Professional Dress in the Winter

While summer is the time when most business image faux pas are made, winter brings its share of fashion eyesores. Here are some image tips to remember as you begin to change from warm weather clothing and bundle up for the commute and the chilly office.

Keep the pockets of your suits sewn closed. Most suits are sold this way. If not, stitch or have a tailor stitch the pockets in your suits closed. This will create smooth lines and eliminate bunching.

Purchase a high quality navy blazer. It can be worn with all neutral colors except black and dark brown.

When you wear trousers, make sure your blazer and trousers contrast in color and texture. Don't treat your suit as separates unless it was sold that way. Most suit pieces do not work well alone.

Lightweight cotton suits, jackets and trousers should no longer be worn. Wear darker color khaki with a wool gabardine jacket in a business casual environment.

White after Labor Day is fine but the garment should be made of wool. A winter white suit and blazer are stunning. But white shoes are for nurses in summer and winter.

Thin soled shoes should be replaced with heavier soles. You should not wear light colored shoes now or throughout the rest of the winter season.

Women should wear blouses with long sleeves or a jacket over a short sleeve blouse and coordinate the color value of your shoes to your nylons for the most slimming elongated look. When wearing dark colors, such as gray, you can match the color of your shoes and pantyhose with your skirt color.

Remove your lined, waterproof boots as soon as you get to the office. Don't wear them all day. They are too awkward and heavy.

Wear shoes in a darker shade than your hosiery. Wear a belt that is a bit darker than your trousers. The belt should match your shoes in color and material.

Wear leather gloves in black or brown. Knit gloves are for children.

Pastel colors are fine as long as the garment is a knit or wool, such as cashmere or merino.

Choose small stripes, plaids and geometric patterns for clothing and accessories. Floral patterns, especially small prints, do not mean business.

Do not allow your skirt or dress to hang below your coat. That is a very unprofessional look.

And finally, remove the little tag on silk scarves, wear a belt in belt loops and if you are petite and your sleeves are too long, take the garment to a tailor for altering.


Write and tell me of winter image tips I may have left out.