When Don Draper, the star of AMC’s hit series Mad Men, walks into a room, he commands respect without saying a word. If you want to be taken seriously in business, you need to look successful, and Don has mastered the art. Take a page from his style book with these five simple tips:
1. Keep It Classic
Keep your style clean, classic, and streamlined by focusing on well-made, timeless items in colors like navy, black, and cream. Avoid loud ties, quirky colors, or unusual patterns, and draw inspiration from classic brands like Polo Ralph Lauren. You want people to focus on you and what you’re saying, not on the weird purple flowers on your tie.
2. Know Your Measurements for a Perfect Fit
Part of what makes Don Draper’s style work is that everything he wears fits him flawlessly. Wealthy men often have their clothes custom-tailored for fit, but you can achieve the same effect for less by having a friend help you measure your arm length, neck circumference, and inseam. When you shop, compare your measurements with those on the store’s size chart, and you can be sure you’ll get a great fit.
3. Choose High-Quality Materials
Always check the materials list on items you’re considering. Choose natural, top-quality materials like cotton, linen, or wool whenever possible. These choices might cost more upfront, but they’ll last longer, wear better, and look nicer than cheaper options. If your budget is tight, cut back on the number of items you buy, not the quality. Two well-made shirts are far better than ten poorly-made ones.
4. Pay Attention to Accessories
If you want to look successful, don’t just focus on a suit. Invest in a well-made, comfortable pair of dress shoes, a coordinating belt, and a handsome watch, and make sure you’re tucking your cash into a well-made leather wallet or an attractive money clip. These are the details that set a truly powerful man like Draper aside from the competition, and getting them right is essential to projecting the right image.
5. Keep Your Casual Wear Stylish, Too
Being powerful doesn’t mean living your whole life in a tie. Keep your look polished even when you’re in jeans by sticking to timeless styles, classic colors, and high-quality materials. The polos at www.reemclothing.com, for example, would look right at home in Don Draper’s country club. By paying attention to details like fit and materials, you can feel confident anywhere you go.