Packing for a business trip is a lot different than any other vacation. You somehow have to keep company guidelines in mind while figuring out how to dress for the climate. You can’t pack a swimsuit and a pair of flip-flops with a few short-shorts and some tank tops. As an employee (or business owner), it is your responsibility to represent the company no matter how tropical the destination might be.
So, what should you pack for your summer business trip? Here are a few items to keep in mind:
Printed Short-Sleeve or Tank Tops
Whether the dress code is business casual or corporate, you can’t go wrong with a few printed short-sleeve shirts and tank tops. The materials are light enough that you won’t burn up at your corporate event, but the style is still classic and professional. They can easily be thrown under a cover-up to cover your arms, shoulders, and back if necessary. Instead of going with solid colors, however, look for bright summery prints that you like. This gives you a pop of color and style.
Solid Bottoms
You don’t want to overdo it on the bold prints and vibrant patterns, so when it comes to packing bottoms, it is best to keep it basic. For guys, it is ideal to pack a few pairs of slacks in basic colors like black, navy, and tan. Ladies can take the same route or they can opt to wear skirts instead that coordinate with their printed tops. If you’ll have time after your event is over to enjoy yourself, then, of course, you can pack a pair of short-shorts, cargo shorts, or leggings for your trip as well.
Comfy Underwear
You don’t want to be pulling up your bra strap, digging at the underwire, or grabbing your undies out your bottom all day. Not only is this uncomfortable but really unprofessional. So, leave all the sexy undies at home and opt for comfortable underwear. Cotton bras with maximum support and matching panties should do the trick. For guys, boxers, briefs, and undershirts are advised. When choosing your underwear keep colors in mind. If you have on a white shirt, you don’t want to have a bright pink bra showing underneath.
Comfortable Dress Shoes
Though it would be nice if you could throw on some flip-flops or sneakers to get through the day, chances are it isn’t allowed in the corporate environment. So, it would be wise for you to invest in one or two pairs of comfortable dress shoes. A nice leather ballet flat for ladies is appropriate while a simple loafer might work well for the gentlemen. If it’s a bit more upscale, steer clear of shoes with too high of a heel or it could backfire – literally. Make sure you’ve worn them in a bit before your trip so you’re not limping around halfway through the day. Keep shoe styles and colors simplistic so as not to overdo it.
Summer Dress and Suit
Most corporate events have at least one upscale event such as a dinner for clients. If this is the case, you can’t waltz in with your swimsuit and coverup on. You’ll need to have the appropriate attire. Ladies, you have the advantage here with plenty of summer dress styles to choose from. Be sure that it is not too low-cut, see-through, or revealing. If you need to cover your arms or shoulders, a nice shawl or summer fashion scarf would work without making you too hot. As for the guys, you’ll need to pack a suit. There are summer suits made from more breathable fabrics to keep you cool.
Accessories
Accessories help to make the outfit. Since you’re trying to impress, you want to make sure you’ve packed a few items. Some studs and a necklace for women and a nice watch and cufflinks for the guys is an option. Just make sure that they’re not too bold but just enough to give your business attire an extra pop. You may also need to pack hair ties or pins, neckties, a purse or wallet, and a pair of sunglasses for sun protection.
It can get tricky when you’re packing for business travel. You don’t want to violate any of your company’s dress codes but you also don’t want to burn up and pass out in the middle of an event. Fortunately, there are solutions for each of these issues. Simply use the guide above to select items that should be fit for the boardroom, conference center, restaurant, or wherever else you should find yourself during your business venture.
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