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IN a recent workshop organized by a local
pharmaceutical company, I was asked to give a talk on corporate
dressing as the company wanted a more professional look for their
medical representatives especially since they deal with a lot of
medical professionals.
Maintaining a professional look
in business is imperative at all time. I’m sure you will agree
with me that in and out of business, appearance is the most powerful
tool of communication. You are judged based on how you look. Looking
good can boost your self-esteem and confidence, and remember that
how you dress will not only reflect on your strengths and
capabilities but also on the company you represent.
I made a list of what is business
formal and business casual for both men and women so readers of Life
& Times will have a guide in the proper way of corporate
dressing.
Power dressing is synonymous with
the color of your suit. The darker the suit, the more authoritative
you look.
Basic business wardrobe for men:
• Solid color suits ( black,
gray, navy blue)
• Pinstripe or chalk stripe
suits
• Pinstripe of solid shirts
• Dress socks (solid colors)
• Black leather belt
• Leather briefcase
• Black laced up or slip on
shoes
• Leather or stainless steel
watch
Remember this rule on wearing a
three-piece ensemble—the color of your shirt must be lighter than
your suit, but the tie must be darker than the shirt
The four types of business shirt:
• Standard collar—is the most
common of all shirt collars. Dressier than the button down shirt. It
looks best when starched and pressed.
• Button down collar—is the
most popular and appropriate for business as well as casual and
informal wear. It should not be worn for formal wear
• Round collar—elegant and
distinctive. It is not corporate and should be work only for casual
and fun occasions.
• Pin collar—this is a more
formal collar. It is often worn with a three piece suit
Business/smart casual for men
• Chinos or dockers type
trousers
• Long sleeved polo shirt (with
collar)
• Short sleeved polo shirt
(with collar)
• Loafers or lace up shoes
• Golf shirts are acceptable
• Short sleeved shirts with
company logo
Business formal for women:
Understated elegance
• Black, gray or navy pant or
skirt suit
• Solid color blouse (pastels
are fine)
• Black pumps; navy or taupe
pumps
• Black leather handbag
• Black, brown or burgundy
briefcase
• Pearls or stud earrings
Business/smart casual for women
• Neatly pressed chinos are
acceptable
• Casual skirts (A-Line.
Straight cut)
• Dress slacks
• Cotton shirts in solids,
prints or muted plaids
• Cardigans (not too tight)
• Low heeled shoes or boots
(with nylons or socks)
Proper business attire never
includes the ff:
• Jeans
• Athletic wear
• Leggings
• T-shirts
• Bare midriffs
• Any kind of workout clothes,
running or gym shoes, sneakers or sandals
• Hats, caps
• Ripped or tattered clothing
• Extremely tight fitting or
sheer revealing blouses
• Short skirts or suggestive
clothing
For school and office lectures
email: paching_betita@yahoo.com
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