Dressing for Cold Weather Client Meetings: Impressions Matter

Getting dressed for an important client meeting can be tricky business, and for many people, it becomes even more challenging during the winter season. How do you find outfits that are sleek and polished yet practical and designed to keep you safe and warm? In this post, we will take a look at a few ways to dress for cold weather client meetings successfully.

Layer For Style and Warmth

Layering your clothing appropriately is one of the most effective ways to stay warm in the winter while achieving a stylish and professional image. If you are enduring brutally cold winter temps, start with a base layer, such as a snug thermal shirt that hugs the skin. Over that, you can layer a crisp button down dress shirt and or a high quality cashmere sweater. For an additional layer that adds warmth and texture, consider completing the look with a tailored blazer. And on those especially cold winter days, trade the blazer for a thick winter coat.

Experiment with Rich, Dark Tones and Elegant Patterns

Dark colors tend to be more professional and slimming and look most stunning in the winter season against a snowy backdrop. Some colors that never fail to look polished and striking in professional settings include black, navy, burgundy, and dark green. Keeping with the theme of neutral tones, you can also incorporate lighter shades like gray and camel. All of these colors are versatile and offer a flattering look on both men and women. If you want to add a pop of color to your outfit, choose small accents, such as a scarf in a bright shade or elegant but vibrantly colored jewelry.

Prints can be tricky for professional attire, but subtle patterns like pinstripes or herringbone can add unique detail to your outfit without being too distracting. If you want to wear a bolder print, make sure to balance it out with neutral or solid colored pieces in your outfit. Remember that the goal is to look polished and put-together, so avoid any loud or flashy prints that might distract from your professionalism.

Invest in Quality Outerwear

A professional-looking coat is an absolute must when it comes to creating your work wardrobe for the winter season. When it comes to buying outerwear, it is well worth it to pay a little extra to have a high quality coat that will last you for multiple winters. Some functional and stylish outerwear ideas that will complement the rest of your professional winter outfit include:

A wool or cashmere blend long coat or trench coat in a classic style and color like black, camel, or navy.
A tailored blazer in a warm fabric like wool or tweed.
A quilted, waterproof puffer jacket in a neutral color like black or navy.
A leather or faux leather jacket in a sleek and simple design or color.
A wool pea coat in a classic color like navy or gray.

Besides style and functionality, you should also consider the level of formality required for your workplace, as well as your personal preferences and body type. Some other factors to keep in mind include the quality and durability of the materials used, the fit and silhouette of the outerwear, and any special features or details that might be useful in harsh winter conditions, such as a hood, pockets, or insulation. Additionally, make sure to choose outerwear that is easy to care for and maintain, so you can keep it looking great for multiple winters to come.

Complete Your Outfit with High Quality Footwear

Certain dress shoes can be slippery in the winter, so opt for boots or shoes with sturdy soles and good traction as well as comfort and plenty of support. Shop around for leather or suede boots that will keep your feet warm and professional-looking. Once again, it’s important to consider the level of formality required for your workplace and choose footwear that complements your professional attire. A few ideas include:

Leather or suede ankle boots with a low heel in a neutral color like black, brown, or dark gray.
Knee-high boots with a chunky heel in a classic color like black or dark brown.
Women’s loafers in a durable material like leather or suede.
Waterproof boots with a sleek design and warm lining.

Accessorize Strategically

Accessories can make a big difference in how professional you look (and how warm you stay) during the winter months. The accessories you choose should be both stylish and functional, and some ideas include:

Dress scarves made from warm and durable materials like wool or cashmere in neutral colors or patterns that complement your outfits
Gloves made from high-quality leather or suede in a classic color like black or brown
Hats that provide warmth and protection from the cold, such as a beanie or a wool fedora.