you don’t need to wear the most expensive brand to make an impression. Be practical. From what you can afford, choose a watch that looks smart yet simple. Leather is an excellent option for smart-casual watches, while metal will go well with more formal settings.
4. Ties
A suit is not complete without a great tie. To complete your wardrobe, you need to have the following types of ties:
- Four-in-hand necktie. Typically worn in offices and formal events, this type of tie is essential for everyone who wears a suit.
- Seven-fold tie. This tie is made from silk with just a bit more surface area than four-in-hand ties. These ties are pricier than other types of ties, so they are more apt for special events.
- Bowtie. A fashionable alternative to seven-fold ties for formal events and special occasions.
5. Shirts
Of course, you need to have an army of great quality shirts that can give your wardrobe variety. You can try bold colors or designs if you want, but don’t forget to invest in the classics first. And again, expensive doesn’t automatically make you look great. You can make almost any shirt expensive and stylish if you press it well, so you better learn this skill as early as possible.
Knowing how to dress well is a skill that is learned through experience. If you want to get ahead, invest in these pieces to have a complete and fashionable wardrobe that will help you look like a boss.
