Quite agree. The suit has evolved over three hundred years to flatter the male form in the best way possible.Daystar Clarion said:
Okay, having done some work in HR (including interviewing candidates), and knowing quite a bit about menswear more expansive advise regarding how to dress. I'd also add that those hired weren't expected to wear a suit for work, but one was expected to be presentable. Most work was general administration, and most interviewed were going for entry level data input jobs.
I would avoid the current suit fashion if one isn't tall and lanky. Second hand from the early 2000's, where the fashion was for moderate lapels, two buttons, trousers that sit on the waist, and pleated trousers are more likely to flatter most people (I personally prefer 1930's-40's American suits as I find them more flattering on my body type). It is better to get a well fitting cheap second hand suit made of polyester then an expensive designer suit made of vicuna that doesn't fit. Avoid black suits - these are only appropriate for Reservoir Dog's impressions. Blue, dark grey or charcoal. In the UK, a subtle pinstripe is appropriate - however, on account of the prevalence of blue pinstripe, grey may make you stand out more without being seen as flashy or breaking convention (this is basically what you want to achieve with your dress. Stand out, in subtle ways, without making it obvious you are standing out. You want them to remember you when they discuss the candidates in a good way, not as the cretin who thought turning up in a morning coat, string vest, loin cloth, cloth cap and army boots was a good idea). Ensure the trouser creases are sharp, and that you don't carry too much in your pockets. If three button only do up the centre button. If two button, top button only. Avoid three-piece suits - yes, they are sharper, but can be seen as flashy or overdressed. Single breasted is preferred to double breasted for similar reasons. Unbutton jackets as you sit down.
White shirt, with French cuffs. Plain cufflinks, preferably of the chain or bar link type rather then torpedo links. Patterned, yet sobre, tie. Small diamonds, etc., are fine. Colour should be sobre. Avoid black ties, and solid colour ties. Avoid striped ties unless you went to a public school or are a former serviceman (this is really more of a UK only rule - stripes should be fine in the US). Tie in a half windsor or four-in-hand (I prefer the asymmetry of the latter), and make sure the knot is reasonably tight. Looking like a schoolboy or a premiership footballer isn't good. Avoid clip-ons, or I would have taken you around the back and shot you. And buried your body under a patio.
A pocket handkerchief in a solid, neutral colour is quite a good accessory, as it's a feature that people won't consciously notice. Slight puff fold if colour silk, TV fold if white linen or cotton.
Shoes. Black leather oxfords or brogues, well polished but not bulled. Avoid Cornish pasty shoes, correspondents, winkle pickers or anything too fashionable.
Naturally, this is all best case scenario. If someone walked in wearing a blazer, chinos, shirt and tie because they probably didn't own a suit I wouldn't have not given them the job, and we were rather understanding that many people nowadays going for entry level positions may not own a suit. But not wearing a tie wasn't looked upon well - if you own one, wear it; if you don't, they're not expensive.