Why image should never be left to chance…and doesn’t have to be

Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society. – Mark Twain

By Kathy Eber, Freelance Writer

The next time you enter a room full of professional men, ask yourself, who stands out, and why? Like it or not, we make snap judgments about people based on appearance. How often do we defer to well-dressed men? Of two equally qualified candidates, doesn’t the one that looks like he belongs in the board room have the edge?

Captains of industry, small business owners and young men jumping up the corporate ladder see the impact of image every day. Between the current job market and the impact of social media, it’s even harder to stand out in a crowd. Does image alone paint an accurate picture of someone’s value? No. But it can sure move you to the front of the line.

“Rather than fight it, use the rules to your advantage,” advises David Rubin, purveyor of fine menswear and owner of Suited To You. As the premiere custom men’s clothier in the northern suburbs since 1995, Rubin’s professional guidance has given him a stellar reputation for helping guys who are going places get there quicker. So what are the rules? What do powerful men know about looking the part? Not surprisingly, they follow the same tried and true guidelines for success they use in business.

1. Partner with someone you trust.

In this increasingly competitive world, can you afford to gamble with your image? Rather than trust it to a sales person who is motivated more by closing the sale, consider the benefits of working with a professional clothier. What does that mean?

At Suited To You, for example, you’ll meet one-on-one with David Rubin. Appointments can always be scheduled to accommodate even the busiest men. The first appointment begins with a full set of measurements and an image consultation. What do you wear to work on a regular basis? How do you spend your weekends? How can we build on the wardrobe you already have?

“Fit is critical,” says Rubin. “Often it’s the difference between ‘wow’ and a raised eyebrow. Style is not about fashion trends. It’s about wearing clothing to your best advantage. Throughout the process each client learns what works for him and what doesn’t. In the end he’ll have a whole new mindset about clothing.”

2. Make quality your mantra.

There’s no shortcut to quality. “Quality plays a major role in how well something fits, how good it feels, and how many years you will enjoy it,” says Rubin. “That goes for casual wear too. The bottom line is, when you wear it, you reflect it. “

Workmanship is never left to chance at Suited To You. From ready-to-wear to custom made, attention to detail is evident every step of the way. For business, Rubin offers a selection of perfect fitting high quality suits, sport coats, shirts, and trousers. And for business casual, clients choose from a selection of khakis and brushed cotton slacks, and knit and linen shirts. Shoes and accessories add the crucial details that distinguish men like Rubin’s clients from both their colleagues and their competition. And history tells us, the man who looks the part, gets the part.

3. Seek expert counsel.

Who do you call when you want honest feedback about what to wear? Can they answer your questions? Do they have your back? Expertise, integrity and impeccable taste are the hallmarks of Suited To You. Rubin’s growing list of loyal clients will attest to that. “By working with me you’ll have a trusted advisor whenever you need one, and the confidence that comes with knowing you look your best,” adds Rubin. “It’s my job to see that my clients project the right image, whether it’s professional or social.”

4. Delegate the details.

Most of us don’t have the bandwidth to keep up with the latest style rules. Just as we have IT consultants for our networks, it makes sense to have a wardrobe expert in our corner. Would you be able to answer these questions? Here’s how our expert, David Rubin did.

Q. How do you wear a power suit so you stand out from all the other power suits?

“It’s all in the details. Even in cases where a navy pinstripe suit and white shirt have become a corporate uniform, there are simple and subtle ways to differentiate you from the crowd. Try choosing a shirt of higher quality fabric with a collar and cuffs that set you apart from ready-to-wear. Tie and accessory choices also provide endless ways to kick it up a notch. ”

Q. What is the most flattering style for your body type?

“We can’t control our height and body type, but we can choose to dress in a way that effectively complements our unique build. Proportion and fit are essential to looking good in your clothes. By knowing what cut, fabric, button configuration and lapel works best for your body type, we can play down the negatives and accentuate the positives. Even tie width and shirt collar can help alter the illusion of height, weight and age.”

Q. What should I wear to a "black tie optional" event?

“I recommend a tuxedo, a solid black suit, or a solid navy suit – in that order. You’re not going to the office. You’re attending an event that gives you a great opportunity to distinguish yourself outside of the workplace. If you’ll be wearing a solid black or navy suit, you can create an amazing look with extraordinary shirts, ties and cufflinks. The audience is different, and your look should be too.”

Q. Is it okay to wear a stripe suit, a stripe shirt and a stripe tie?
“Yes. But here are some guidelines. Don't match striping. If your suit has a broad stripe, wear a shirt with a narrower stripe. By taking the "opposite" approach with your suits and shirts, the stripes won’t compete with each other. Choosing a tie will be easier too.”

5. Lead by example.

Good taste and good fit never go out of style. They reflect well on you, your position and your company. They set higher standards within the organization; standards that are respected by clients and partners, and emulated by those jockeying for a higher post. A strong image is a worthy goal, even if getting there is a challenge. The fact is, there’s help out there. The next time you find yourself comparing your image with that of other professional men, remember it’s not just what suits you, but also who suits you that make the difference.

Suited To You is located in the Hilltop Executive Center at 1590 S. Milwaukee Avenue, Mezzanine Suite 223 in Libertyville. David Rubin accepts appointments Monday through Saturday by calling 847.247.1019 or by emailing him at david.rubin@suited-to-you.com. For more information about Suited to You, visit www.suited-to-you.com.

David Rubin speaks regularly to professional, civic and business organizations on subjects related to your professional image, including “Make Your First Impression a Lasting One”, “Details Make the Difference”, and “Breathe New Life into Your Wardrobe”.