As you transition from student life to the working world, are you feeling stressed about how to dress in a business style? -- The first 1-3 years as a freshman are a time to gain the trust of those around you by skillfully and efficiently mixing and matching basic suits. Kazuki Iwami, a men's category specialist at Isetan Shinjuku, who supports customers looking for dress (suit style), will propose Monday-to-Friday outfits with the theme of "dressing appropriately for a new working professional."

The purpose of wearing a suit differs from high school to university, and from university to working life.

When listening to customers who say, "I don't know what kind of suit to buy," those transitioning from high school to university often need a suit that can be used for formal occasions like weddings and funerals, while those transitioning from university to working adults need a suit for business. Since the situations in which they will wear the suit are different, the colors and patterns of their shirts and ties, as well as the design of their shoes, will also change.



Some customers initially only want a suit, but if you buy a suit first and then try to match it with shirts, ties, shoes, belts, and socks later, it often ends up looking mismatched. You need to choose shirts, ties, shoes, and belts to match the color and fabric of the suit you choose. For this reason, it's recommended to buy them as a package rather than separately, as it eliminates the hassle of choosing combinations. Furthermore, thinking about coordination as a package allows you to consider your outfits for several years in advance and makes it easier to imagine what you'll need to buy next.

A professional gives a clear answer! The most important thing for a new employee's attire is cleanliness.

Since I became a working adult more than ten years ago, I've always considered "navy suit, white shirt, and navy tie" to be my basic, timeless style. Until now, fashion has been about "how I want to look," but as a working adult, I want you to think about "how you want to be perceived." First, for about three years, as you learn the ropes, focus on mastering the orthodox suit style. You can incorporate your favorite colors and patterns into your business attire once you feel more comfortable.

As a new employee, you'll be meeting many people for the first time, so first impressions are very important, and the most important thing people check is your "cleanliness." A suit without wrinkles or stains, a properly ironed shirt, and a tie that isn't loosely tied—a neat appearance gives a youthful and fresh impression. Of course, the right size is also key. If your suit and shirt don't fit properly, you'll look sloppy and loose, so pay close attention to this.

These are the essential items that new employees should have to start with to feel confident!

■【Suits】2 suits (plain navy, gray shadow stripe)

The basic principle of suit maintenance is to let it rest for a day after wearing it. For wool suits, brushing after each wear should also be a daily routine. You should have at least two suits.

■【Jacket & Slacks】(Navy jacket, gray slacks)

On company-designated casual days, I wear a jacket and slacks to work. A navy blazer is a good choice.

■ [Shirts] (5 shirts for 5 days, Monday to Friday)

A freshman needs a total of five shirts: two plain white shirts, one light blue shirt, one light blue striped shirt, and one button-down shirt. Two white shirts are essential because they go well with both navy and gray and are versatile. One plain light blue shirt goes well with a navy suit, one light blue striped shirt, and one button-down shirt for casual outfits. Since laundry is difficult in the middle of the week, it's best to have five shirts.

■【Neckties】(5 neckties for 5 days, Monday to Friday)

Ideally, you should have the same number of ties as shirts, including plain navy ties, regimental ties, and burgundy ties that look great with a gray suit.

■【Shoes】(Black and brown leather shoes)

I chose the punched cap-toe design. Straight-tip shoes, which are considered a staple for business attire, tend to be more formal and give off a slightly stiff impression, so I'm getting punched cap-toe shoes in both black and brown so that they can be worn with jacket and trouser styles as well.

Cleverly mixing and matching outfits for five working days will improve both your impression and your overall image!

[Monday] Choose navy to start the week off.

Navy suit x plain light blue shirt x navy regimental tie x black cap-toe shoes



For the V-zone of a navy suit, pair it with a wide-collared light blue shirt and a regimental tie. The cool colors create a clean and refreshing impression. Match your socks to the suit color and your belt to your shoes – this is a golden rule. Avoid a pocket square during your first year. The shirt is wrinkle-resistant, meaning it can be worn without ironing after washing, making it very convenient.

[Tuesday] Change your mood and embrace a classic atmosphere.

Gray suit × plain white shirt × burgundy tie × brown cap-toe shoes



On Tuesday, I completely changed my look from Monday, opting for a gray pinstripe suit, a white shirt, and a burgundy tie. Brown leather shoes added a more classic touch. The shirt features a regular collar with a narrow neckline, ensuring a good tie fit and creating a positive impression.

[Wednesday] Jacket and trousers are perfect for the company-designated casual day.

Navy jacket x white button-down shirt x navy knit tie x black cap-toe shoes



For a casual day out, a navy blazer and gray wool slacks are the main focus. Don't forget to wear a tie with a button-down shirt and knit tie to project a professional, work-ready image.

[Thursday] How to dress in a navy suit for a more youthful look

Navy suit x blue striped shirt x plain navy tie x brown cap-toe shoes



I balanced the V-zone of the navy suit I wore on Monday with a refreshing light blue London stripe shirt and a plain navy tie for a clean and fresh look. The youthful London stripe pattern and the tie with its subdued sheen make for a highly versatile combination.

[Friday] A sophisticated look with calm gray tones.

Gray suit × plain white shirt × gray regimental tie × black cap-toe shoes



I wore a gray suit on Tuesday, paired with a plain white regular-collar shirt and a regimental tie to create a calm and composed look in the V-zone. Black leather shoes complete the look, giving the feet a polished finish.

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