New Jersey Enterpreneur - Small Business, Entrepreneurs and Venture Capital

Summer’s almost over and as we begin to think about our fall wardrobe I just want to remind readers of five of the most common business casual mistakes:

• Not keeping accessories in the same level of the clothing. Just as you wouldn’t wear sneakers with a business suit, you shouldn’t be wearing cap-toe or other dress shoes with business casual. Remember that the thicker the sole of the shoe, the more casual it is. Conversely, for women, stay away from flip-flops, even those with a heel. Mules, slingbacks and pumps are all better choices for business.
• Thinking that fit isn’t so important any more. Clothing that is too big is as unflattering as clothing that is too small. They will both make you look heavier. Just because your outfit doesn’t include a tailored suit doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t be tailored to fit your body.
• Believing that sexy is okay because at least it gets you noticed. You must ask yourself if that is the kind of attention that you want professionally. It’s hard to take someone seriously if your attention is focused elsewhere. When getting dressed for business remember that less exposure is more.
• Not considering your audience or your day’s activities when getting dressed. There are different levels of business casual and you would wear something different when presenting a proposal to a business casual client than when working alone or leading an internal meeting. Consider who you’re meeting with and what your role is in the get-together.

Wearing unflattering colors or exaggerated patterns. It is true that business casual presents more color options than professional dress, but they’re not all appropriate for business. Neutrals such as blue, black, brown, tan and gray still are the safest option, worn with accent colors in shades that are flattering for you – red, yellow, and turquoise are often good choices. Patterns should be no bigger than the size of two quarters and generally only one pattern should be worn at a time.

ImageDesign L.L.C. is a full service style and image consultation company.
ImageDesign offers programs to corporations and non-profit groups on topics relating to image such as Professional Dress, Business Casual, Business Etiquette and Non-Verbal Communication. ImageDesign can help write your company's dress code policy, provide employees with positive
examples of appropriate office dress and assist with compliance  Sharon may be contacted at sharon@imagedesignconsulting.com