Style Notes

By Doug Kidd

Executive Summary:

Wardrobe options are changing … lead with the pants.

Don't forget your pants

More business has gone casual, and some sectors such as the construction industry have traditionally been casual anyway. New options are emerging in clothing. It’s possible for an owner or manager to represent a multimillion-dollar business, keep personal image in mind, and make sense of the emerging business casual landscape, all at the same time. Hint: lead with the pants! Decide what level of pant you think matches the image that your business is trying to put forward. An easy way to figure out what to wear for your meetings for the week, is to take a quick look at the many pant options, and then match your top accordingly.

1. Jeans - If you decide jeans, there are many dressier, more professional options now that look more business appropriate. Custom made jeans are now available for the customer who has never been able to find jeans to fit.

2. Technical Fibers/ Cottons - These come in many varieties such as golf pants, work pants, and exercise-based options.

Choose wisely as often a poor choice or fit is not flattering, and not appropriate for some business situations. Custom options now exist in this category to include lounge pants, stretch fabrics, and golf options. (Cargo pants might be making a comeback in a much slimmer look)

3. Five pocket pants - a relative newcomer to the pants scene. This style, cut like a jean, is now available in a variety of fabrics and can be made out of classic dress pant fabrics now too. This niche will prove to be a top seller in 2021.

4. Classic dress slacks - most of pants sold in this category are flat-front. If you are reading this, and still wearing pleats, you might consider a visit to your local haberdasher on the quick.

Lead with the pants, and the outfit will follow.

Doug Kidd is with Tom James Company. He is an image consultant and clothier. Reach him at d.kidd@tomjames.com