Posted on Feb 11, 2015
What one (1) item would you suggest that a Service Member add to their Civilian Wardrobe?
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Per the subject.
I had a pretty decent wardrobe when I got out, but over the next 12 years I have constantly added to it. It would have been a heck of a lot easier had I slowly and surely built it up while I was in.
Assuming that the Veteran has a few good Suits, Slacks, & Shirts to get through the work week. What other item would you add to their "Gear List."
Don't forget to say why.
Go!
I had a pretty decent wardrobe when I got out, but over the next 12 years I have constantly added to it. It would have been a heck of a lot easier had I slowly and surely built it up while I was in.
Assuming that the Veteran has a few good Suits, Slacks, & Shirts to get through the work week. What other item would you add to their "Gear List."
Don't forget to say why.
Go!
Clothing
Fashion and Apparel
Fashion
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 19
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1 item: good shoes. Just like when you were in, don't skimp on these. For outdoor work maybe your boots can still serve. For athletics your sneakers will do. But dear goodness do not wear your choraframs or even your super shined leathers to an interview. Check out some nice Cole Haans. (I just learned this year from Capt (Join to see) )
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Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS
Absolutely!
On the Shoe bit, I'd recommend getting a Belt to match as well. Brown leather for Brown shoes, Black leather for black, etc.
zappos is amazing for getting shoes. Return policy is great, and they usually upgrade you to next day.
On the Shoe bit, I'd recommend getting a Belt to match as well. Brown leather for Brown shoes, Black leather for black, etc.
zappos is amazing for getting shoes. Return policy is great, and they usually upgrade you to next day.
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CPO Jon Campbell
If you aren't working on Wall Street and just need good, average attire, you can go to someplace like Men's Warehouse. Find an associate and tell them you want some suits, shirts, socks, a belt, ties, and some shoes. Be prepared to spend $500- $1000. They will lay out matching shirts and ties. Pick the stuff that isn't too wild. Solid color shirts are best. Go with what they recommend. You can be done in less than an hour and have a weeks woderobe that is tailored for you.
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A concealed weapon license. Too many idiots with guns, not enough who know how to use them.
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SPC Michael Henriksen
And the training to go with it. Knowing how to fire your M16 does not magically transfer volumes of knowledge on hand guns, when and where you may carry or engage.
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A decent civilian-friendly watch. That means:
- Not black
- Not digital
- Not crazy waterproof
- Not shock proof
When you see somebody in a suit wearing a G-shock watch, you know it's a military person going through transition.
- Not black
- Not digital
- Not crazy waterproof
- Not shock proof
When you see somebody in a suit wearing a G-shock watch, you know it's a military person going through transition.
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SFC (Join to see)
Sgt Aaron Kennedy, I think the Sub or Seamaster is a bit sporty. Maybe the Day-Date II is more appropriate for the formal wear. Personally, I prefer the platinum with the ice blue Roman numeral dial.
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Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS
@wilson fung I'd lean towards a Celini honestly if I money were no concern. But I love the Sub no date. Something about it's simple elegance.
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CSM Charles Hayden
1LT (Anonymous) For wear with a gown.
I do not think that would fly for everyday wear in a world where Lululemon’a are mildly acceptable for business wear.
I do not think that would fly for everyday wear in a world where Lululemon’a are mildly acceptable for business wear.
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Suspended Profile
CSM Charles Hayden - Lululemon year is not a acceptable business wear anwhere near anyone I have worked with in decades. The gate guards would not pass anyone wearing exercise outfits, excepting perhaps professional sports folk. Warmest Regards, Sandy :)
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Khakis (jk), actually a solid colored (blue or black) suit of good quality is a must for interviews, and if properly cared for will last for many years of regular workplace wear. If it is a conservative business cut and tailored well, it will serve a number of purposes and functions. Other items to add to the gear list could be a good sweater (depends on climate of course), overcoat (also depends on climate), and a quality belt (reversible if available). I hope this helps, best of luck!
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Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS
Honestly Khakis are a great investment. Having 3-5 pair just makes sense. Especially in the realm of "Business Casual."
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Everyone touched on some good items, but I have to go back to the gentle reminder that although you may have a suit...make sure it fits well. I've been through too many job fairs (on both sides of the table) where it's pretty obvious the suits/civilian attire came right off the rack at the Exchange.
Also, please, please, please remember to match the color of your belt to the color of your shoes.
Also, please, please, please remember to match the color of your belt to the color of your shoes.
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For the gentlemen, I'd recommend a pair of golf slacks, they can double as office slacks but also look sharp while on casual/professional outings and still be comfortable in the heat (things like actual golf, barbecues, etc).
For ladies, a classic, neutral colored, and well fitted blazer. Several studies indicate that professional women are regarded as more important/influential if they wear jackets or blazers over their office attire.
For ladies, a classic, neutral colored, and well fitted blazer. Several studies indicate that professional women are regarded as more important/influential if they wear jackets or blazers over their office attire.
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Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS
Great point on the Blazer. I'd recommend a Blazer or Sports Jacket for a male as well. It's less formal than a suit, but more formal than just slacks/shirt.
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I'm going to buck the trend a little here and suggest comfortable, and semi-formal, shoes. The wingtips and other traditional shoes are great investments for interviews and few other specific occasions, but most civilian work environments are not as formal, nor do they require you to sit at your desk all day. Even in an office setting, a lot of jobs require you to be on your feet a lot. I would suggest finding something that looks a little less formal but feels more like an athletic shoe. I'm a teacher, so I rarely sit down during the day. Being comfortable on my feet takes a little more priority than having a formally fashionable look.
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A good Navy Blazer
http://anaffordablewardrobe.blogspot.com/2013/03/all-in-details.html
http://anaffordablewardrobe.blogspot.com/2013/03/all-in-details.html
An Affordable Wardrobe: All In The Details
Another lovely ensemble! And I envy you both eh jacket and pants. I've recently been watching a bunch of old Leave It to Beaver episodes from the late 50s and early 60s on Netflix, and the older son 'Wally' frequently has on button-down shirts but worn with the collar buttons undone. Anyway, a good look you've got happening there.Best Regards,Heinz-Ulrich von B.
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I know this feed is a year old, but I always thought that a good pocket knife is essential.
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