Research suggests that September is traditionally a good month to look for a job.
A well-fitting suit will boost your confidence and professionalism, whether you are preparing for an upcoming interview or making a great first impression in your new position.
Declyn Cooper from Slater Menswear’s Head of Tailoring has shared his tips for choosing the right suit.
Declyn says: “The final decision on a suit will be based on your preferences, so that you are comfortable all day. There are some details that you should consider when dressing for work, such as style, fabric, and colour.
Dress code for the office
First, it is important to know the dress code. This is especially true when you are starting a new position. If the dress code is casual, you don’t need to wear a suit. However, wearing jeans and a jacket when the dress code is formal can make it look as if you didn’t put any effort in.
“Before buying a suit, ask your manager about the dress code so that you can make an informed decision.”
Style
The type of suit that you will need depends on the formality of your workplace. A two-piece suit is the best choice for workwear, even though a three piece suit has impressive tailoring.
“A tailored fit is also best for the workplace, as it’s sleek and tapered pants still have a comfortable feel — perfect for those who spend most of their day sitting down.
If your workplace is casual business, you can lose the tie for a more relaxed look. You can sometimes ditch the blazer and go for a smart combination of trousers, shirt, and brogues instead .”
The fabric
Wool is a very popular choice for business suits due to its durability and refined aesthetic. If you take care of your wool suit, it should last for many years. You won’t need to replace it too often.
Wool suits can be worn throughout the year, even though they provide warmth in colder months. Wool’s natural fibres allow body heat to escape in hot weather and to be trapped when it is cool.
If your workplace has a casual dress code, you may want to consider investing in a linen suit. Remember that linen is prone to creases, so you will need to dry clean it regularly in order to keep the suit looking new.
The color
“In terms of the color of your suit for the workplace, you have three choices: grey, navy or charcoal. Black is a versatile color, but it’s often seen as being too formal.
The versatility of navy allows it to be worn in different styles. You can pair a navy suit with different shirts and add some personality and colour with a brighter tie.
“A charcoal suit is the perfect alternative to black. It’s a sophisticated option for any gentleman. Black suits are best paired with black accessories. Charcoal is more versatile, and can be matched with a variety of colours. It will be easier to choose a shirt-and-tie combination.
The lighter shades of grey are best for summer, because they reflect heat instead of absorbing it.
“If you work in a more relaxed environment, a subtle checked suit will add a touch to distinction.”
HR News published the first version of the article September job surge: how to choose a perfect suit for your work.
