designers don't wear design
Out of context: Reply #14
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- phaln0
With all the talk of growing conservatism surrounding Corporate America, especially in attire, this thread really has surprised me.
For me, it all depends on the client. If I'm collaborating with another design group as a freelancer and I know their standard attire, I dress similarly. Whether that be a t-shirt and jeans, or business casual, I always try to assimilate my dress style to their environment.
If it's a major corporation I have to walk into, I often throw on a suit, sometimes with, and sometimes without a tie. Particularly with the latter, you show a professional image while also exuding the essence of casual cool (at least to the corporate-types). They know you mean business, but they also realize that you aren't "one of them". It also displays a modicum of respect without downdressing so much that they wonder what alley you dropped in from.
I don't know why so many of you have problems with suits. If you want to look professional, you need to dress professional, with that creative touch that sets you apart from the rest. Given the current business climate, I think it's important now more than ever. You don't need Armani, Prada, or that bullshit. Just look professional. Simple as that.
I figure I have 16 other hours in the day when I can dress the way I want, so 8 hours of dressing the part to feed my bottom line isn't going to kill me.