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By Benn, May 18, 2010 3:00 am

Every business trip poses a series of challenges. This article will focus on one dilemma that is a part of every business trip – packing. In order to determine what to pack, check the weather forecast for your destination and determine what amenities your hotel(s) will provide.

Before you do any actual packing, we strongly suggest a list. Take into consideration the length of your trip, the business attire needed, the amount of free time available for non-business activities and personal preferences for recreational items and sleep wear. Once a list is made, select an area where you can lay out what will be packed, and check them off your list.

Keep in mind the following with regards to the business wear items. Shoes are heavy, so try to minimize the number of shoes you bring. Select suits or trousers that require only one shoe color. Additionally, comfortable shoes that can be dressed up or down, you will further reduce your shoe requirements.

Likewise, clothing that can be worn for both business and casual activities will help keep your packing requirements to a minimum. If your agenda requires business casual clothing, wool trousers and fine gauge knits such as mock turtlenecks and polos are quite versatile. If a shirt and tie is required for your business meetings, select a few buttondown collar woven shirts. These shirts can also be worn as casual items for leisure activities. Non-Iron dress shirts and performance blazers are particularly appropriate for business travel. Bring two neckties for each shirt packed, since ties are lightweight and can vary your look from meeting to meeting.

Make certain, before packing, that all clothing is clean and pressed. Unless you are utilizing a garment bag, we suggest that all items be packed folded and tightly rolled. Alternatively, folded dress shirts may be packed in the packaging used by your laundry service. Fold and roll all your garments before selecting a suitcase. Once you have done so, choose a suitcase that will be tightly packed when you are finished. The less room items have to move around, the less likely they are to wrinkle in transit. Invest in a travel steamer. This inexpensive item can prove to be extremely valuable if the need arises to remove wrinkles. We also strongly recommend that all toiletries be sealed in plastic bags or a waterproof carrying case before they are packed.

Whether or not you check your bags, always pack a carry-on piece with essential items, in case your luggage is temporarily misplaced. At a minimum, include underwear, socks and a clean shirt. Additionally, make certain that you have identification tags on all of your bags, including carry-on pieces. Once you arrive at the hotel, take the time to properly unpack and store all garments in dressers or closets.

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By Benn, February 2, 2010 9:29 am

The rest of your outfit can look like a million bucks, but all can be for naught with a pair of cheap shoes. Good shoes will last for years. And, things like old world craftsmanship and Italian leather make a difference you can not only see, but also feel. Our footwear is designed with three things in mind: comfort, style and value. The finest material and hand-finished detail, ensure the highest level of quality. Quality equals comfort. While we are all for classic, updated detail makes for a more distinctive statement while not compromising timeless appeal. And, finally, offering it to you at a price that is not only affordable but surprisingly affordable. Plus, we’ve got a diverse selection of matching belts so you can finish your look seamlessly.

Dress Shoes

The vast majority of dress or business shoes fall into one of two categories. First, oxfords are any lace-up that does not go above the ankle. Probably the two most common oxfords are cap toe and wing tip, which simply refers to the way the shoe is finished around the toe. Penny, tassel and monk strap is three common styles of the second category which is loafers or slip-ons. While considered somewhat less dressy, both oxfords and loafers are appropriate choices for business wear.

Classic Wear Guide

A couple simple rules of thumb when getting dressed:

• Black and burgundy are good with almost any black, navy or grey suit.
• Brown works well with tans and navy.
• Shine your shoes. A little polish goes a long way.
• Match your socks to your pants unless it is a lighter color. Then it is often better to match you socks to the color of your shoes.
• Your belt color should always match your shoes.
• Better shoes last longer. An investment that pays for itself over time.

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By Allen, November 16, 2009 2:21 pm

1. Invest in quality tailored clothing that will last. Buy conservative suits and basic trousers that won’t be out of style next season, and use fashion dress shirts and ties to personalize your fashion statement.

2. Find a good tailor and treat him/her well. Proper alterations on suits, trousers and sportcoats are important to your appearance.

3. Be a bit more adventurous when matching shirts and ties. A large patterned necktie will work very well with a small patterned dress shirt, and vice versa. For example, pair a bold paisley tie with a micro-check dress shirt.

4. Make certain that your shoes are shined and appropriate for the rest of your outfit. For example, don’t wear penny loafers with a suit, or cap toe dress shoes with chinos.

5. Make sure your accessories work together. Your belt should match your shoes and your socks should coordinate with your trousers.

6. Make yourself “perspiration proof.” Always wear an undershirt under your dress shirt, and carry a handkerchief to wipe perspiration from your hands or brow.

7. Purchase a small, fold-up umbrella and keep it in your briefcase at all times. Nothing takes the smartness out of a man’s appearance like an unexpected rain shower.

8. Unless you are in a profession where artistic flair is expected, always try to err on the side of dressing too conservatively.

9. Emulate (but do not copy) your boss, or other senior executives at your company, when deciding how to dress.

10. Never wear anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or not yourself.

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By Allen, November 11, 2009 10:45 am

Shoe colors for business traditionally range from black to burgundy to shades of brown and beige. It makes sense to stay within these guidelines, unless you are extremely confident that you can “pull off” a different color. Black is the most versatile color, since it complements a nice variety of suit and trouser colors.  Also remember to coordinate your shoe and belt color, as well as your trouser and sock color.