Networking is a crucial part of running a start-up business, and whilst technology has made it easier than ever before to interact online, there’s still something to be said for connecting with contacts in person.
For this, there are many networking events out there that will allow you to meet with likeminded entrepreneurs and experienced business owners. You can all share ideas and build lasting relationships that benefit yourselves as professionals and also your respective organizations.
Attending these events is an exciting and enjoyable experience, but you need to make a good first impression, and for this you need to be dressed appropriately.
Most of these events call for smart casual attire, which can be a challenge for some men to achieve. Too formal and you look stuffy and out of touch, too relaxed and you look unprofessional.
If you’re struggling to create an outfit that’s the perfect combination of smart casual to impress at your next business networking event, fear not – we’ve put together a list of outfit ideas that will make you look sharp and stylish.
A Classic Casual Outfit
The ultimate smart casual look is an open collar shirt, paired with a pair of relaxed pants like dark jeans, corduroys or slim fit pants. Plain shoes will blend in with the outfit, and you can offset the look with a suave hairstyle or even some statement jewelery. Use a large luxury watch or a discreet chain to offset your outfit and make yourself look confident and ready to make new contacts.
Trendy Designer Clothes
If you’re planning a networking event where there’s significant competition, then go for trendy men’s designer clothing and accessories. It can help you to look classy and stylized, and at the same time stand out from everyone else. Try mixing casual items like black jeans with a designer shirt or blazer for an individual look that’s practical and stylish. You also need to make sure that your shoes are an absolute must-have for the event and stylish enough to get noticed.
A Sporty Style
If you want to look energized and driven, try going for a sporty look by teaming a polo shirt with plain chinos. Combine these with a pair of fashionable designer trainers and you’re good to go. There’s a lot Yeezy Boost 500 supply to choose from. Also check out the selection of fashionable Fendi sneakers on SSENSE to find a pair of shoes that will set off your look.
A Warm Jumper
If you’re coming to your networking event straight from an important meeting, relax your suit by removing your tie and adding a warm jumper over your shirt. This will make you look approachable and more relaxed than you’d look in your suit. Even without the tie, suits are easily recognizable, so use a jumper to relax your style and make yourself appear more casual.
An Edgy Ensemble
For a statement look, wear a leather jacket to your next networking event. Keep the rest of your look simple, with a plain pair of pants and a white shirt under the jacket, so that you don’t go too far and appear unkempt. Choose a classic style jacket in traditional black, or even the slightly unorthodox brown, to give yourself an edge and set yourself apart from the crowd.
A Quirky Bow Tie
Bow ties might seem like a bygone hipster look, but they can be used to make yourself look creative and inventive. Select a plain bow tie and team it with a patterned or brightly colored shirt. Make sure that the colors don’t clash, but also that they don’t blend together so closely that the tie’s effect is muted. Try a traditional color combination, like red and black, green and purple or brown and blue. Casual jeans and trainers or boots will complete the look and make you look innovative but not too strange.
A Waistcoat
Use a waistcoat to look smart and fashionable. It’s important that you wear a tie with a waistcoat, so make the look casual by removing your jacket and wearing casual pants and shoes. Make sure that the waistcoat is fitted to give you a polished, sleek appearance that will resonate and make everyone remember your outfit long after the event is over.
A Relaxed Everyday Style
Look polished and still relaxed by styling up your everyday clothes. Take a simple long-sleeved shirt and layer it with a fitted cardigan to look smart yet at the same time casual. You can pair this with simple cotton pants or even jeans to make yourself look even more laid back. Boots will give a rugged finish to your outfit.
A Blazer Over A T-Shirt Look
A casual way to style a blazer at a networking event is to pair it with a t-shirt. Each item is at the opposite end of the smart/ casual spectrum, so they’ll balance each other out. Layer your t-shirt with your blazer tactfully to ensure that the combination works and the colors don’t clash. For pants, you should either go for ones that match the blazer, or a plain set of cotton pants in a loose fit. To complete your look, wear a pair of plain brogues or oxfords, which will look practical and smart.
These outfits are just ideas – try mixing things up and making your look truly your own to ensure that you feel comfortable while you’re building your network.
