Part of being a well-dressed man is the ability to take care of every detail meticulously, no matter how trivial it might seem. Whether it's buttoning up your suit jacket properly, making sure your shirt is wrinkle free, or sprucing up your look with the latest tie, there is a list of small (yet important) things to know, to make the most of your business attire. So read up, learn these tips, and make sure to look your best.
1- Limit your dry cleaning
It's not a myth; dry-cleaning your clothes too often isn't a good idea. Blame it on the chemicals used in the process, which can cause the fabric to deteriorate and lose its shape in the long run. Instead, spot clean your suits by hand -- using water and mild soap -- and have them professionally steamed and pressed when needed.
2- Machine-wash & hand-press your dress shirts
The same rule applies to cotton dress shirts; if you can't afford to buy new shirts every year, then you shouldn't have them dry-cleaned too often because they'll deteriorate and lose their luster real quick. Machine-wash and hang them to dry instead. Furthermore, when you do take your shirts to the dry cleaner, make sure they're hand-pressed rather than machine-pressed. It will help keep the seams, collars and cuffs looking great, longer.
Note: There is an exception when it comes to machine-washing shirts; dark colored dress shirts should be dry-cleaned in order to prevent fading and discoloring.
3- Leave your bottom button undone
Ever wonder which buttons on your three-button suit should be fastened and which ones shouldn't? If so, you're not alone -- I get that question all the time. When wearing a three-button suit, never fasten your bottom button, no matter what type of suit it is. As a general rule, you should always fasten your top button, except if your suit features soft, rollover lapels. In that case, it's okay to keep the top and bottom button unfastened for a more relaxed look.
4- Wear a cool tie
Aren't you bored of wearing the same conservative tie, every day? Well, I don't blame you. To add a little dose of excitement to your business wardrobe this season, get yourself a hip and trendy slim tie -- striped or with pin dots.
5- Iron your cotton dress shirt
The key to properly pressing your cotton dress shirts is to crank up your iron's heat to its maximum level. And in order to avoid burning your shirt, fill up the iron with water (for steam) and use a spray bottle to moisten the shirt prior to ironing.
6- Get rid of wrinkles quickly
If you're running late for work in the morning and don't have time to iron your shirt meticulously, then simply iron the cuffs, collar and front part of your shirt. The rest of your shirt will be covered once you slip on your jacket. But this is a last resort; if you have a bunch of other shirts to wear with your suit, then wear one of those instead, until you have time to do a real ironing job.
7- Wear heavyweight suits during fall and winter
Heavyweight suits should be restricted to winter and fall -- avoid wearing them during spring and summer. So go crazy this fall because flannels, corduroys and tweeds have made a huge comeback.
8- Not all dress shoes require laces
I'll set this straight once and for all: dress shoes don't necessarily require laces. A fine pair of designer loafers will complement most suits perfectly.
Hopefully these small tips will help tidy up your appearance every time you get ready for a day at the office.
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