Getting it right with work attire

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The right fabric, the right fit, the right color palette — fashion changes quicker than you can say “faux pas.”

Never is the fashion divide more important or daunting than the transition from college to the work place. The typical wardrobe staples of jeans and tank tops that look great strutting down Grand River Avenue won’t cut it walking on Wall Street. Building a professional wardrobe takes time, effort and, most importantly, money. Fortunately, there are a couple of always-stylish basics to get you through the interview and into the office.

For anyone in a professional work place, a well-fitting jacket is a must have, said Kim Petroelje, who owns a boutique in Holland, Mich.. She said the first major purchase of any aspiring executive should be a jacket in an all-season fabric in either black or charcoal gray. Men should aim for a suit in basic gray or navy. The average person will get a ton of mileage out of their first jacket, so this is one area where paying a little extra will save you money in the long run. Banana Republic offers many relatively inexpensive options for men and women, ranging from $150 to $425. Ann Taylor offers women many types of suit jackets in well-made fabrics ranging from $99 to $229.

The keys when buying a suit is a proper fit.

“There’s a lot of people who never learn how to buy a suit,” said Jack Dozeman, owner of Jack Dozeman Clothier. “It’s a lost art form.”

Dozeman is a professional clothing consultant who specializes in helping clients build a wardrobe. The most important aspect of good wardrobe is good tailoring. He said the easiest way to a successful wardrobe is to establish a relationship with someone who knows the ropes when it comes to buying and tailoring a suit. There are so many potential pitfalls when it comes to choosing a suit, it helps to have a mentor to explain the difference between double-breasted versus single-breasted and french cuffs versus barrel cuffs. Find someone you trust in a store you like and establish a relationship. Having a trusted adviser and tailor will keep you looking your best, Dozeman said.

What you wear underneath the suit requires as much thought and care as the suit. There’s also a little more room for self expression. Although, there are several must-haves where you can never go wrong.

“We’re all victims of what they’re showing every year,” Petroelje said. “But you can never go wrong with a crisp white shirt.”

A well-made white button-up shirt or silk shell is absolutely essential. It’s one of the few items in fashion that never goes out of style. Skirts and dresses also play a big role in a woman’s professional wardrobe. A sleek pencil skirt or simple sheath under a jacket make for a killer combination, Petroelje said. Skirts should be knee-length and invest in pantyhose that match your skin tone and your legs.

Flashing your legs is a no-no for men, too. Dozeman suggests buying socks that fit midway up the calf in solid gray or navy. That way, when you cross your legs, your pants don’t gape and reveal your calf. For the rest of your wardrobe, keep it simple. Shoes should be clean and classic. A nice bag in patent leather goes a long way in making a good first impression.

Ultimately, the most fashionable thing you need to nail a work wardrobe is good insight into what’s appropriate for your workplace. Dress codes vary, so use good judgement. Workplace fashion can range from very strict to almost nonexistent. The important thing is to be comfortable and confident.

“How you dress will help you succeed in your job,” Dozeman said.

“It takes time and effort, but it will pay dividends in the end.”

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