If you’ve been exploring the world of entrepreneurship, you’ve probably already found one of the benefits is not following a dress code. But showing up at the office in your pajamas may not be the best idea for your startup.
The style statement of an entrepreneur isn’t glitzy, nor should it be, but it requires adult and professional standards. Simply wearing a suit won’t make a difference though; being well-groomed and wearing the right clothes will. To that end, we’ve compiled a list of wardrobe essentials that’ll help you dish up some power dressing.
1. Loafers & Classic Boots
Shoes are one of the most important aspects of an entrepreneur’s wardrobe. They’re the first thing people notice. Wearing the wrong ones with a great outfit is a total disaster for the look you’re aiming to achieve. Hence, buying the right shoes is utmost essential. Think loafers – they can be paired with chinos, jeans, and even slacks. And if the classic derby or Oxford, opt for classics boots like chukka. Another good option is Chelsea boots. You can wear them with your jeans, and even a suit when an event calls for dressing down a formal look.
2. A Plain Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
A plain tee like the bella canvas 3001c t-shirt is the ideal choice for any male entrepreneur’s wardrobe. It’s a perfect combination of comfort and simplicity and can be styled in a variety of ways. From the classic pairing of blue jeans and a white tee to being layered under bomber jackets and cardigans, a plain t-shirt is undoubtedly the hardest working item in an entrepreneur’s closet. Over the last decade, famous entrepreneurs such as Mark Zuckerberg have turned the fashion industry around with their simple style statements. Zuckerberg has made the plain t-shirt an almost official attire for company owners in the tech world. There’s no shortage of options though; plain tees are available in a variety of colors and are offered in both heather polyester blends and 100% ringspun cotton.
3. Blazer
The blazer is another important piece for an entrepreneur’s wardrobe. Ideally, you want a simple black blazer that you can pair with formal shoes and slacks. Besides, you can dress it down with converse and jeans, depending on who you’re scheduled to meet. If meetings are casual, say, a gathering of tech entrepreneurs from the Silicon Valley, a blazer, plain t-shirt, and jeans work for either female or male. If you reside in a hot region, you can opt for navy sports blazer in a lighter blend of wool.
4. Glasses
If you have weak eyesight, glasses will have an essential place in your wardrobe. An entrepreneur’s glasses can portray their personality, so go with something fun, and stay clear of traditional wireframes. Even the best cut attire will look silly with the wrong choice of eyewear. Keep in mind that you want to feel confident and relaxed in what you’re wearing. A tortoiseshell or black pair should complement any summer clothing.
Of course, none of these wardrobe items is necessary. We can all get along fine in unironed shirts and torn jeans. But when entrepreneurs want to host events, meet investors, or dress for success, it’s good to have basic clothing on hand.