10 Essentials for Every YP’s Wardrobe
1. Classic Suit A good quality suit can really take your professional wardrobe far. You can break up the pieces for more casual occasions or wear them together for a more sophisticated look. This is one place you don’t want to skimp on fabric quality or fit. Choose a light weight wool in a neutral color like black, grey or tan if you only need one suit. You should expect nothing less than a perfect fit with your suit, so don’t forget to have your suit tailored.
2. White Dress Shirt – The crisp white dress shirt is an American classic. It works well under a suit, with a nice pair of dress pants or with jeans for more casual events. The white dress shirt doesn’t have to be boring either. Pick one with interesting details like a subtle texture for men or a little ruched at the waist for women.
3. Dress Pant – A dress pant is a wardrobe staple that can really take you from day to night. A solid black pair will look great with almost anything from a t-shirt to a sport coat. Brown and grey are great secondary colors to add to your wardrobe, but will not be as powerful for your most professional situations like an interview or presentation. A flat front pant without cuffs is the most modern and flattering for both men and women.
4. Sport Coat/Blazer – A sport coat for men or blazer for women will help you look pulled together and professional, without going for the full suit. It is great to wear for a networking event, client dinners or cocktail hours where others may be dressed more casually, but you want to still look and feel professional.
5. Jeans – Long thought of as only weekend casual wear, jeans do have their place in your work wardrobe. A dark denim will be the most flattering and also look the most professional. Light jeans look too casual as do jeans with heavy stitching, rips or fading. Make sure you pair your jeans with nice quality shoes to keep them looking professional.
6. Sweater – A thin cashmere sweater can be worn with your dress pants or jeans. Chose a style that is classic, like a v-neck for men or a cardigan for women.
7. T-Shirt – All t-shirts are not created equal. A nice quality t-shirt can be paired with dress pants or jeans and layered under a suit coat, sport coat, blazer, or vest. Solids in a dark or muted color are best. Look for cotton fabrics that contain viscose, elastane, or cashmere for a soft and smooth texture and professional look. Men, don’t forget a plain white cotton v-neck t-shirt to wear under your dress shirts.
8. Dress/Tie While your company dress code may not call for you to wear a dress or a tie, these two items are great ways to change up and maximize your wardrobe while remaining current. For women, the Little Black Dress is feminine, slenderizing and classic. The same dress can take you from day to night, by changing out your accessories. For men, a tie is a great form of self-expression. Have fun with different prints and textures. At the very minimum have at least one dark silk tie which can be worn anywhere from a wedding to an interview.
9. Shoes You’ve heard the old saying that shoes make that man. It still holds true and it applies to women as well. Every YP needs a pair of black leather dress shoes that can be worn with a suit or dress pants. Your shoes can be either classic or have a touch of style to make you stand out. The toe box should be contoured rather than boxy to add length to your leg. Shoes with laces are most dressy for men and heals that are sturdy not skinny or wide are business appropriate for women.
10. Watch Nothing says you are man/woman on the move like a watch. A classic metal watch will get you noticed. In fact, it’s the single most important accessory for a man. It does not need to be blinged out with diamonds, just simple, sleek and set to the correct time.
For more information or questions, contact Milena Joy at joy@milenaconsulting.com. Milena Joy is an image consultant, professional speaker, author and founder of Milena Distinctive Image Consulting a full-service image consultancy located in Denver, CO.
