Dress How You Want to be Addressed

Knowing how to dress professionally is extremely important and beneficial today. Both men and women have unstated guidelines that they follow when dressing for work, an interview or even a job fair. When meeting with an individual with authority, it is important to look professional so that you are taken seriously and given respect.

I feel that when the word 'professional' is placed in front of attire, many choke and think that they have to wear very plain clothes and simple colors. There are many ways to dress up without taking it over the top. Both men and women can add pieces to their attire that are unique and reflect who they are while still meeting the 'unstated' requirements of professional dress attire.

Women are strongly judged on how they look on a constant basis. Here are a few tips to remember when dressing for your next business professional adventure!

You can never go wrong with a business suit, a skirt or slacks is okay, just dress for the appropriate weather conditions.

• A button up shirt is always a smart move and looks professional, as long as it's ironed
• Closed toed shoes is a must. Never, ever wear open toed shoes. It just does not fit the part.
• Minimal jewelry is good, you do not want to take any attention away from yourself and what your saying by having annoying, noisy jewelry. 

I had to attend a job fair this week and this is what I wore. 

*Photo credit to S.S.

1. Black blazer with matching black slacks
2. Off white chiffon blouse
3. Black matte close toed shoes
4. Black post earrings
5. Black and chrome brushed statement necklace

I had minimal make-up on and my hair pulled back so that it was out of my face, so those who I spoke with could see who they were talking to.

Here's a link for women who need help with how to dress for different professional occasions!

http://womens-fashion.lovetoknow.com/What_is_Professional_Business_Attire_for_Women

Men have an easier job when dressing for business professional occasions. Here are a few of my suggestions on how males could when going to a job interview or the office!

• A dress suit is a must for men. (Neutral colors it the best decision to make, black, navy, tan)
• Wear a button up shirt that actually fits. This is where you can add some color to your wardrobe. (Men, it's okay to wear pink!)
• A tie with a pattern to add a pop to your outfit is a nice touch and allows you to express your personality.
• Clean black dress shoes are required. Unless you are wear navy, then brown dress shoes are encouraged.
• A watch is a nice finishing touch that will help you look more professional, and it will let you know what time it is!

I was able to take some photos of men that also attended the job fair and this is what they wore.

On the left, Lou Payne:

1. Navy blue button up shirt with olive green slacks
2. A grey, light blue and navy blue stripped tie
3. A brown leather belt
4. Dark brown dress shoes
5. A brown, leather watch

On the right, Eric Bernardo:

1. Navy blue blazer and navy blue slacks
2. A white button up shirt
3. A white and red stripped tie
4. Black dress shoes

Both males are dressed professionally in their own different ways. This just goes to show that men do have options on how to dress differently, just not as many as women do.

Here's a link to for men on how to dress for different professional settings.

http://www.realmenrealstyle.com/dress-sharp-tips-young-men/

For both men and women, it is always better to be over dressed than under dressed. Remember, how you dress at all times reflects who you are and how you want others to view you in the world. Always dress with a purpose so that you are seen as having one.