Classic shirt, not fashionable shirt

Classic shirts should be, well classic. What does this mean? Well they shouldn’t be fashionable (unless of course classic is a trend for the season!). They shouldn’t be suitable for every occasion, although they should always look presentable. They will always look out of place unless they are ironed and crisp.

The shirt is likely to be predominantly white, perhaps with a tinge of pale blue or beige although a purest may dispute that. They must have a collar, otherwise they would be a top not a shirt. And sleeves are a must – where the sleeves end is another matter but sleeveless could never be considered a classic shirt. They must always, always, always cover a paunch and be versatile enough to tuck in or wear over the waistband.

Another characteristic would have to be the availability of said classic shirts. They should be available every season, every year with little or no updates made to the design. Because they are classic. And that’s why we love them.

Exercise in winter to keep warm

Alas, the winter will soon be upon us, and our thoughts will turn to keeping warm. Of course, it’s important to wear the right clothing for the season, and this is especially important when you brave the outside. Don’t forget your thermal Damart socks and gloves! But there is one excellent way to keep warm (no, NOT what you’re thinking), and that is to take plenty of exercise.

When the weather is cold, it is tempting to stay indoors and huddle by the radiator for the next six months, while dreaming of escape to foreign shores. This won’t do your health any good, though. Even in the UK, there are some crisp, sunny winter days, and you should take advantage of them. Slip on those fur-lined boots, pull on a warm Damart hat, and get out in the fresh air!

One of the best forms of exercise is cycling (not much fun on rainy days, admittedly, and possibly a bit dangerous in the snow), but since it doesn’t rain quite as much in the UK as other nations seem to think, that bike can still get a lot of use. When the weather forecast permits, why not cycle to work? (Admittedly, not to be recommended if your journey to work involves a one hour drive on the motorway …) You will arrive at work (or home) having generated enough heat to store for later, like a solar panel.

Walking is another good, healthy method of exercise, and is absolutely free. Make sure your footwear has sturdy, non-slippery soles, as it will certainly be warm in A & E if you fall over, but I can say from personal experience that this is not to be recommended (ouch), and is probable only for those truly desperate to stay warm. Resist the temptation to get the car out for short journeys (which is wasteful of fuel), and walk to the shops or to pick the kids up from school.

Should there be a decent amount of snow, get out in the garden or off to the park, and play with the kids. A good snowball fight will warm everyone up and the youngsters will love running around in the snow. Walking the dog, if you have one (if not, why not volunteer at your local shelter as a dog-walker) is a twice-daily necessity that the dog will love, and will be great exercise for you as well.

Tied to tradition?

In today’s increasingly flexible society, this question evokes a debate not simply about attire, but arguably about the importance of presentation in the workplace.  As far back as the 13th century, the cufflink has been used both for decoration and practicality, although recently there is a trend towards using buttons as an alternative for fastening cuffs.  Equally, formal shirts date back centuries, and are now seen as synonymous with success and affluence.
However, many would argue that in today’s world, such official apparel is not as needed as it was in days gone by. This is mainly due to the huge growth in communications over the past century.  In 1900, practically every meeting was conducted face to face, and so first impressions were vital.  Nowadays however, video conferencing, or telephone calls are very much the status quo.  Therefore, as a result of reduced personal contact, the opinions formed when first communicating are very much based on eloquence and professionalism, rather than presentation.
Equally, there are those who would argue a smart dress code helps to promote an organised and professionally conducted workplace. Equally, it may help to reduce potential distractions whilst working. Indeed, every City firm in London insists on a suit, cufflinks and tie combination; not solely through tradition, but also as a mark of expertise.  Overall, it would seem that whilst cufflinks and shirts are not seen as important as they once were, they nonetheless set a benchmark for efficient, professional work.

Men in Suits!

Women’s office wear has become much more informal. Jersey fabrics and prints are very acceptable nowadays. So if there has been a shift in general opinion of what is acceptable for women, does that mean the boundaries have changed for men too?

The short answer to this is no I am afraid! I do not believe however that this is a double standard. The issue is that whereas for women there are many smart alternatives, the same is not true for men. Anything other than a shirt and tie just looks scruffy. If your role relies on first impressions then by not conforming to this you are doing yourself a disservice. I am also a great believer in the saying ‘Dress for the job you want, not the job you have’. As I think scruffy dressers may be overlooked subconsciously for promotion even if they are equally right for the role. Another factor to consider for the men is that a suit, shirt, cufflinks and tie is very attractive to the ladies!

(photo by Mister Rad)