CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

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From Power Suits to Hoodies: The Changing Business Dress Code in 2022

The 1980s and 1990s were the era of wearing power suits, and they defined the business environment. As times change, so does the corporate dress code.

Wearing yoga pants and a shirt on a conference call or a hoodie at Google’s office is the new normal. The business dress code is becoming more casual and flexible to highlight our skills and performance but is still imbued with a fashion sense.

Here is what the office style in 2022 looks like.

The tech industry pioneering casual attire

Big companies like Google, Twitter, and Facebook are famous for their casual office attire. Dressed in hoodies, jeans, and trainers, the employees behind Sundar Pichai, Evan Williams, and Mark Zuckerburg are headlining the fashion trends in the tech industry.

While the “dress to impress” mantra is still valid, the changes in the dress code prove that it’s not all about the looks. Intellect and performance are more important in business nowadays, especially in the digital-first ambience, and the above successful companies are showing that.

After the casual dress code revolutionised the tech industry, it also caught up with the booming landscape of start-ups. During the rise of start-up culture, many small businesses quickly grew to become corporate giants, and they did that in an informal atmosphere.

The casual dress code is causing a ripple-down effect, as other industries are chiming in on the trend.

Other industries embracing the casual dress code

“Dress codes in the finance sector have historically had the most conservative, formal standards, and even those are changing,” said New York-based stylist, personal shopper, and an alumna for Goldman Sachs Jessica Cadmus.

Working as a stylist in the corporate world, around 90% of Cadmus’ clients are in the finance industry, leaning towards casual attire at the workplace.

In 2019, the Wall Street titan Goldman Sachs published a memo announcing a shift towards “a more casual environment”, which allows a more flexible attire. And they’re not the only ones. Morgan Stanley and other investment banks are also embracing the change.

Other industries are also not falling behind. The British airline Virgin Atlantic also relaxed its dress codeby allowing flight attendants to wear pants and not forcing them to put make-up on so that they have “an increased level of comfort” and “more choice” to express individuality. Target has also allowed employees to wear blue jeans not just on holidays and weekends but every day at work.

Gen Zs are shaping the new business dress code

The emerging cohort of workers leading the way in innovation is Gen Z. The tech-savvy, digital-first, and fashion-forward Gen Zs are the sought-after generation by any aspiring company. As such, businesses are adapting their corporate dress codes to suit the trendy aspirations of Gen Zs and attract top talent.

The new dress code is dictated by the latest trends in menswear, taking a more flexible approach.

That means that knitwear will dominate the office style during sweater weather, as worn by Hollywood stars Tom Hardy and Dwayne Johnson. Wider cuts, such as oversized chinos, belted overcoats, and men’s loafers, are the top fashion and shoe trends for this autumn, so expect to see more of that around the office.

In terms of accessories, Forbes Magazine predicts that “high-end luxury watches will become even more important markers of success”.

The shift towards a more casual dress code is accelerating as employees are looking to embrace comfort and individuality. A more flexible work attire means a happier workforce, better productivity, and more gains for the company

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It’s not just wellies they do ! HUNTER’S NEW AUTUMN/WINTER 2022 COLLECTION EMBRACES A NEW ERA OF EXPLORATION

When you think of the humble but universally amazing form of footwear, the honest Wellington Boot, one brand automatically springs to mind. Yes, HUNTER, from Kate Moss to Hollywood Royalty and from the actual Royal Family to yours truly all are advocates for this brand’s products.

But it’s not just all about the Welly, HUNTER are far more than a one trick pony when it come to, not just, apparel but footwear and accessories too.

Hunter introduces its Autumn/Winter 2022 collection – a celebration of nature and the multifaceted world outside, inspired by the striking landscapes that emerge as the seasons change. It embraces individual perspectives, taking us trekking through through forests and on more everyday adventures in the country and city streets.

Welcoming new styles into its collections, although Hunter loves its icons, it is a brand that stands for more than rubber wellington boots. At the crossroads of fashion and function, Hunter products are just as at home on the concrete and pavements as they are amongst more epic landscapes – because the outdoors has endless possibilities.

Hunter stays true to its ongoing commitment to positive change through Hunter Protect by introducing more sustainability-led fabrics into the collection. All polyester linings are now recycled, more accessories are crafted from recycled materials, and more FSC -certified Boots have been introduced – part of a mission to ensure that all rubber boots are FSC- certified by 2025.

Hunter has embodied outdoor exploration for over 160 years, and this season, the brand is excited to introduce a range that represents a vision for what that means in a new era – the Explorer. Everyday exploration happens everywhere. It is a daily pursuit of new experiences. Imparted with a spirit of discovery, Explorer brings an outdoor edge to the city and style to off-road adventures. Pieces include the Explorer Boot, the City Explorer Boot, the Rebel Explorer Boot, and Explorer jackets and backpacks.

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Be safe, Be seen – MADISON CLOTHING RELEASE HI-VIZ COMMUTER CYCLING RANGE

As cycling levels in rise again due to cash-strapped commuters driving less, leading British cycling brand Madison have released a new range of reflective cycling apparel to help keep cyclists safe and seen as Autumn approaches. Available to view and purchase online at freewheel.co.uk

Founded in 1977, Madison Clothing has been outfitting cyclists with elegant and functional apparel using the latest technologies for over four decades. Allowing wearers to fully concentrate on the ride and enjoy all the benefits that come with being on two wheels.

Resetting the standard for affordable hi-visibility apparel, Madison proudly presents a capsule range of reflective cycling jackets and gilets for men and women – each designed to provide comfort, protection against the elements and sublime low-light visibility. All styles encapsulated within the brand’s ‘Stellar’ range that’s designed and tested with the commuter cyclist in mind.

For those who enjoy the darkest of commutes or simply want maximum 360° visibility on the bike, look no further for a jacket that offers the perfect blend of performance, function and design. Constructed from waterproof and breathable mesh lined fabric that’s rated at 10k/6k. Meaning it can withstand 10,000m of water per square inch from the outside, and releases 6,000g of water vapour per square metre from the inside.

This level of breathability ensures comfortable rides during temperature downpours as seen in the UK and is further heightened by innovative rear panels that have been perforated to boost breathability but are still resistant to water ingress.

Finer details of the jacket include elasticated cuffs that securely seal over wrists and gloves, even when riding at speed, plus a soft-to-touch fabric collar to give riders a comfortable range of head movement when scanning their surroundings.

Plus, the perfect lightweight layering piece to maximize low light visibility to all other road users, the Stellar Shine Reflective Gilet steals style and design cues from its same-named jacket counterpart.

A great layering option when it’s cool and dry, the added benefit of this sleeveless hi-viz garment is wholly unrestrictive arm and hand movements when turning and signaling. Clever design features include ‘pack into pocket’ stowability, a full-length water resistant zipper for maximum air-flow in the heat and a zippered chest pocket for any small valuables.

Elasticated mesh drop pockets can be found on both hips for further storage, he mesh lined waterproof fabric keeping your core dry in any flash rainstorms you might encounter with the added protection of an elasticated dropped hem.

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Dress for Success – Moss Bros. reveals their Interview Dressing Guide for “what to wear to an interview”

With more and more people heading back to the office, interviews are taking place in person again. As this happens people are starting to wonder how exactly do you dress for an interview after 2 years of video interviews and track pants? Those well dress and ever so dapper experts over at Moss Bros. have broken it down into a handy guide. 

Searches for “what to wear to an interview” are up 16% in the past month! 

You want your interviewer to picture you doing the job that you’re interviewing for. What you wear needs to show you’re serious about the role but also that you’re a good fit for the company culture – a three-piece suit is pretty much mandatory for a City job, but wear one to a creative agency and they might mistake you for their accountant.

One-third of British men feel most professional and confident in a tailored suit! 

That said, great tailoring does wonders for your confidence across the board. We surveyed British men and over a third of them said they felt most professional and confident in a tailored suit. It follows, then, that making an effort to dress smartly will impress your interviewer and also give you a boost of confidence when it matters. 

So, back to the question in hand: what to wear to an interview? Our advice is to tailor your outfit to the kind of company that’s interviewing you. Here’s our take on what to wear for four types of interviews: corporate, business professional, business casual and creative.

WHAT TO WEAR FOR A CORPORATE INTERVIEW

The first rule of the corporate world? Wear a suit. If you’re interviewing for a role in finance, law or another hierarchal private sector company, you’re going to need to bring out your tailoring A-game.

The expectation will be for you to dress conservatively, so a three-piece suit is a smart move. Don’t just dig out your old black one though, you should step it up a little if you want to make a memorable impression with what to wear for an interview.

Searches for “3 piece suits” are up 64% in the last 6 months!

Navy is universally accepted as businesswear as well as universally flattering. You can get away with a subtle pattern, like this navy suit. It’s a modern take on the classic checked uniform but sharply cut in a slim fit.

Searches for “Navy 3 piece suit” are up 280% since the start of the year!

As for the tie? A striped one is a classic for a reason and will allow a little colour without going overboard.

WHAT TO WEAR FOR A BUSINESS-PROFESSIONAL INTERVIEW

Business professional can be decoded quite simply as ‘suits’. This is the world of 9-5 and office uniforms that haven’t quite got the business-casual memo yet. A suit is a safe bet, but you don’t need to be quite as formal as you would in a corporate environment. You’re going to want your interviewer’s attention on you rather than what you’re wearing, but that’s not to say a little pattern won’t help you stand out.

A checked suit will show a little personality but keep it to a neutral base colour to stay in line with traditional businesswear. 

“Checked suits” have seen a 63% increase this year!

Keep the rest of your outfit simple: an open-necked shirt is more relaxed than a buttoned-up shirt-and-tie combo or opt for a grandad collar shirt. Plain white looks polished and professional. 

Searches for “white grandad collar shirt” have increased 152% and searches for “white dress shirt” have increased 87% since January!

Shoe-wise, a pair of brown lace-ups will set this suit off nicely. 

WHAT TO WEAR FOR A BUSINESS-CASUAL INTERVIEW

Business casual turns formal down even more. It’s likely to be the sort of office where tailored trousers and a sweater are the norm, but you’ll have to dress more smartly when you’re meeting clients or doing a big presentation.

Here’s where your suit starts to look a little overdressed, but you’ll still be expected to err on the side of formal. Tailored separates in more casual fabrics and a little pattern clashing to stand out from the crowd are the sweet spot in this situation.

Going for a puppytooth jacket in a neutral shade will give you a more relaxed feel but due to its slim fit give the overall effect of being pulled together. Show your more daring side by clashing the puppytooth pattern with checked trousers. Navy, brown and green look great with beige. The real key to coulour pairing is to keep your shades in a similar mid-tone. 

Almost 1 million people have searched for “checked trousers” this year!

Continue your masterful use of colour in the form of a deep-toned roll neck and finish with polished burgundy shoes. 

Searches for “roll necks” are up 13% in the past several months!

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Panerai and the U.S. Navy SEALs Initiate a Partnership

Founded in Florence in 1860 as a workshop, shop and subsequently school of watch-making, for many decades Panerai supplied the Italian Navy and its specialist diving corps in particular with precision instruments.

The designs developed by Panerai in that time, including the Luminor and Radiomir, were covered by the Military Secrets Act for many years and were launched on the international market only after the brand was acquired by the Richemont Group in 1997.

Today Panerai develops and crafts its movements and watches at its Neuchâtel manufacture. The latter are a seamless melding of Italian design flair and history with Swiss horological expertise. Panerai watches are sold across the world through an exclusive network of distributors and Panerai boutiques.

Creating timepieces for the Italian Navy helped solidify the brand’s connection to the sea and pioneer covert exploration. Now the legacy continues through a capsule of three watches that draw on the heritage of the United States Navy SEALs. Each reference is from the Submersible Collection, which are characterized as instruments with specialized diving features, and developed with the approval of the elite military force.

Caliber P.900/GMT animates both the Submersible Navy SEALs Carbotech Edition and Submersible Navy SEALs Edition. The self-winding movement is equipped with central hour and minute hands, a small seconds dial at 9 o’clock, the date at 3 o’clock, and a GMT display of a second time zone. Two spring barrels store energy supplying a three- day power reserve.

Submersible Navy SEALs Carbotech Edition is limited to only 162 pieces, an edition chosen to honor the founding year of the SEALs: 1962. And the words “Navy SEALs” appear on the dial to openly spotlight the collaboration. Every aspect of the watch design merges rigorously considered details that evoke the legacy of the SEALs. The case is fashioned from Carbotech, a composite material based on carbon fiber, while forged carbon composes the dial; its variegated coloration resembles the look of camouflage.

The Navy SEALs emblem is engraved on the caseback, consisting of an eagle clutching a flintlock-style pistol, a trident, and an anchor. The image appears against a stars and stripes background framed by the words United States Navy Seals.

A sophisticated watch brimming with functions for the exploits of modern heroes, the Submersible Navy SEALs Experience Edition is limited to only 20 pieces, with each purchaser receiving access to an adventure that will immerse guests in the history of the Navy SEALs and grant rare, first-hand exposure to the rigorous physical, emotional and mental demands of SEAL training. Outfitted in authentic gear, from camouflage tactical uniforms to the MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) that SEALs eat in the field, participants will travel by helicopter and amphibious vehicles to perform exercises by SEa, Land and Air, culminating in the simulation of a historical raid. The experience concludes with a luncheon at the National UDT -Navy SEAL Museum and a commencement ceremony to honor a shared expedition. Every member of the mission will confront and transcend personal limits under the guidance of some of the world’s most tenacious warriors, along with a Panerai instrument created to withstand the most challenging environments imaginable

Being always committed to remaining at the forefront of new technology in manufacture and beyond, Panerai has partnered with Skygolpe, a widely acclaimed multidisciplinary Italian artist and visionary creative in the digital sphere, who will create NFT artworks to be delivered to clients as part of their purchase of the Submersible Navy SEALs Experience Edition.

Not only will the NFT unlock information tailored to each client’s excursion, but it will also unlock benefits, such as priority access to future initiatives, special services and events, on a rolling basis long after the experience ends. Acquiring a Submersible Navy SEALs Experience Edition will be the beginning of an adventure that won’t end but only evolve with time.