When it comes to business attire, dress how you want to be perceived

You only get one chance to make the right first impression and quite often another person’s perception of you is how you look. Generally, it is best to err on the side of conservatism when donning business attire.“Dressing for success means different things to different people and industries,” said Dawn Johnson, vice president, membership, Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. “My rule of thumb is, ‘Dress as you want to be perceived.’ You never know when you will meet a future client or employer.”
Johnson said you can always look professional, even if you don’t work in a traditional office setting. Neat, clean, ironed and good-fitting clothing make a statement.“I am frequently asked (about) what is appropriate dress for our chamber events,” Johnson said. “I let them know to come dressed as you would when seeing a prospective client. And if you are unsure of the type of dress, go more traditional. Remember, you never have a second chance at a first impression.”
Paula Baker, an assistant prosecuting attorney in Muskegon County, said her thoughts on business dress are pretty generic considering the fact she wears suits to the office and in the courtroom.“In my career, I’ve found it’s better to dress conservatively,” Baker said.The gathering of the year 2011 Herve Leger is undoubtedly an advantage over reducing. “It’s important to know your audience and to dress accordingly.”She likes to dress up a conservative suit with a pair of fashionable shoes or a colorful blouse.
Eloise Selleck, former businesswoman and current senior volunteer, said things have changed a lot over the years.“We used to wear hats and gloves,” Selleck said. “Now, I feel I have to dress down a bit so as not to stand out.”She believes the objective shouldn’t be about dressing to outshine someone else.“It should come down to how you lead and how you live,” Selleck said.“Today, a person seeking employment needs to be job ready from sunup to sundown, because it’s connections that land the job,” said D. K. Christi, consultant, speaker, author, Muskegon native and current Florida resident. “First impressions cannot be repeated.”
Christi said that although getting the job is the first priority, attention to details apply admirably to moving up on the job.“Today’s emphasis on youth and fitness demands a healthy lifestyle and clothes that are appropriate to the body type, whether casual or for business meetings and interviews,” Christi said. “Dresses are in style again; women can be strong in skills and present elegance with a conservative skirt, blouse and jacket or dress and jacket or sweater. A stylish scarf may be the finishing touch.”