As Lady Bird Johnson said “I’ve really tried to learn the art of clothes, because you don’t sell for what you’re worth unless you look good.” To that point, if office attire isn’t done right, intelligent, well-qualified people run the risk of being overlooked because their appearance alters others’ perception of their qualifications. However, there’s a reason many people are confused about the term business-casual.
It’s logical to assume that business attire should be professional and crisp, while casual wear is associated with the slouchy, comfy weekend tees and sweats. These two terms seem to be at odds with each other. So how do we blend the two?
First, and foremost, don’t leave the “business” out of business-casual. Regardless of the industry, every business is a professional organization that expects its employees to dress with respect. What does that mean? Simply stated, it means no one should come to work looking like they just finished mowing the lawn or came directly to the office from last night’s party. Clothes should be clean and shoes should cover the feet.
Appropriate business casual dress typically includes:
- Men: Slacks or khakis; dress shirt, open-collar or polo shirt; optional tie or seasonal sport coat; loafers or dress shoes
- Ladies: Dress or skirt at knee-length or below; knit shirt, sweater or tailored blazer; casual or dress shoes that cover all or most of the foot
Of course, depending on the industry, some companies may have more relaxed standards that include jeans or sneakers, but even those should be clean and tasteful.
Finally, when companies contribute to the business-casual wardrobe of their employees by giving shirts, sweaters or jackets with the company logo, it’s particularly important to keep in mind that these clothing items are meant to represent the brand as well as the office dress code. When selecting the next trade show shirt, remember that you want the associates representing your company to sell your company for what it’s worth.
The camo trend is back in fashion, and it’s not just for the hunters anymore. Since 2015 the classic camouflage pattern has become nearly as popular with style fashionistas as it has always been with outdoor and sports enthusiasts.
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Vintage-inspired merchandise appeals to every age group. The Baby Boomers used the original and are happy for a newer version; Gen X, the crossroads generation that grew up before the internet, love a remake of anything nostalgic; and Millennials, the tech-savvy crowd that ushered in social media, find relief in all things that remind them it’s ok to slow down a bit.
The Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI) data shows the average American owns 10 promotional products and keeps each one for about 8 months. Why? Because they come in handy. Promotional products that are useful are more likely to be kept longer, thereby increasing the number of impressions for that logo, and building brand awareness.
Many times it’s the small things that people notice and remember. A gesture like a pat on the back after a particularly long workday, or a small note of thanks that’s actually mailed – with a stamp! – to the person that made your day a little better.
Some things never go out of style. Converse sneakers, Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses, the little black dress, a crisp white shirt … and flannel. Flannel was introduced in the 17th century and has enjoyed a popularity that transcends social gaps and genders, making it one of the most timeless of fashions.