Top fashion tips for IT executives
First impressions count for everything in a competitive market and although we can’t all be Carrie Bradshaw, we can most certainly try. Whether you are a 1st line support analyst or CIO, I’m a firm believer that no matter who you are meeting you have to be suitably dressed.
At the end of the day not only are you representing your company, but how you dress is also a reflection of your personality. Working professionals simply cannot look as if they have no idea where the iron is or don’t own a hairbrush. Pointing out the obvious, but if you look scruffy and a mess, you are hardly giving any confidence that you can do your role in an organised, structured manner.
I drove my team insane with my persistent talk of outfit choice for a haute couture retailer I was meeting a few months back, to the point that I asked my manager, “what are you going to wear? It had better be good!” It may seem unnecessary, but if I’m dressed in a way that makes me feel good, I’m going to walk into the meeting feeling confident. Furthermore the client will (hopefully) see that I’ve taken an interest in showing that I know about their market and will be able to represent them. Of course this doesn’t mean that you can wear any outfit; there always has to be a clear element of professionalism, and it really starts with a few basics:
- If your suit is pinstriped, it’s an absolute crime to wear a spotted shirt with a spotted or striped tie. Quite frankly its hypnotic and will make anyone feel quite queasy. There is nothing more attractive than a smart, plain well-fitted suit with a white shirt and a good tie. At the end of the day you want the client to be focusing on what you’re saying, not sat there thinking that you’re coloured blind and just rolled out of bed.
- Ladies, we have more flexibility in what we can wear, but there is nothing more empowering than wearing a suit with a pair of killer heels. This doesn’t mean that you can wear the shortest skirt with a revealing blouse - definitely not something that we want to promote. It’s more difficult for men to jazz up their outfits, but equally we should wear things that look professional and match their suit in terms of sophistication.
- As well as the investment of a good suit this has to be teamed up with good shoes and, if required, a belt. I’m sorry, even if you wear Calvin Kleins, no one needs to see them. Don't draw attention to dirty or scuffed shoes as these are an eyesore, so make sure you keep them clean and shiny.
- Dressing appropriately for your market is important - this also includes ensuring that your hair is appropriately styled. As much as painted nails look lovely, there is nothing more 'drag queeny' than too much war paint and chipped nail polish.
- I drive my team crazy with my unlimited drawer of cosmetics to touch up my face, as well as the necessary deodorant and perfume. The way I see things is that you can look the part but no one likes bodily odours, so why not invest in a good perfume or cologne?
- Glasses? Men and women remember – ‘geek is the new chic’ so do not be afraid to wear them, plus its a bonus that you can see who you are speaking to!
- As much as we love Bridget Jones, be prepared for the UK weather and always have an umbrella. There is nothing worse than looking drenched and quite honestly it will ruin your clothing. Take note there is a reason why some items are dry clean only.
- Finally ladies, all outfits should be finished off with a smart work appropriate handbag. You don’t have to spend a fortune on a Louis Vuitton bag, but at least a leather bag to complement your outfit.
On a final note, all of this advice won't work for you if you don't adapt it to make it individual for your style. It’s important to feel comfortable in your own clothes - we are not all perfect Barbie dolls. However if you have bright pink hair, take a step back and think whether it is worth it, to look individual. Wouldn’t you rather jump start your future career? You can adjust a classic style and add tweaks of your individuality, however this needs to be done subtly and remember you are representing your employer at all times.
Stéphanie Lecocq is a specialist IT recruiter focussing in the retail sector, and part-time fashionista.
