Dress to Impress: Business Fashion Tips

Whether we like it or not, how we look and how we dress affects how we are perceived by others. That’s why in business, it is so important to project the right image through your fashion. So, I have reached out to the CarolRoth.com contributor network of business owners, experts, advisors and entrepreneurs to find out their best advice for dressing to impress in business. Their answers are presented below in no particular order.

You may notice some similar ideas listed, but I kept them separate, as something in the way one is framed may resonate differently with you.

This article is sponsored by one of Carol’s favorite brands: Number 35. Number 35 makes gorgeous clothes for professionals (Carol has worn them many times on TV!) and they have also provided their own business fashion advice:

“The most fundamental rule for dressing is to know your own style and to recognize its possibilities and limitations. It is important to adopt a mode of dressing that is simple, tasteful and elegant and that accentuates your own character and personality. The result is a new inner confidence and the means to achieve and succeed without boundaries.”

1. Dress Comfortably

Dress comfortably, but don't dress like a slob if you want to dress to impress. First of all, follow the protocol in your office. If jeans are allowed, then wear nice jeans (darker are better) - ones without holes or frays. Dress as though you were going to meet the CEO of the company or customers for the day. That way, you will look like you care about your appearance, which will impress others. Also, dark clothing is reported to make you look more professional.

Thanks to: Becky Boyd of MediaFirst.

2. Shine Those Shoes!!!

One of the best pieces of advice for both men and women trying to impress a client, boss or in an interview is attention to detail. Nothing says detail like your shoes, in particular if they are shined or not.
Shoes that are scuffed or worn say that you are not paying attention to detail, so my simple advice is to make sure that your shoes are shined and looking their best.
The first step to being sharp is looking sharp and that starts with your shoes!

Thanks to: Doug Hecker of 2 Excel Now, LLC.

3. Black or Blue: It Suits You

When it comes to dressing for SUCCESS, the easiest and most widely accepted attire is a blue or black suit. This would be applicable for men or women. Now that said, dressing up the suit with some color is a good idea as well. A colored shirt or blouse and complementary tie or jewelry can make the look complete. Invest in a tailored suit in each color and you will make it very easy to decide for yourself what to wear every day.

Thanks to: Myles Miller of SUCCESSHQ.

4. Always Dress Up and Not Down

When in doubt, wear a suit and tie. If you are sure that business casual will be OK, wear a starched dress shirt, dark trousers, an appropriately matched cashmere sweater, and polished shoes. Jeans and a T-shirt never impress. Stay away from these in all business situations.

Thanks to: Leonard Scott of Leonard Scott & Company.

5. You Look Good to You. So?

Professional is in the eyes of the beholder. Be sure that you dress in a way that looks professional according to the situation, customer/prospect, place, conditions, etc. Making a fashion statement is not as important as making a sale. Being comfortable is not as valuable as making your customer comfortable. Standing out is not as critical as being invited in. As in all things -- the customer is always right.

Thanks to: Janet Christy of Leverage & Development, LLC.

6. Clean Up Your Act!

How times have changed when it comes to dressing professionally in the workplace. Where do I start? I could suggest that males need to be cleanly shaven - get rid of this stubble nonsense. Or tuck your shirt in. No, my suggestion is wear a tie. This is heresy to Virgin Group founder Richard Branson. However, a properly tied tie makes for a strong impression when worn with a sports jacket or suit.

Thanks to: Jim Taggart of Taggart Leadership Consulting Inc.

7. Comfort before Style

When you "dress up" for business, I recommend that you favor physical and emotional comfort before style. If wearing high heels or tons of make-up makes you feel like you're wearing a costume, then don't do it. Otherwise, your focus will be divided when you have your meeting and you may appear uneasy to others. Also, your clothes should not be the primary focus of those you are meeting. If people are paying more attention to your clothes than they are to you, you've missed the mark!

Thanks to: Monique Y. Wells of Understanding Time Management.

8. Be Memorable!

Wear appropriate business attire, but let your personality and individuality shine through! Whether your signature piece is a pin or a scarf, or even a belt, let your presentation pop with a more noteworthy accessory. But don't get carried away...too many embellishments can clutter up an outfit and end up looking overdone. And never ever chew gum. Ever.

Thanks to: Kendra Kroll of Undercover Solutions, LLC.

9. One Notch Above

The concept of dressing for success is: Dress one notch above the customer. If your customer is on the beach, on a construction site or farming in the field, a 3 piece suit is out of place- a far more casual dress is appropriate. If your client wears Armani, then you should too. Be sure that whatever you wear, it is clean, free of stains and fits well. Women, watch that too tight fit, distractions are distractions and generally reduce the influence power.

Thanks to: Harlan Goerger of H. Goerger & Assoc dba AskHG.

10. Red is Timeless

The color red is timeless and continues to attract positive attention. A red jacket, red blouse or even a red scarf may just provide the professional edge for women in today's business world. For men, it may be a red tie or a red handkerchief in the breast pocket. The one rule to remember is to match the red outfit with one's age or meeting environment. Failure to do so may make a negative impact instead of a positive one.

Thanks to: Leanne Hoagland-Smith of ADVANCED SYSTEMS.

11. Meeting Shoes!

On those cold winter days when you have to wear boots (that's for about four months around here), bring your shoes to the meeting. Find a washroom where you can change them or even in the lobby or waiting room of their office. And don't be shy to bring along a bag in case you need to carry your mucky boots with you.

Thanks to: David Leonhardt of THGM ghostwriting.

12. Stand Out to be Remembered

Can you incorporate your corporate identity into your professional appearance? Look around most networking events and you will be greeted by an array of grey suits; wear something more colorful and you stand out. I'm known as the lady in teal because I usually wear a jacket or dress in the color of my logo. It makes me stand out and helps me to be remembered. People comment if I ever wear a different color! Professional dress doesn't have to be boring.

Thanks to: Glenda Shawley of The Training Pack.

13. Bling isn't the Thing

Women shouldn't wear too many bracelets during meetings. They tend to jingle, knock against desks and women often play with them, which is distracting and can be perceived as unprofessional.

Thanks to: David Brimm of BrimmComm, Inc.

14. Make Every Day Halloween!

Simply put, I really do wear a costume! It is part of my branding and it certainly stands out in the Sea of Sameness. Who could forget "The Colonel" arriving in pink fatigues and combat boots to talk office etiquette? No one. It makes people smile, too, which is always the way to go in the business world. Not only do people have a strong, positive emotional reaction to my outfit, but it opens them up to really hearing my message about practicing courtesy in the workplace.

Thanks to: Anthonette Klinkerman of Courtesy Bootcamp™.

15. Professional Doesn't Mean Dull

You can still dress appropriately & be fun! Professional looking does not mean boring! Spruce up your clothes with interesting accessories. I wear a tie that has painted pistachio shells. It is a guaranteed conversation starter! Being in healthcare, I have a tie with anatomical sketches – I have people waiting in line to view the tie! The anatomical tie also has a version for women (scarves with anatomical sketches). Look for unique ties/scarves, buttons, etc. Don’t blend in - stand out!

Thanks to: Edward Leigh of Center for Healthcare Communication.

16. Be Yourself!

I think that you need to brand yourself; what you wear goes along with that... just like Carol Roth wears a tie. I would not. You have to be yourself!
With my casual clients, I may wear jeans and tennis shoes; for my business suit clients, I may wear a nice pants suit. I personally don't do the skirt and high heel thing. It's not me.

Thanks to: Gwen Hawver of Vision Interface.

17. Dress to Impress Yourself

Dressing in a suit is great, but everyone wears one. Going Zuck and wearing a hoodie is fine too, but it's the anti-suit that everyone is wearing. You have to make it your own. Add jewelry, shoes, a crazy shirt, a crazy belt, or a QR code! Do something that helps you stand out from the crowd. Your outfit is your visual resume. I generally wear bright red lipstick and often, red shoes. Simple, but people remark on it and remember it. It is simple, yet bold. What makes you memorable?

Thanks to: Lauren MacEwen of SM Cubed Consulting.

18. Cut the Mohawk

To avoid an unfortunate bias, job searchers must spend time focusing on their outward appearance. While a mohawk, tattoos and many piercings may speak for individuality, if you’re applying to work in a traditional work environment, it may be more of a hindrance. Hiring managers may find it easier to like those that are similar to them. Do your research - find out what the existing employees wear to work and the image that is projected as their brand.

Thanks to: Peter Polachi of Polachi Access Executive Search.

19. Always Wear a Smile

My business has several clothing articles with our logo. We strongly suggest using them in most cases and therefore, as owner, I wear the branded items as well. It gives our staff and myself a sense of unity and aids customers in identifying us and our brand. During all other public events, my personal rule is to look classic and professional. Although a personal style is a good thing, it shouldn't overshadow your personality and why people connect with you. Always finish off with a SMILE.

Thanks to: Teri Blaschke of Hidden Valley RV Park.

20. Stepping Out!

Don't underestimate the importance of how you dress in the workplace. Try these expert tips:
1. Check the rear view mirror! Are the back of your shoes polished? Does the seat of your pants fit? Is your shirt tucked in? Did your belt go through each loop?
2. Pressing matters - Wrinkled or soiled clothing looks like you don't care. Make sure that your clothes are in good repair every day.
3. Outfit yourself! Wear a jacket or accessory to pull it together. Show that you pay attention to details.

Thanks to: Denise Levine of Outside In Organizer and Makeovers.

21. Dressing for Time Zones

Fashion is a wild and wonderful thing in the world of business as my wife always reminds me. Business casual means a completely different thing on the West Coast than it does in Dallas or New York. You need to understand who you are visiting and where to answer the question "what do I wear?"

My best suggestion is to call the executive assistant of the person you are meeting with prior to the meeting and ask if you have questions. They will appreciate it and you will be better prepared.

Thanks to: Ben Baker of CMYK Solutions Inc.

22. Bee the Look

Just like a bee, your look has to have a real sting. Now, only 30% of your look is the exterior clothes. The real 70% of the sting is to have an absolute internal congruence to rock not only the look, but the role. If your confidence does not shine through, then it is going to be tough to promote yourself. Build both the interior and exterior look so that you can maximize your effectiveness.

Thanks to: Todd Stofka of Philly Hypnosis Performance.

23. Dress to Impress

Looks Matter. Don't Fight It. Embrace It. It's simply part of the package and if you are in business for yourself- the truth is that you are never off duty. If you are out of your home, you have to dress the part. It's different for every business- just be sure to impress.

Thanks to: Haleh Rabizadeh Resnick of Little Patient Big Doctor.

24. Make it Stick in 7 Seconds

7 seconds is all you get to make a first impression. So, aim for a positive one that sticks. Think about the way you want to be perceived.

When speaking, networking or meeting a new audience for the first time, do your homework. Is it business or sports? That influences my choice of dress and style. Use style to reflect your personality, build rapport and give the impression of expert status. So, build your wardrobe accordingly. You want the right style for the right occasion.

Thanks to: Loren Fogelman of Expert Sports Performance.com.

25. Rockin' the Assets God Gave Me

First and foremost, I have to feel confident in what I'm wearing if I want to impress others. I have learned that having confidence in myself has a far greater impact than any other accessory I include. To achieve total confidence, I choose pieces that flatter my figure, are comfortable to wear, and are appropriate for the audience or group I'm speaking with. I don't go for anything too trendy and I make sure to don a sassy pair of shoes that generate conversation and an instant connection.

Thanks to: Karrie Landsverk of AmericanWay University.

26. Wear Something Memorable

When you're in a business situation, dress well, but dress to be remembered. One of my colleagues wears a flower in her hair to match the color of her outfit. I wear hats and that's how I've been "branded" in my community.

Thanks to: Jane Blume of Desert Sky Communications.

27. Match the Client or Event

Besides the obvious of being clean and pressed, you need to dress appropriately for the client. Some are casual, some very formal. You don't want to be over or under dressed in these circumstances. When in doubt, err on the side of being over dressed and go with "business" attire. Jewelry should not be distracting. Long, dangling earrings, flashy rings, etc. should be avoided.

Thanks to: Heidi McCarthy of Customers First!.

28. I Wear a Hand Tied Bow Tie

I've been hand tying my own bow ties since I was about 15. My grandfather taught me how to do it. He said there is no excuse to go out looking like a slob. I think he was right. I was asked on more than one occasion while working in eBiz for a large company not to wear them to work! I looked better than the executives! No joke!
It's important to make a statement, but no loud colors please.

Thanks to: Warren Bobrow of Cocktail Whisperer.

29. Be Yourself...

The most important thing that I learned about what to wear professionally came from watching a man who was incredibly comfortable in his own skin and quite successful. He showed up for events in shorts and running shoes and everyone secretly wished that they could do the same.

My advice is to dress comfortably (because people can tell when you're not) and be yourself.

Personally, I am most comfy in a flowing dress and no shoes, so when you see the barefoot gal in the purple dress, it may be me!

Thanks to: Elisabeth Donati of Campmillionaire.com.

30. Wear Your Own/ Walk Your Talk

My Company makes Sleepwear and moisture wicking LifeStyle Shirts. I make sure I wear my own top under a suit jacket. This way, I don't have to explain what the fabric feels like or looks like. I proudly wear my product!

Thanks to: Haralee Weintraub of Haralee.Com Sleepwear.

31. Smart or Tart

Always dress as though you are on the cover of Vogue magazine.

Thanks to: Jacob Singer of Jacobashersinger.com.

32. Hide the Sailor's Tattoo!

A consistent image is extremely important. I once had a brand new boss, due to corporate consolidation. In our first meeting, I felt he was overdressed for our corporate climate. The suit was very nice, but the expensive tailored shirt with French cuffs and cufflinks were over-the-top for a manufacturing environment. Then, I noticed the sailor's tattoo peeking out from one cuff. It matched his improper language and lack of knowledge for basic English. Dressing to impress goes beyond clothes.

Thanks to: Steve Watson of SCW Company.

33. When in Toronto, Dress Like...

Our company StorageMart has self storage facilities in Toronto, Canada. On occasion, I get up there to visit the locations. While I can wear jeans and boots when visiting sites in the U.S and everyone is comfortable, it does not work so well in Canada. Canadian self storage executives dress up a bit and wear suits or sport coats. So, I pack a few ties and my dress shoes when I head north. I am comfortable either way, but being sensitive to what employees find appropriate is a part of my job.

Thanks to: Tron Jordheim of StorageMart Toronto.

34. Your Wardrobe is a Billboard

I was once invited to Detroit to meet with the top four marketing execs at Chrysler. I showed up in designer jeans and a SAVVY! T-Shirt (The company I was seeking to promote with their money). They were in suits. The lone woman in the group looked me up and down and said, "Boy, you really put on the dog for us."

I noted, "But you are not my audience. I am marketing to Jane Doe who is at home, wearing her jeans and T-shirt. Jane will love me! She agreed. My advice - Dress for your audience.

Thanks to: Denise Martin of Eating My Way to Heaven, Inc.

35. Business Attire & Personality

We all know there are rules to business dressing: classic lines, emphasis on detail, fabric, cut and line, etc. One way to make yourself stand out from the crowd is to add your personality in the form of accessories and color. While there are certain colors that are more appropriate for certain industries, adding your personality in the form of accessories and color will help you to stand out in a good way and be memorable.

Thanks to: Dianne Daniels of The DivaStyle Coach, Inc.

36. Just Don't Wear it!

If your prospective customer, target or niche market won't wear it, don't you wear it in public. "It" can be an article of clothing, jewelry, tattoo or body piercing. Everyone wears a different societal mask depending on the situation. As a business owner, you should do the same thing. Wear the mask that will make the sale, but make your concern and desire to serve genuine. The one "article" of clothing which is applicable to all target markets is a beautiful smile.

Thanks to: Carmin Wharton of e-BlackWomenNetwork.

37. Look Snazzy

Don't worry about impressing. Just look chic, stylish and fashionably in good taste. You'll impress.

Thanks to: Miriam Silverberg.

38. Goodbye Cookie-cutter Clothing

The ONE best piece of business advice for dressing to impress is not to dress like a cookie-cutter corporate type. Choose a color palette and clothing that works for you. Accessorize thoughtfully. If you’re a woman, it’s okay to like leopard print. Buy an exquisite pencil skirt or pair of shoes and build an outfit around it. DO NOT stifle your personality by dressing in clothing that will make you feel dumpy and frumpy versus stylish, sleek, and ready to do business. The same goes for men.

Thanks to: Amandah Blackwell of Savvy-Writer.

39. Dress for Business Success

Oh my, that's a good one. Number one, we should all dress to look professional in business. Men usually do... but women often dress either too casual or too party-ish. Forget the low cut top and short skirts please, and the Mrs. Obama monkey-see-monkey-do arms exposure -- that's for summer vacation on the beach with your family... let's dress for success and equality of power in business.

Thanks to: Diane Hoffmann of Hoffmann-Rondeau Communications.

40. One Step Up

Every company has a fashion culture and it is probably different in each department as well. Find out what it is--don't be afraid to ask--then, dress one step better than the culture of that department. A suit is appropriate for some cultures, but for many high-tech companies, it screams "You don't know our business."

Thanks to: Diana Zimmerman of CMS Communications, Intl.

41. Accessorize on the Rise

Dressing in the workplace can be fun with the right touch of accessories and variations. Be sure to pair those favorite black slim fit tuxedo pants with an electric blazer to off-set the typical "business" wear. Accessorize with simple gold or silver rings on your thumbs or index fingers. This screams business with a tasteful touch of fashion. Fashion in the workplace is all about simple variations. Take time out of your busy days to check out your local boutiques for fun, rare accessories.

Thanks to: Savannah Britt of Girlpez Fashion Magazine.

42. Pass on the Perfume

Don't wear perfume. I worked in an office where another woman wore so much perfume that it gave me a daily headache. Her overwhelming perfume quickly became water cooler conversation. Worse yet, there was a new project where someone with her expertise was needed, but the project leader said he couldn't bear her heavy perfume, so he invited someone else.

Thanks to: Meredith Liepelt of Rich Life Marketing.

43. Power Dressing = Just One

Choose one thing you love, whether it is shoes, accessories, impeccably cut jackets, and do it well and always. For example, if you love jewelry, invest in some great pieces that are unique and make it your statement. Don't overdo it; choose one statement piece per outfit, not three.

When you wear your favorite (whatever), you will feel more powerful and project that in your business. People tend to admire those who can truly be themselves while being professional, so be that person!

Thanks to: Karen Moehr of Ageless Mojo.

44. Ask Murphy Brown

If you work from a home office, get dressed every day. If you work in sweats, create a system for getting into business clothes quickly. I use “Murphy Brown’s” example (from the old TV series with Candice Bergen): black pants, colored top, black blazer, and a great brooch on the lapel or a long scarf. A purse organizer lets me move my stuff to another bag easily. The system works and I no longer decline last-minute lunch dates or meetings.

Thanks to: Flo Selfman of Words à la Mode.

45. Pass or Surpass

If you don't meet initial expectations, potential clients may take a pass without you knowing why. Before your designer label is recognized or your freshly polished nails present your custom business card - your perceived value was assessed. Do you surpass the initial expectation of looking like what is expected as a professional agent, teacher, CEO, etc? You may be the best qualified, but if you don't meet initial expectations, you won't get the chance to prove it! Surpass the expected and succeed.

Thanks to: Lorraine Morgan Scott of Pep Talk Publishing and Seminars.

46. Always be Appropriate

Know your audience! To impress, you must make others feel comfortable with you. Dressing appropriately will help to establish that. Once comfortable with you, you will have their attention & will be in a position to impress them with whatever you are presenting.

Dressing appropriately:

Bankers are conservative.

Construction Contractors are a physical tougher breed than bankers & dress differently.

Big Corp execs are smart, classy dressers.

KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE & BE APPROPRIATE.

Thanks to: Harris Glasser of Serving The People Press.

47. Don't Flaunt it - Hide it!

On a scale of 1 to 10, even if you're a 12, don't flaunt it! You can be cute as a button, but keep your buttons buttoned! Recently, a young woman started work with a client. She showed up "showing" lots and was fired on the spot. It's perfect for a date, not for work. Guys do it too, especially older guys. Keep the shirt buttoned and don't wear heavy gold chains. Dress age and job appropriate. Unless you're on the radio like Carol (and me), don't wear jeans either. Dress professionally, not like a "pro."

Thanks to: Mark Alyn of Mark Alyn Communications, Inc.

48. To Thine Own Self Be True

Combine both the Yin and Yang energies of clothing and colors when deciding what to wear. This means to weave both masculine (yang) and feminine (yin) energies. Masculine = straight lines, Feminine = curved lines, i.e. a black suit with straight lines is masculine in form and feminine in color, and combining it with a stylish scarf or tie (for a man) in a print with curves, such as paisley, using the color of your shirt or blouse will give the message of being both creative & professional.

Thanks to: Diane Donato of Clothes Encounters.

49. Dress to Your Audience

Think about for whom you are dressing? Is it a business meeting with an attorney or accountant? Stick to a suit. Are you meeting with an editor of a style magazine? Dress hip and stylish. Dress to appeal to your audience and think of how they will be dressed based on their profession.

Thanks to: Christina Daves of CastMedic Designs.

50. Be Part of the Team

Something I've tried in the past is to research the company I'm meeting and see if they have their own dress code and then, dress similarly. If they don't, then you could also try wearing colors that match their branding. If I were going to meet Coca Cola, I would wear a red tie as subliminally, the interview connects with the color and it creates a bond between the two of you.

Thanks to: Dale Williams of Yolk Recruitment.

51. Sweat the Small Stuff

Dressing to impress is in the details. "Business" is the first word in business casual. Dress as if you're going to work, not a concert, club or sporting event.

Keep your clothes are clean and in good repair - no stains and missing buttons.

The same goes for your shoes. Keep them shined.

Wear understated jewelry and accessories.

As you leave your home, look in the mirror and ask yourself this question: "Does my appearance show that I respect myself and the people I'll meet today?"

Thanks to: Bud Bilanich of The Common Sense Guy.

52. Feel Good Attitude

When dressing for business, you must do so in what makes you feel strong, empowered and ready to take on the world. If you do not feel good in your attire, those you present yourself to will feel it. You will not bring your 'A' game and your self-confidence will definitely not be there. You will know it when you put on the right outfit and step out there. If it does not make you feel good, PLEASE, don’t wear it.

Thanks to: Karlene Sinclair-Robinson of KSR Solutions, LL.

53. Playing Peek-A-Boo

Dress appropriately, making sure you that can't see your animal print under garments.

Thanks to: Sharron Dark of Serving Your Unmet Needs.

54. Confidence is Attractive!

It's certainly important to dress professionally and appropriately for business functions. Yet, the most important "attire" comes from within! The most expensively tailored designer suit won't make a difference if you're feeling uncomfortable, self conscious, or lacking confidence and positive energy. Do whatever you need to do to "get your head in the game" first. If that's hard for you to do, know a coach can help!

Thanks to: Elene Cafasso of Enerpace Executive Coaching.

55. Do Your Research

I close about 20% more deals if I am dressed one step above my client. For example, if I think that they will be in slacks and a button down, I will wear a suit with no tie.

Thanks to: Alex Membrillo of Cardinal Web Solutions.

56. Mr. PR on Business of Fashion

My main piece of advice for anyone getting dressed is to know your body! I'm definitely a believer that if they make it in your size, then it IS for you to wear. You just have to know how to wear it. People with curves should apply my 1+1 rule, which means that one piece is more fitted while the other is looser. Being in style is easier than one would think. One huge trend that we see for spring/summer is pieces printed in pale colors. You can find this on men's collards shirts & skirts for ladies!

Thanks to: Pierre Reddick of Styled by Mr. P.R.

57. Context is (Nearly) Everything

You must consider the location and the industry. You would not wear the same clothing in Saudi Arabia as in Hawaii, but did you know that there are differences in business attire between The Netherlands and France? (I was in both places last year and verified that.) There are also differences among industries. Advance knowledge and planning are key.

Thanks to: Barbara DesChamps of Chateau Publishing.

58. Style that Sticks!

Dressing to impress comes from a sticky note and 3 little words. Write on a sticky note 3 words that describe how you want to be perceived by a potential customer or boss. Post it in your closet and every time you dress, ask yourself if your outfit matches the way that you want to be perceived. If your business is cutting edge and detail oriented, then scuffed shoes, unkempt nails, and outdated clothing negate your goal before you even open your mouth. Strategic clothing yields amazing results.

Thanks to: Lee Heyward of Style with Lee.

59. Be Wary of the Message

Appearance is your most powerful non-verbal communication in business. It makes strong statement about you. This is not about an expensive outfit, but a well tailored or altered one. A garment should flatter your skin-tone and be appropriate for body shape and size. Avoid overwhelming colors and patterns in your garment. Jewelry? It's best to wear no more than a watch and a ring. Women should avoid any outfit that draws the eye down. A well-groomed appearance that draws the eye upwards elicits discipline and confidence.

Thanks to: Kenny Frimpong of Eredi Pisano USA.

60. Classic Business Style

I am always drawn to classic women's wear. I love dresses with elegant accessories i.e. the pearls, pearl earrings and sometimes, that great bracelet to match. I like the classic business dress with the matching jacket, and with the right shoes, you are powerful, ready to network or negotiate a business deal. You can’t go wrong for women with that classic dress suit.

Thanks to: Eula M. Young of Griot's Roll Film Production.

61. Dress Appropriately

Dress appropriately for your profession; that which looks good in the Board Room looks overdressed and uptight in casual offices and certain industries. Casual Friday means comfortable, not "sloppy". Never wear the most extreme of anything: the tightest skirt, the lowest neckline, the fluffiest hairstyle, or the highest heels that are so uncomfortable they make you stagger! Unless you are in the fashion industry, you want to reflect competence and dependability, not the latest most shocking style.

Thanks to: Betty Kreisel Shubert of www.outofstylethebook.com.

62. The Perfect Work Accessories

1. Jewelry: Avoid Chunky jewelry. Pick simple jewelry that complements your outfit in a subtle manner. Gold or silver metals with clear stones work great.
2. Handbags: Look for structured shapes in classic colors, including black, brown, grey or accent with a pop of color like red! Remember, buy bags that keep you organized and prepared!
3. Have your staples covered: Every woman needs simple CZ hoops, studs, pendant necklace, patent clutch, an organized tote and a beautiful, basic black or brown watch.

Thanks to: Bobby Schandra of Bobby Schandra.

63. Ready, Set...Go!!!

Ladies, always keep a pair of dark trousers or a skirt available and ready to go at any time. A solid color blazer can be a nice touch and allows your look to go from casual to business in an instant. Don't forget your stockings or trouser socks! Guys seem to use similar, gender appropriate guidelines when they need to transform from casual to business as well. Stay ready so that you don't have to get ready...

Thanks to: S. Capri Edwards of AGC Transport & Serv LLC.

64. Costume Yourself for Success!

Women of the world, how you dress (your costume) tells the world who you are – in about 3 seconds. When dressing for business, think of yourself as a "costumer" for a movie. How would you dress this person to be believable to the audience? How would your hair and make-up look? Does your look ‘mirror’ the men's suits? TV shows “The Good Wife” and “Scandal” offer good examples of respectable dress. If you want to “Lean In”, you must “button up.” This is your armor!

Thanks to: Marilynn Barber of Fit or Faux.

65. Less is Not Best!

Less is not best when you are trying to make a first impression (unless of course you are a rock star or a stripper).

Dressing to impress in business can still attract attention if it is done in a chic, understated, yet sophisticated way. That little black suit can still get you the once over when dressed up with colorful details like a stunning scarf, knockout shoes and a handbag. Jewelry is always acceptable as long as it is not gaudy.

Let them want to hire you, not your outfit.

Thanks to: Lauri Chertok of Measuring Up.

66. Color Yourself Beautiful

WEAR YOUR COLORS PROUDLY! In the 70s and 80s, the IN thing was to have a “color analysis” done to determine which colors made you look glowing and radiant all day and night. It worked then. It still works! The premise is: each of us has a complexion that comes alive when we wear colors based upon one of the 4 seasons of the year. The book Color Me Beautiful by Carole Jackson was and is my fashion bible. Now that I’m into my lovely grey-haired years, I'm still sparkling!

Thanks to: Kathleen Anderson of Overnormal Creative Ideas.

67. Small Touches Go a Long Way

If you find that you are in a very formal business environment (dark suits) but want to express yourself with your image, it's best to do so in small doses. How can you add something of flair or personality to your outfit? That would be a conversation starter? Search for a unique scarf, antique pin, unique stud earrings, or a fun colored shoe like red.
Look for an item which feels authentic to you, but also would add some personality to your outfit.

Thanks to: Alexandra Greenawalt of Alexandra Stylist.

68. When in Rome

Let's say that you're meeting with a group of Investment Bankers. Logic tells us that we should strive to blend in rather than stand out with our appearance. WOW them with your presentation and ideas not with your wardrobe. If you're meeting with techies, then take your tailored suit off...that might frighten them away! Walk their walk and talk their talk.

Thanks to: Jerry Pollio of Franchise Futures.

69. Professional Dress at its Best

Your clothing should never enter the room before you. Get noticed for the right reasons. Clothing should be current and classic; nothing flamboyant. If you want to be noticed for the right reasons and as a professional, your clothing should make a compelling professional statement about you. If you have the abilities, job skills, track record, etc., never put yourself in a time capsule because your clothing is dated.

Thanks to: Dick Lerner of Bel Air Fashions.

70. Wear What Flatters You!

Being "IN" fashion may mean being totally "Out" of touch with what flatters you™!! When you are dressing for your professional life, first understand the underlying "fashion rules" of the company. Once you recognize the accepted fashion looks, then dress with styles that work for your body-type. Awareness of your environment as well as self-knowledge is a winning combination.

Thanks to: Andrea Rose of ARStyle Institute.

71. Dress for Your Office

Know what is and isn’t appropriate for the particular office. Impress the company by incorporating your personal style into your business attire. Dress up a typical day-at-the-office outfit by giving your co-workers a little peek at your personal style. The best way to impress through your outfit is to wear your clothing and makeup with confidence. Nothing commands attention better than an employee who has a sense of confidence in both their work and the way they look.

Thanks to: Nicolle Keogh of JustLuxe.

72. Let Your Inner Geek Show

I think it's really important to let your personality shine through the outfit you're wearing. For example, I am a huge nerd, but I also love fashion. So, I like to mix things up with a nice pair of pants or a skirt, a blazer and a graphic tee. That way, I'm dressed nicely, but I'm also letting my geekiness show. Fashion speaks to people. So, before you put on an outfit, ask yourself, "Is this really me?"

Thanks to: Michelle Downs of 12 Stars Media.

73. Blaze it Up

It can take any outfit from drab to fab with little to no effort at all. Style and personality is not a factor with - the simple black blazer. "Wake up" any outfit and make it work! From jeans, slacks, dresses, to skirts, a solid dark blazer means business. It's cost effective, convenient, and adaptable. Go from ordinary to Chief Exec in an instant.

Thanks to: Carolyn Hall of CL3 Agency.

74. Ten Power Fashion Staples

Invest in power staples that fit 3 criteria:
- Classic style
- Beautifully made
- Neutral color

This ensures that you keep the item for years and a neutral palette allows you to mix and match. A power base is a surefire way to always look polished and professional.

10 Power Staples:

1. Black or grey suit
2. Black pants
3. White blouse
4. Silk blouse (neutral color)
5. Black blazer
6. Black dress
7. Knee-length black skirt
8. Cashmere cardigan
9. Beige trench coat
10. Black pumps

Thanks to: Sabrina Zollo of Sabrina Zollo Books.

Do you have a business fashion tip that wasn’t included? If you do, please share it below. And as always, many thanks to everyone that contributed to this article!

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