How To Dress To Meet a Client

“I’m meeting a client… what do I wear?”

Does that question sound familiar? Depending on what industry and company role you’re in, the answer to this question can be crucial. Are you meeting them for golf, happy hour, or a project proposal meeting? Those are the three contexts with seemingly obvious answers, but you may be surprised.

You need to know how to dress when meeting a client, including what to avoid wearing and why. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Where is the meeting location? If you’re going to a country club, don’t wear jeans. Ever. Even if the country club is more laid back and allows ‘denim’, don’t wear jeans. The quality of the restaurant or meeting place will help set some of the tone for your attire to match. 
• What is the day of the week? Some financial institutions and business firms allow more relaxed workplace attire on Fridays, but that doesn’t mean you can excuse your wardrobe if you’re meeting a high-profile client that same day. Wearing your normal attire on ‘casual Friday’ may make you stand out, but chances are you’ll be standing out to the right people: decision makers in your workplace.
• What’s your relationship to the client? This goes beyond how well you know the client. What is your role in your organization and what is your client’s role in theirs? Dress for a level above their level to communicate intentionality and respect. If they’re a mid-level executive, dress as if you’re meeting their C-Suite executive.
• What’s the personality of the client? Some clients have set standards of decorum, communication, and attire. Wearing less than acceptable clothes, at least in their eyes, can be a distraction. Understand how your attire can match your client’s expectations when it comes to your interactions with them.

Wearing a beautiful bespoke suit is an excellent first choice for many occasions. Our Savile Row staff can help you find the perfect fit for your next suite. In fact, we created a new resource called The Gentleman’s Measurement and Style Guide for your Next Custom Suit. Click the link to download.

Are you preparing to meet a client but don’t know what to wear? Stop by our Clayton location or make an appointment today. It’s our privilege to help you create a ‘wow’ impression at your next client meeting.