Office Attire?

Office Attire?

In my role, I am lucky to meet so many people, from so many places.  During these meetings, I often consider the office environment people fit well within, and any peculiarities.

One of the regular observations for me, is the office attire.  For so long, a suit, shirt and tie for men was the option, leaving very little for any creativity.  

Now though, more and more variances creep in, and I have to say, I haven't been able to hit upon a rule of thumb.  It isn't the fact that it is such a grey area, but more how some people seem to have a flair for what looks appropriate and 'smart', and others struggle.

Even more difficult is the fact that an outfit on one individual can look snappy, fashionable and appropriate, yet the same outfit on someone else, can look so wrong.

I have often bought something on the basis of it looking great on a colleague, or someone you see on the street, only to put it on before going out to realise, I'm just not cut out for a particular look.

So what is the answer?  

I am not sure there is one, but my advice would be, go safely, go moderately, and go with something that you feel confident and comfortable in...and when in doubt, I'd rather be in a suit surrounded by jeans, than in jeans surrounded by suits!