IT Workers Worst Dressed

Date: 17 November 2005 23:39:20

From The Sydney Morning Herald (may require free registration):

More than 150 tech professionals attended a corporate fashion show in Sydney last night as organisers officially dubbed the industry "the worst dressed" in Australia.

Short sleeved shirts, man-made fibres and the wrong coloured socks were some of the most common fashion faux-pas cited by corporate stylist, Melanie Moss, who hosted the event.

Oh well. I could think of worst things to be called. I'm fascinated that "short-sleeved shirts" make the list; it does get rather hot here in Oz and when you're fiddling with cables and moving computers around comfort is generally higher in priority than looking good.

But I think I try and make an effort each day; my belt matches my shoes, I ensure (as best I can) the colours go together, and I try and look tidy. And I think K-Mart and Target do a good enough job. I'm not going to be following the 'fashion consultants' advice, though:

Her top tip for those seeking a fresh look is to photograph a variety of nice combinations from your wardrobe to use as a reference when dressing in the morning.

She also recommends looking through magazines to get a feel for what suits you. "This is about thinking about what suits you instead of following trends," she said.

I don't begrudge those who look spend a lot of money on looking good (I spend mine on holidays and books!) As long as I'm showered, am clean and look presentable -- I'm happy.