Clothes make the man — an age-old saying that remains as relevant as ever, especially when it comes to getting the business look right.
Even if it is rarely said out loud, the right business look can be a decisive key to success in the workplace. That well-known first impression still counts. It is above all about appearance — before a man or woman has even said „good day“. We size up the person in front of us in fractions of a second, and our brain forms an opinion automatically.
When it comes to the perfect business outfit, a few simple rules apply — but they can decisively shape that first impression. Following these simple rules allows anyone to appear immaculately dressed.
The greatest pitfalls of the business look
One of the most common mistakes — sadly still made by many seasoned executives when choosing their wardrobe — is a badly fitting suit: sleeves or trousers that are too long, shirt collars that are too tight, and unsuitable shoes. Even today, many executives fall into these traps when putting together their business look. Yet these pitfalls are easy to avoid. Here the rule is class over quantity: it is better to invest in a few carefully chosen pieces — ideally bespoke suits.
Shoes, too, are often painfully neglected. This is where most of the disasters happen. Yes, „disaster“ is the right word, because many gentlemen unfortunately wear their shoes only to keep their feet dry. They think no one will notice — it is all the way down there. Wrong! Everyone sees them, they just do not tell you how dreadful your shoes look.
The shirt is another area full of potential pitfalls. It begins with the choice of fabric. For everyday business wear, pure cotton in discreet patterns and colours is state of the art. The tailor’s art lies in cutting a shirt so that after two minutes it feels like a second skin. The workmanship is a hallmark of exclusivity — no button should fall off after a single wear.
As your attention moves further up the outfit, you arrive at the shirt collar. This too deserves special attention. A hand-sewn tie — „five-fold or seven-fold“ (the Italian method of construction) — can be recognised by the knot. Please, no more double Windsors; this knot is simply no longer of our time. Anyone wishing to wear a bow tie is welcome to, but please tie it yourself — that much time must be found.
Good style can be learned
Just as we first had to learn to read in primary school, good style must also be learned. Style is not a matter of talent, but of consciously engaging with the subject. A good business look forms the foundation of a stylish wardrobe.
Further reading:
The full article with all tips and tricks appeared in Tourbillon #53.