The Zen and the Executive Wardrobe

By Dwaine Stoots

It has long been held that a person's wardrobe can dramatically influence their career. If a person is seen as "plain" or "a verage" the chances for advancement are limited. These people are seen as being "ordinary" having nothing special or wonderful to offer the company.  The same can be held for people who dress ostentatiously or with to much flair. These people are classified as gaudy, goofy, or in some cases just plain "strange."

A simple rule of thumb in finding your way in the wardrobe universe is to have 9 96 12 visible items showing at all times.  If you are below 9 you are considered underdressed (average) if over 12 overdressed (flamboyant).

Each item counts as 1: for example your trousers, belt, shirt, skirt, shoes, watch, and jewelry count as one item each.   

On any given day the average male wears a pair of pants, tie, watch, shoes, shirt, and belt (6 total).  That means you should find 3 other items to find balance in the universe.  Several options include wearing eyeglasses, facial hair, tiepin, or the western style cell phone (hanging on the hip in case of a cell duel). Although, each person must find his or her own way in the wardrobe universe.  I personally have found that wearing a designer pen in your left hand pocket or having your company badge suspended around your neck is two easy ways to offset the remaining 3 items.  
In a perfect world our success and career advancement would be based upon the quality of our work, our determination, and brilliance. Unfortunately we do not live in such a world; and rightly or not, our future lies in the hands of others, whose perception of our skills and abilities defines our career advancement.  I cannot offer any greater advice than play the corporate game-act like they want, dress like they want, and show your individuality on your underwear!

Go forth and conquer in the name of balanced fashion.