Job interviews, weddings, dates, oh my! Dressing for these occasions is a difficult task for many men.
It is a challenge to keep up with the styles and faux pas of the ever-changing fashion world.
The first impression is made in less than three seconds, said Josh Davis, sales associate at The Locker Room, a locally owned men's clothing store in Montgomery.
"If this impression is negative, it will take at least 20 minutes to negate these ideas, and this can be detrimental in a job interview or first date," Davis said.
For an interview requiring business formal attire, career counselor Karen Pruett with Career Development Services said employers should remember an interviewee's skills, not his or her outfit.
Flashy ties or shirts are too noticeable. CDS recommends wearing a navy blue or grey suit with a light blue or white shirt. A blazer and slacks are usually not acceptable.
"Black shoes should only be worn with a charcoal or black suit or sport coat," Davis said. "Other color suits and sport coats should be worn with brown shoes."
For weddings, it is better to overdress when in doubt, said Hunter Henry, senior in apparel merchandising, design and production and a member of the modeling board.
"You can always take off your jacket," Henry said.
For a day wedding, Henry suggests khaki pants and a blazer.
However, for an evening wedding, wearing a jacket and tie is the minimum. Henry said wearing a suit is the best option.
Pocket squares can add a nice finishing touch to a formal look, but there are several rules to remember. White pocket squares are appropriate with any combination of shirt, jacket and tie.
"If you choose to wear a colored pocket square, do not choose one that is the same color as your tie, but rather a minor color in your tie," Davis said.
When wearing a suit, Henry said it is important to make sure the jacket and pants fit. When standing up straight with shoulders back, the fingers should be able to cuff around the edge of the sleeve.
Pants should be long enough to touch the top of the shoe, even when sitting down.
Men should choose a dress shirt that has a collar appropriate for their face shape, Davis said.
"If your face is long and narrow, you might want to try a widespread collar to accentuate your positive features," Davis said. "On the other hand, wear a narrow point collar if your face is rounder."
For dates, Henry recommended slacks or dressy jeans and a button-up shirt or sweater.
Whatever the occasion, Henry said to remember to look in the mirror and ask, "What would I think if I saw someone wearing this?"
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