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Several of our early columns addressed the issue of getting started in
building a business wardrobe
(click
here to read these articles). We strongly recommended sticking
with basic colors and styles to allow for the greatest amount of
flexibility in matching wardrobe pieces. This week we will focus
on expanding your business wardrobe beyond those basic items.
Let's start with dress shirts. Once you have acquired the requisite
6-8 basic dress shirts (white, blue, ecru or blue stripe), you can
start to add to your collection by branching out into various patterns.
Pinstripe, bengal stripe, end-on-end and minicheck are timeless
and will out last seasonal, more fashion forward pattern selections.
Choose traditional blue or burgundy for a classic look; tone of
black, brown, purple or gold for a more updated feel. The more adventurous
can opt for more fashion forward patterns including subtle tonal
checks or multi-colored non-repeating stripes in a wide spectrum
of colors.
When you venture beyond basic dress shirts, it is wise to purchase
shirts and neckties at the same time, to assure that these critical
wardrobe items match. The key to matching a tie to a patterned dress
shirt is to mix small patterns with larger patterns. For example,
combine a minicheck dress shirt with a paisley or bold stripe necktie.
Or, match a bengal stripe shirt with a mini-dot tie. To assure a
strong color effect, select neckwear that features a tone that matches
the secondary tone of the dress shirt.
As with dress shirts, we recommend that you first build an assortment
of basic woolen trousers in neutral tones (grey, charcoal, black,
olive, tan, navy and brown) to provide the greatest amount of wardrobe
versatility. Once you have accomplished this, branch out into some
patterned trousers. Houndstooth and glen plaid are excellent choices,
and they mix especially well with solid color blazers and fine gauge
knits. A solid blazer and/or classic sportcoat are essential wardrobe
items. Add additional sportcoats in versatile colors and patterns
such as plaid, herringbone or houndstooth to supplement your wardrobe.
Expanding your accessories collection can also add some zest to
your wardrobe. Add some whimsical neckties and cufflinks. Once you
have mastered the basics, have some fun while expanding your wardrobe.
Click
here to view our seasonal collection dress shirts.
If you have any additional questions about seasonal trends please
contact us at
PFadvisor@paulfredrick.com.
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