Dress for Success

Journal #3 (Write on a separate sheet of paper to turn in.) In past English classes, what have you found to be the most helpful? (If a specific lesson or experience stands out, please share.) What do you hope to learn or improve on this year in English class? Explain.

What does it mean when you say “to dress for success”?

Two Types of Dress Business Casual Used for less formal events Field Trips Guest Speakers Etc Business Professional Used for formal events All presentations (unless noted by teacher) STEM Events Community Reveal Showcase TechnoExpo Other events as announced

Business Professional Men Dark business suit Conservative, long- sleeved dress shirt Basic tie (muted pattern) Shined dress shoes. Belt Classic (not trendy) Women Dark pants suit Dark slacks Dark skirt (knee-length) Conservative shirt Closed toed heels or flats (not platforms or trendy shoes) Classic (not trendy)

Business Casual Men Slacks & Button up shirt Khakis & Collared/Polo shirt Traditional shoes (no athletic shoes ever…) Belt Women Slacks/skirt & blouse Dress (dark color or muted pattern) Flats or heels (no sandals)

Items to Avoid ~ Men Untucked shirts T-shirts with logos/brands Un-pressed shirts Jeans Workout clothes Shorts Sloppy/oversize pants Ties with characters or other logos Bright colors Loud prints Sandals Athletic shoes Work boots Cowboy boots (only with bus. Casual) Messy hair Facial piercings

Items to Avoid ~ Women Tank Tops Jeans Bright Colors Loud Prints Shorts Skirts that do not touch your knee Workout clothes Low-cut necklines Leggings Sandals/Flip-flops Sneakers Hiking boots/Uggs Stiletto Heels Bright colored make- up/nail polish Distracting jewelry Facial Piercings Wild hair

Accessories Minimal accessories should be worn All jewelry should match the level of dress Ex: friendship bracelets and bands from Six Flags have to go!

Smart Choices Buy clothing that can be used in multiple settings. Choose neutral and classic items – black slacks/skirt Vary your look by changing the shirt/tie or blouse Avoid trendy items – they are usually not professional. Shop at common retain stores- JC Penney, Kohl’s, Belk Plan ahead – don’t wait until the night before!

Your clothes must always be clean, pressed and in good condition. Proper fit is the key to any look you choose.

You only have one chance to make a first impression… so always dress to impress.

Questions?

Activity

Professional or Casual? Look through the following slides. Decide whether the clothing is business professional or business casual. Are there things the students should change?

Ladies’ Shoes When can I wear these shoes for presentations?

Guys’ Shoes When can I wear these shoes for presentations?

You can NEVER Over-Dress, only Under-Dress. Always dress for success…

Adapted from the “Dress for Success” Guide from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Business. Starring former STEM students.