7 Steps to Dress the Best.

Standing out from the crowd physically leaves a lasting impression on the consumer as well as your knowledge. I have always had a personal niche for style and not to be out of line; but usually recieve positive comments every day. I guess it runs in my genes because my father and grandfather were both meticulous on there outfits, color tones, fit and general prescene. It is absolutley understandable on the cost of finer dress but to look completely presentable with the right shopping strategy, it is affordable. Generally, it's a must and should be part of your business anyway. You don't need 10-12 Armani custom-suits to look the best (well maybe in some offices). Most of all, it is about having the right colors for your enviroment, fitted and a even assortment. Im sorry ladies, but these tips are directed to the males because I wouldn't say I'm a consignor of womens attire. Hope I can help!

1. Make sure your dress shirt fits you accordingly; personally this is a pet-peeve. If you are a thin guy, wear a slim fit shirt, If you are of medium build wear a classic-fit and so on. Also, always have the shirt pressed and clean. It is essential when you are meeting new clients and making a first impression. You want to appear that you are sophisticated and organized.

2. Adapt to your enviroment. For example, I work at the beach so I am constantly wearing bashe's and light blues a couple times a week. Not to say to eliminate colors but choose accordingly, if you are at the beach on a spring afternoon, dont wear a black suit and grey dress shirt. Vice Versa, if you are in Manhattan on Park Ave. meeting a client in December dont wear exotic dress pants and a pastel dress shirt. Create your own style and brand yourself but keep it on a professional level.

3. The knot. I split up my week 4-3 under my circumstances. I wear a tie approx. 4 times a week. A problem I see amung many professionals is they will have a great suit on and the knot will be sloppy to give them a common place look. That can all be changed with taking an extra minute in the morning.

4. Get a watch. It doesn't have to be the Rolex or Geneve but I wouldn't want to shake hands with a big client with the watch out of the cereal box. Something presentable you can find for 50-100 dollars and you will have it forever essentially. Nothing tacky or overally clustered, plain is always better in business. A leather band is always a nice touch.

5. Shoes. Make sure your dress shoes are clean and polished. When you see a successful person in business, you will notice they usually always have sharp shoes and it is one of the first things observed by a client or colleuge.

6. Dress Pants. Simply, If they are very baggy, dont wear them. Same goes for the suit jacket, a local tailor can fix that usually for under $40.

7. SmartPhone. Show you are up-to-date with the technology. It is the finishing touch and always admired. Plus, it is a hell of alot easier to do business.

Thanks,

Robert J. Santarsiero II

New Jersey Shore Real Estate