It takes 7 seconds to make a lasting impression.
This is all the time it takes someone you’re meeting for the first time to form an opinion about you. When you’re trying to make a lasting positive impression, especially as a young professional looking to enter the corporate world, a well-groomed appearance is vital.
Moving away from the jeans and t-shirt styling favored by students to business professional may seem daunting at first but with the following wardrobe essentials, dressing for work will come easier:
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Blazers
Some companies still strictly follow the traditional suit-tie dress code but the more “business casual” attires are gaining popularity. Blazers allow you blend the elements of casual and formal dressing while achieving a comfy business-like impression.
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Fitted Suit
If you have to wear a suit to work, make sure it’s properly fitted to your body shape and size. An ill-fitting suit, whether it’s too big or too small, will serve to create the opposite of a professional impression.
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Slim Neckties
While neckties are available in various styles, slim is a popular choice for its ability to create a slimmer look, making you seem slimmer and taller. A good tip is to choose a necktie in a colour that contrasts with your shirt colour, preferably a darker shade.
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Chinos
When you’re not wearing a suit and you’re going for business casual, Chinos are the step between overly dressy and too relaxed. Chinos are less formal and you can still wear them to create a professional appearance at work.
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Wristwatch
Regardless of the smartphone presenting a functional alternative, the wristwatch is still a must-have accessory for the young professional. It allows you keep track of time while also adding aesthetic value to your outfit.
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Leather Messenger Bag
You’ve made it into the corporate world, and it’s time to lose the backpack. A high-quality leather messenger bag is a wardrobe essential shouldn’t be overlooked. Brown and black all-leather messenger bags are excellent choices.
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Leather Oxford Shoes
Wearing the right shoes can make or mar your corporate outfit. The subtle, classic look of leather will compliment your appearance, and keep you comfortable all day. These shoes are available in various colors and styles, but you can’t go wrong in traditional brown/tan.