The Power Dressing Ensembles, Part 1-Business Casual Ensemble
Simply put, power dressing commands the respect and admiration of everyone – from louts to presidents. So, what does looking powerful entail? For starters, it requires an immaculate appearance.
This article is part one of a two-part series on the art of power dressing. In part one; we’ll delve into the business casual look while part two would tilt towards a business formal look.
The Business Casual Power Look
Business casual (also known as the semi-formal dressing) requires two foundational pieces: a formal shirt and a pair of mono-coloured jeans, khakis, chinos or corduroy trousers. But to morph these very basic pieces into a power look, the following elements must be considered:
The Footwear
Going back to our 6 part series on shoes; their formality and versatility, the appropriate footwear to be worn with a business casual ensemble are the chukka boots, brogues or (single or double) monk strap shoes. Another choice of footwear would be a pair of loafers. Why choose these? Well, besides the fact that they all look good, they ooze maturity and have heels.
The Jacket
A good outer-wear is a must-have in every man’s wardrobe because it commands respect. You can either go for a blazer or just a regular, plain jacket. A great upside to these jackets is they can be paired with non-matching trousers.
A Necktie
A well-ironed silk necktie could impress anyone if worn right. A befitting necktie type for any business casual ensemble is the regimental tie as depicted here. A regimental tie is marked by the stripes going from top right to the bottom left, which should not be mistaken with the valedictory necktie which top left to bottom right. Although the regimental tie worn in this ensemble combines three colours, it is tolerable because of the general casual look. Also, pay attention to how the magenta streak complements the purple trousers and pocket square.
The Watch
Ideally, a business casual ensemble could be worn with all styles of wristwatches as shown in the infographic below. Here, the gentleman is sporting an automatic skeletal dress watch on a brown leather strap. He scores debonair points for this because only a few men would wear it at such gathering. Looking closely, you would notice that the gold face complements both the gold broach as well as a tie clip. Similarly, the brown coloured strap matches the brogue shoe and brown leather belt (albeit not visible).
The Pocket Square
The presence of a pocket square is a game-changer. The accessory itself speaks volumes and the type of fold chosen should match the type of setting one finds himself. For example, the” winged puff” fold found in this ensemble is simple and stylish – very appropriate for this ensemble.
The golden rule when wearing pocket squares is it must add colour to your ensemble. However, it MUST NOT be a similar colour to the necktie – It may have muted splashes of the colour. If the pocket square is to match anything at all, then it should match the colour of the dress shirt worn.
The Broach, Dress Pen And Tie Clip
The angel broach is worn to simply add gloss; after all, the power look has one aim – to impress. The dress pen, on the other hand, is functional and elegant. Every gentleman needs a pen for obvious reasons. Since it is a part of his everyday life he might as well invest in a classy-looking refill pen. The gentleman has tucked in his jacket’s breast pocket a stainless steel roller-ball pen. Do not forget your tie clip which helps pin your tie down as well as adds a touch of panache. Here it comes in gold which complements the angel broach.
That concludes the first part of the Rare and Debonair Gentleman’s power dressing ensemble from a business casual standpoint. Hope we have been able to give you tips on what to consider when next you wish to dress to impress. Next week Friday I’ll walk you through the alternative business casual ensemble.
Written By: Chukwuemeka Anyiam-Osigwe. Male Fashion Editor, Pride Magazine Nigeria.
Model: Chukwuemeka Anyiam-Osigwe
Photo Credit: Saharat Anuwatmatee & Ken Ming Leong.
Shoot Location: McDonald Rusacks Hotel, St Andrews, Scotland.
