Standing out from the crowd can be difficult when you work in a very conservative office like a law firm or investment bank. In many companies, dress codes are tightly enforced and even stepping outside of the normal dark navy suit and tie with something as innocent as a pastel colored shirt can attract unwanted attention.
But there are certain times when you want to get noticed, when being a bit more daring with your wardrobe will help the chairman remember your name or when during a presentation you need to drive home the notion that you are unique, different from the average office joe.
To that end, we’ve got five quick tips to help your wardrobe help you.
- Don’t be afraid of color. And by this, we mean colorful suits. Whether you work on Wall Street or Fifth Avenue, a colorful suit is no longer an aberration but instead the mark of someone whose up to date on the latest fashions and trends. If you’re not eager to go all in for a light summer baby blue pinstripe, try a glenplaid or windowpane check with a darker check color and a lighter colored fabric. You’ll get noticed without looking flamboyant.
- Think out of the accessories box. Instead of that staid and boring black leather briefcase, choose a high end but stylish back pack. Wear a quality watch with color. Or choose more subtle details, like a patterned and colorful pocket square.
- Wear awesome shoes. Instead of the staid formal shoes, go for monkstraps or loafers in a classic color that contrasts with your suit. For a navy blue suit, choose a medium brown. For a charcoal grey, go with black or dark green shoes.
- Go for a well tailored, expensive suit one level up from your salary. Try a Dormeuil or Loro Piana fabric in traditional navy and add a high end touch like pick stitching or a Milanese boutonniere. You will outclass your peers and give your boss a reason to take you to lunch more often.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. Perfectionism and fashion aren’t always simpatico. Focus on more subtle details until you feel comfortable trying new and more daring looks.
Knot Standard stylists are expert at finding the perfect details to highlight or emphasize a quiet suit. Let them help you choose your next ‘get noticed’ look. Visit a showroom or our website at www.knotstandard.com.