Has anyone ever found the term ‘business casual’ confusing? Contradicting, even? Here’s a basic guideline to dressing for networking events. While it is safe to follow them, keep in mind that they are not the bible nor are they cast in stone.

Long-sleeved collared shirts are conservative, but safe to wear as you could not go wrong with them. Make sure you choose light colors such as beige, blue or even pink; avoid blacks as they spell a gloomy mood. However, that does not give you the license to wear neon, eye-aching colors such as traffic-stopping yellow and shock-green. Go easy on the stripes or patterns; you would not want something that distracts people’s attention from your face. Remember to iron your shirt and tuck them into your pants.

Slacks could be pleated (single or double) or flat fronted. Choose the style which flatters you. Darker colors such as black or gray are recommended. Ensure that the slacks break on top of the shoe sole to render them neither baggy nor too short. Wear calf-length socks that match your slacks. Do not use gym or white socks as they remind people of a certain King of Pop belting out “Black or White” in the 80s. As for shoes, they should match your belt. Shoes ought to be clean, polished and be in good condition, especially the heels. Remove any old price tags on the soles.

Hair should be neatly combed, and facial hair trimmed. Dyed hair is fine, but do ensure that the colors used are not too wild. If you have long nose hairs protruding out, do have them trimmed. Eye brows too, get them professionally shaped. Regarding beards, goatees and sideburns; the general consensus is to be safe than sorry. However, if you do think that there is nothing wrong with them, then wear them but get them trimmed.

Keep the accessories minimal especially for piercing. Men could just stick to cuff links, wristwatch and a wedding ring. Perhaps in today’s society, nose, eye and ear piercing have become more acceptable, but in most cases, they are still considered out of the ordinary. Clean and trim fingernails (don’t leave out the pinkie!), take a shower and brush your teeth, and wear minimal or no fragrance, after-shave or cologne.

And to top it off, wear a tie. Diagonal stripes, modern polka-dots, plaids and subtle patterns are the norm. Just make sure your tie compliments your shirt in color and style. A very safe bet is to get a same color as your shirt, but a different shade. As for knot examples, click here.

Look sharp and dress smart. You will take the distraction away from your appearance and let people concentrate on your personality instead.

Still confused? Take a leaf out of the books of Steven Chia from Channel News Asia, President Obama, or even your insurance agents.

Image: Flickr/Buckman Coats 1 and IMG_6794