Professional Style Tips

Style 101 for Young Men In my early years as a senior banker, I noticed that young men in the bank needed some guidance on dressing up. I often saw them wearing orange or red shirts with black ties, and black shirts with silver ties. I recalled the time when I was clueless, and took it upon myself to write this guide: 1. If you want to play it safe, wear light-colored plain shirts white, pink and blue. Try white collars and cuffs. Other shirt colors (orange, red, etc.) are tricky. 2. Ties should generally have a darker shade than the shirt. Put a dimple on your tie knot. Avoid the black or gray shirt with light tie combo unless you moonlight for a steak restaurant or a band. 3. Striped ties are better with plain shirts. But if you feel bold and want to wear a striped shirt, the tie stripes should be wider than the shirt stripes. And they should share a similar color. 4. If you are wearing a bold shirt, like a checkered one, wear a plain, sober tie. 5. Wear dark socks that match your pants. If you feel adventurous and want to wear colored socks, do not wear a patterned shirt or striped suit. They will clash. 6. The belt should match your shoes. Don't use a brown belt with black shoes. Better yet, don’t wear a belt at all, like Korean actors. I usually don’t. 7. Wear brown, tan, or burgundy shoes only with pale or navy blue suits. For suits in midnight blue and dark grey, pick dark chocolate brown shoes. Never wear brown shoes with black or near black suits. 8. The coat and pants should match unless you are wearing a blazer or sports coat (more business casual). If you wear a blue blazer, wear gray or khaki pants, avoid blue or black. Contrast is key. 9. The tie should reach the upper part of the belt and not go lower than the buckle. 10. Leave the lower coat button unbuttoned. Do not button everything. Only JFK and preschool boys are exempted from this rule. 11. Show some shirt sleeve, about half an inch, when wearing a coat. If more than an inch shows, have the shirt altered. 12. Slim cut is preferred, and flat front without pleats. Pants should not be too long, with only one break (wrinkle) and not much cloth hanging around the shoes. 13. Finally, if your suit is new, cut the threads from the pocket openings and the vents. You can’t imagine how many times I had to cut the vent threads from new suits of younger bankers. Have it dry-cleaned, especially if the tailor’s chalk marks are showing. One lady CEO still reminds me of the time I pointed out the chalk marks in her blazer. She was just new in the bank then. When having your first suit made, pick navy blue. Next, medium gray. They match most shirts. Then black for special events. Do pinstripes later. Find a good tailor and make him your friend for life. My shirtmaker has done work for my father, my brothers, my sons and nephews. But my suit cutter recently retired and migrated to Canada. (Reposted, per request)

Over the last two years, I’ve been intentional about improving my personal style for professional appearances. Working with a stylist during that time has taught me that looking put-together is less about trends and more about small, repeatable habits. Here are a few practical principles I’ve learned, and how to apply them: 1. Controlled hair + minimal makeup: keep hair pulled back, neatly shaped, or with the ends tucked in (especially with buns or natural styles). Keep makeup clean and restrained — groomed brows, even skin, light definition. 2. Deliberate accessories: choose one metal and make it your default. In my case, I prefer gold because it best accentuates my skin tone. A thin bracelet, simple studs, or small hoops are usually enough. 3. Moisturized skin: keep oil, lotion, or cream on standby. Hands, elbows, feet, and visible areas should never look dry. I treat this as part of grooming, not beauty. 4. Polished lips: carry a clear or nude gloss/balm and reapply before meetings, photos, or recordings. Small detail, noticeable difference. 5. Reliable staples: invest in structured basics you can restyle across multiple looks. Change accessories and shoes instead of rebuilding outfits each time. If you’re refining your personal style, keep this as a quick reference the next time you’re putting a professional look together.

Krish had always been the smartest one in the room—technically sharp, academically brilliant. But when it came to his appearance, he never really cared. Hoodies, wrinkled t-shirts, and mismatched sneakers were his go-to. Now, standing in front of the mirror on the morning of his first job interview, he felt a new kind of stress. He had prepared for every question, every scenario—except what to wear. Sensing this, his mother handed him an ironed, well-fitted outfit. “This belonged to your cousin,” she said with a knowing smile. “I knew you’d stress about this at the last minute.” As Krish walked into the office, he noticed the polished shoes, crisp suits, and confident smiles around him. For a moment, doubt crept in. Do I belong here? But then, he straightened his posture, took a deep breath, and walked in with quiet confidence. The interview went well. At the end, the interviewer smiled and said, "You are well-equipped with knowledge, confidence, and technology, and at the same time, you are well-presentable. That’s what matters.'' And He got the job!! Power Dressing isn’t just about fashion; it’s about presence, confidence, and self-respect. The way we dress speaks before we do. It tells the world how we see ourselves and how we want to be treated. Key Elements of Power Dressing: 💡 Dress for the Occasion – Align your attire with the industry and culture you’re stepping into. 💡 Fit & Comfort Matter – Well-fitted clothes boost confidence and make you feel good. 💡 Colors & Their Impact – Dark shades exude authority, while lighter tones reflect approachability. 💡 Attention to Details – Polished shoes, neat grooming, and minimal accessories enhance the look. 💡 Wear Confidence – The best outfit is one worn with self-assurance. And for Krish—now a successful professional—his mother’s words still echo in his heart: "Wear your confidence like your best outfit. The world will notice." #PowerOfDressing #Confidence #FirstImpressionsMatter #InterviewPreparation #DressForSuccess

I've been thinking a lot about wardrobe fundamentals lately, especially after working with so many clients who struggle with the basics. These are all rules I personally follow with my own wardrobe, and they've never steered me wrong. So, what are the 8 rules every man should know for building a timeless wardrobe? - Invest in quality over quantity. One well-made suit will outlast five cheap ones, and the difference in how you feel wearing it is night and day. - Master the fit first. The most expensive garment in the world looks terrible if it doesn't fit properly. Get your measurements right and find a good tailor. - Build around neutrals. Navy, charcoal, and grey form the backbone of any solid wardrobe. Everything else should complement these foundations. - Choose natural fibres. Wool, cotton, and linen age beautifully and perform better than synthetic alternatives. They're worth the investment. - Perfect your shirt game. A crisp white shirt works with everything. Add light blue and you've covered 90% of your needs. - Invest in proper shoes. Good leather shoes, well-maintained, can last decades. Start with black oxfords and brown brogues. - Understand occasion dressing. Know the difference between business casual and black tie. When in doubt, slightly overdressed beats underdressed. - Maintain what you own. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and timely repairs will extend the life of everything in your wardrobe significantly. These aren't revolutionary concepts, but they're the fundamentals that most men overlook. I see it constantly in my work - guys who've spent thousands on clothes but missed these basics entirely. What would you add to this list? I'd love to hear what wardrobe rules have served you well over the years.

Quick advice for men who need to dress professionally -- especially my brothers in TV news… Look, on-air or off-air, you don’t need to look like you’re auditioning for Mad Men or about to sell me a reverse mortgage. You just need to look clean, sharp, and like you didn’t get dressed in the dark during a 2:30 a.m. wakeup call. Speaking from experience. Here we go… 1. Wear collar stays. Yes, they matter. Yes, you need them. No, your shirt doesn’t “do that on its own.” 2. Stick to white, tan, or blue dress shirts with your suit coat. These are the Jordan–Pippen–Rodman of shirt colors. 3. Match the width of your tie to the shape of your face. Yes, this is a real thing. 4. If you don’t have time to iron (…all of us), go wrinkle-free. Search “non-iron twill” and let modern fabric technology save your life. 5. Avoid blending too many patterns. Plaid jacket? Solid shirt. Solid jacket? Lightly patterned shirt. But plaid jacket + striped tie = you reporting live from the optical illusion district. 6. Don’t wear anything distracting. If viewers remember your tie more than your journalism… you’ve lost. 7. Choosing between tie, pocket square, lapel pin, tie bar? Pick two -- MAX. Any more and you’re basically bedazzling yourself. 8. Know your collar type. I like a spread collar. It frames well, looks clean, and doesn’t make me look like I’m hosting a 1970s game show. 9. Skip white-collared dress shirts unless you’re actively trying to look like a Wall Street villain. 10. Match your shoes and belt. Black-black, brown-brown. And if you match your watch too? Chef’s kiss. 11. Pocket squares don’t have to match anything. In fact, a contrasting color gives a nice pop. 12. And the biggest tip of all -- wear clothes that fit. Revolutionary, I know. But seriously -- save up, get measured by a real clothier, learn what fits YOU. You don’t need custom everything… but once you feel the difference, you’ll be better suited (yes, I said it) to shop for yourself forever. xoxo

People think dressing well at work is about vanity. It isn't. It's about the read someone makes on your level before you've said one word, and that read is happening whether you dressed for it or not. I've walked into rooms and known who the most senior person was before anyone spoke, and it was almost never about who spent the most. It was about who understood what their clothes were showing. 1️⃣ A blazer that actually fits your shoulders. Forget the price tag. A blazer that fits makes you look polished and in control. 2️⃣ A real coat. It's the first thing people notice before you've even taken it off. A great coat sets the tone. 3️⃣ Shoes you keep immaculate. Even the best outfit looks less polished with worn, scuffed shoes. 4️⃣ A structured bag instead of a logo bag. A clean tote reads more senior because it doesn't rely on a label. 5️⃣ One understated piece of real jewelry. A watch or simple gold studs signal quality better than a pile of costume pieces. 6️⃣ Tailored trousers in a neutral. Black, navy, or camel always look polished and intentional. 7️⃣ A white shirt that closes without gaping. Crisp and properly fitted, it projects competence before you speak. None of this is about spending more or chasing trends. It's about understanding that in corporate, you're being read before you're being heard, and making that first impression work in your favor. Comment ELITE and I'll send you The Elite Edge, my no fluff newsletter on the signals that actually move your career. #corporatefashion #workwear #executivepresence #careeradvice #womeninbusiness

For men, grooming is not vanity but a form of communication. How you present yourself speaks long before you do. Your grooming, attire and overall appearance tell others how seriously you take yourself, your work and those you engage with. A well-groomed man communicates confidence, discipline and self-respect - qualities that strengthen a personal and professional brand. I often remind men that grooming is not about trends or luxury; it’s about consistency, intentionality and respect. The goal is to project credibility through simplicity and care. Here are key principles every man should consider: 1. Consistency builds credibility. Good grooming is not a one-time effort - it’s a daily standard. Regular haircuts, neat facial grooming, clean nails and well-pressed clothes show reliability and self-management. 2. Fit and quality matter. Clothing should complement your physique and communicate professionalism. A well-tailored shirt or suit instantly elevates your presence, while poor fit can weaken even the best brand. 3. Subtlety speaks volumes. Whether it’s a light fragrance, a classic watch or polished shoes, understated details communicate refinement. Less is often more - your grooming should enhance, not distract. 4. Pay attention to details. People notice small things - clean shoes, tidy facial hair and fresh breath. These details reinforce that you care about how you show up and by extension, how you handle responsibilities. 5. Grooming reflects discipline. Consistency in appearance mirrors consistency in behavior. A man who takes care of his image signals that he values order, precision and respect - traits every leader and professional should embody. Grooming is more than appearance - it’s part of your personal branding strategy. When you show up well-groomed, you don’t just look confident; you communicate confidence. Remember, your image walks into the room before you do. Let it speak strength, composure and professionalism every time.

Most men don't think about their wardrobe. But SOME do. And when they do, comfort is their main concern. I come across a lot of men who tell me the same thing: "I want to look better, but I don't want to feel restricted." Here's the truth: You don't have to choose between looking sharp and feeling comfortable. The key is understanding fit, fabric, and function. Here's how to style better without losing comfort: 1. Get the fit right Most discomfort comes from poor fit, not the clothes themselves. Too tight? Restrictive.  Too loose? Sloppy.  Find the sweet spot where clothes skim your body without clinging or drowning you. 2. Invest in quality fabrics Breathable cotton, linen blends, and stretchy weaves exist for a reason. They move with you. A good fabric makes all the difference between feeling polished and feeling trapped. 3. Ditch the stiff collar If your work collar feels like cardboard, it's time to upgrade. Softer collars with a natural structure look professional without choking you. 4. Structured doesn't mean stiff A well-tailored blazer should feel like a second skin, not a straitjacket. Look for unlined or half-lined blazers - they're lighter and more breathable. 5. Upgrade your basics Good t-shirts, well-fitted jeans, quality sneakers. These are your foundation. When your basics fit right, everything else becomes easier. 6. Layering is your friend A shirt + blazer combo works for the office. Lose the blazer after work. Same outfit, different vibe. Comfort and versatility in one. The bottom line? Style isn't about suffering. It's about knowing what works for YOUR body and YOUR lifestyle. Want help building a wardrobe that looks sharp AND feels comfortable? Drop STYLE below and my team will get in touch with you

𝐃𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐘𝐨𝐮? Imagine this: You're walking into a high-stakes meeting. Eyes turn, and before you’ve even spoken a word, you’ve made an impression. Now the question is—does that impression say competent, polished, and confident or unprepared, uninterested, and outdated? Your personal style is more than just clothes. It’s a silent language, a tool that communicates your professionalism, leadership, and even attention to detail. And in the corporate world, it can make or break your first impression. Here’s where it gets interesting—your wardrobe doesn’t need to be expensive, but it does need to be intentional. Here are some practical ways to build a personal style that screams success: 1️⃣ Understand Your Role and Goals: What’s your career vision? A sleek blazer with tailored trousers can say “I’m ready to lead,” while softer tones and structured skirts may lean toward approachable authority. Your attire should align with where you want to go, not just where you are. 2️⃣ Master the Art of Versatility: A capsule wardrobe can be your best ally. Invest in timeless pieces—neutral blazers, white shirts, pencil skirts, or tailored pants—that you can mix and match effortlessly. For men, a crisp navy suit can go from boardroom to client dinner with a quick change of accessories. 3️⃣ Pay Attention to Details: Wrinkled shirts, scuffed shoes, or an ill-fitting suit can undo all your efforts. Think of grooming, accessories, and fit as your secret weapons. A well-polished shoe or a classic watch speaks volumes about your attention to detail. 4️⃣ Inject Personality—But Strategically: Corporate doesn’t mean boring. A silk scarf, a statement tie, or subtle patterns can infuse character into your look without overshadowing professionalism. The key? Balance. Let your personality shine, but not shout. 5️⃣ Dress for Confidence, Not Comfort: While being comfortable is important, dressing too casually can send the wrong message. Step slightly above the dress code of your workplace—this subtly positions you as someone aiming higher. And here’s the kicker: your wardrobe evolves with you. As you climb the ladder, your style should adapt to reflect your growing authority and aspirations. 💼 Pro Tip: If you're struggling to create that perfect blend of professionalism and personality, a wardrobe audit is a game-changer. Evaluate what works, what doesn’t, and what pieces can be added to elevate your style. Your clothes aren’t just an investment in fabric—they’re an investment in your brand. Make every outfit count. 👉 Want to master the art of corporate dressing and build a wardrobe that works as hard as you do? Whether it’s a style consultation or a complete wardrobe transformation, I can help you show up as your most confident self. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gRcYN233 Book a free consultation call with me! 👆 #CorporateTraining #ImageConsulting #OneonOne #ImageManagement #NandiniKhanna

Everyone told me that dressing for success was all about looking professional and neutral—they lied. I tried it, and here’s why it’s the biggest mistake you can make. Six months ago, I asked someone, “What’s the secret to making a lasting impression?” They said, “Stick to classic, safe colors like black, white, or navy.” I took that advice and started dressing in muted tones, trying to blend in and play it safe. Yet then, I realized... neutrality isn’t the answer. It’s the quickest way to fade into the background. Harnessing Power Colors isn’t about being loud—it’s about using psychology to influence perception subtly. Here’s what really works when it comes to leveraging the psychology of color: → Red for Confidence and Authority: Wear red when you want to exude power, energy, and determination. Example: Use a red blazer or tie during negotiations to command attention and assert authority. → Blue for Trust and Stability: Perfect for interviews or client meetings, blue conveys dependability and professionalism. Example: A navy suit or a cobalt blue dress can instantly make you appear more trustworthy. → Yellow for Optimism and Creativity: Yellow sparks positivity and innovation, ideal for brainstorming sessions or creative presentations. Example: Add a yellow scarf or accessory to your outfit to energize the room without overwhelming it. → Black for Elegance and Sophistication: A go-to for formal settings, black conveys timeless style and leadership. Example: Opt for a well-tailored black suit to leave a polished impression. → Green for Balance and Growth: Great for situations requiring collaboration, green signals harmony and new beginnings. Example: Incorporate olive or emerald green into your attire for team-building events. → Purple for Creativity and Luxury: Purple symbolizes originality and exclusivity, making it ideal for standing out. Example: A purple tie or blouse can make a bold yet refined statement. Focus on these strategies, and you’ll discover how the right colors can transform not just your wardrobe but also the way the world perceives you. When was the last time you consciously used colors to make an impact? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! Follow me, Aarti Sharma, for more strategies on personal branding and image transformation. #PowerColors #ImageManagement #PersonalBranding #ColorPsychology #ProfessionalStyle #LeadershipGrowth