How to Dress for a Networking Event in Washington, DC
Networking events are an essential part of the professional world, and it’s important to dress appropriately for them. As the capital city of the United States, Washington DC is a hub for business events. Whether you’re attending a cocktail party, dinner, or a casual happy-hour, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide to dressing for networking events in DC.
What Is Appropriate Attire?
When dressing for networking events in DC, business casual or business professional attire is typically expected. In business professional environments, men should opt for a well-tailored suit and dress shoes while women can choose a pencil skirt or pant suit with a tailored blouse. But if the dress code calls for business casual, don't fret! You can still look professional and approachable by combining a blazer or sport coat with dress pants for men or a blouse and a blazer with trousers or a skirt for women. Remember, your attire speaks volumes about you and your brand, so dress confidently and own the room! When it comes to footwear, go for something classic like loafers or brogues that won't overwhelm your look for men and a simple heel or flat for women.
Think about your personal style.
Do you prefer a classic look or something more modern? Do you like to stand out from the crowd or blend in? There are suits to suit every style, so take some time to weigh the options in your wardrobe and find one that reflects your personality. If you don’t have one and it’s time to go shopping, shop intentionally and find pieces that will be versatile with what you already own and for the environments in which you’ll need to wear them. Evaluating your personal style is an important part of building a wardrobe that reflects who you are. When you take the time to understand your own style, you can make informed decisions about the clothes you buy and wear. Here are a few tips to help you evaluate your personal style.
Consider your lifestyle.
What do you do for a living? What are your hobbies? What kind of activities do you like to do in your free time? Your lifestyle will play a big role in determining your personal style. If you have a formal job, you'll need to dress differently than if you have a more casual job. And if your job requires you to move around a lot, you’ll need to consider the use cases and versatility of a garment compared to a desk job.
Think about your body type.
What are your best features? What are your least favorite features? Your body type will also play a role in determining your personal style. Below are the body types for both women and men and advice on what to strive for and what to avoid when shopping.
Men
Trapezoid
From a societal perspective, the trapezoid shape tends to be the “ideal” or standard male body type. It consists of broad shoulders and a wide chest, with a slim waist and legs. Off the rack clothing usually fits this body type best. Daniel Craig is an example of a trapezoid type.
Individuals with trapezoid body types have a variety of clothing options to choose from. Since the body tends to be naturally balanced, neutrals or colors and details can be spread throughout an outfit without having to balance one part of the body.
Triangle
The triangle shape has narrow shoulders compared to the waist. This body type is similar to the oval, but has narrower shoulders. The top half of the body tends to be larger than the bottom half, and should be considered when dressing to create more balance between the two. Comedian Michael McIntyre is an example of the triangle shape.
The best clothes for triangles are those that will balance the top half with the bottom half and create the illusion of broader shoulders. Dark or neutral tones should be worn on top while details, patterns, and color can be worn on the bottom. Tailored clothing is helpful for this type and horizontal stripes should be avoided.
Inverted Triangle
The inverted triangle is similar to the trapezoid shape but has wider shoulders and a slimmer waist. Because the shoulders are so wide, the top half of the body can look much wider compared to the slim hips and legs that inverted triangles usually have. This body type tends to have lean and long legs. Because of their natural qualities and training, male swimmers usually have a trapezoid or inverted triangle shape. Michael Phelps represents the inverted triangle well.
Like the trapezoid, the inverted triangle will generally fit well in off-the-rack clothing. Because of their slim waist, shirts may seem baggy depending on the type and width. Tops should be more fitted with a v-neck shape to create the illusion of balance for the shoulders. Straight or slim pants will look best on this body type. Given the slight v-shape, horizontal stripes could be avoided on the top since they create a wider look compared to the bottom half of the body.
Rectangle
The rectangle shape is very proportional between the waist and hips. As its name suggests, this body type has very few curves and follows the straight lines of a rectangle shape. People with this body shape tend to be slim and have a smaller chest and seat. Harry Styles is a classic example of a rectangle shape.
As with any body type, rectangle shapes should follow the lines of their bodies when it comes to clothing. Straight and fitted clothing will look best on this type. Mid-rise pants work well for this type since they can elongate the legs (depending on how tall the individual is). Straight-leg or slim-fit pants look best on this body type. Unlike most body types, rectangle shapes can wear more angular clothing and patterns that include rectangles and vertical lines.
Oval
The oval or round shape is characterized by a wider waist, slim hips, chest, and shoulders. Men with this body type usually have a larger top half compared to the bottom half and a rounder face. This body type generally has a slimmer seat and legs. To compensate for this, the style focus should be on creating a balance between the shoulders, waist, and legs. James Corden is an example of a round body type.
For clothing, round types should focus on building up their shoulders. Pieces on the top should be dark or neutral, while patterns or brighter colors can be worn on the bottom. Tailoring jackets and pants will enhance the overall look for these body types. Horizontal stripes should be avoided.
Women
Standard Shape
Although not frequently mentioned, the standard female body shape is notable because it tends to be the average body type. Standard shapes are generally proportional all over and their bust and hips are the same width. Their waists come slightly in, but not so much as an hourglass.
Standard shapes can wear a variety of clothing, fabrics, and prints. Maintaining the proportionality that these bodies naturally have is important to consider. Putting an emphasis on the waistline while preserving the balance between the shoulders and hips is ideal. Boxy dresses and shapeless outfits do not suit this body type since the fabric could overwhelm the overall body structure.
Rectangle
The rectangle, or H-shape, is similarly proportional to the standard shape, but there is little to no waist definition. As its name suggests, this body type has very few curves and follows the straight lines of a rectangle shape. People with this body shape tend to have a smaller bust and seat. Kate Hudson and Kate Middleton are examples of classic H shapes.
As with any body type, rectangle shapes should follow the lines of their bodies when it comes to dressing. Straight and fitted clothing, particularly tops, will look best on this type. The boyfriend fit also works well. Wearing mid-rise or high-rise bottoms or adding a belt to a dress gives the illusion of a defined waist. Straight-leg and slightly flared jeans look best on this body type. Unlike most body types, h shapes can wear more angular clothing and patterns that include rectangles and vertical lines.
Inverted Triangle
The inverted triangle, or V-shape, is wider on top than on the bottom. This shape tends to have broader shoulders and/or a bust that is wider than the waist and hips, thus depicting an upside-down triangle. There is little to no waist definition, their hips seem to be narrow or straight compared to the bust, and their legs tend to be lean and long. Women with v shapes can look more athletic because of their broad shoulders. Renee Zellweger and the singer P!nk are examples of this shape.
The best clothing for this shape will balance the bottom half with the top half. Put emphasis on the waist with belts or gathered or pleated high-waisted, straight-leg pants or skirts. Tops should be fitted, with little detail, and a lower cut (ideally V-neck) to balance the bust with the waist. Low-density patterns and colors should be worn on the bottom half of the body. Angular and triangle shape accessories will highlight the natural lines of this body shape.
Hourglass
The biggest difference between hourglass and triangle shapes is that hourglass bodies are bustier or have wider shoulders: the bust is proportional to the hips with a defined waist. Not all hourglass types have a large bust, but the bust is always equal to the hips. Hourglasses have traditionally feminine curves. Scarlett Johannsen, Katy Perry, and Christina Hendricks are examples of the hourglass figure.
Clothes that bring attention to the waist are best for this body type. Feminine, A-line items like flare dresses and skirts, wrap dresses, or high-waisted pants work well. Fabrics that flow well over the curves work best so that the shape doesn’t get lost in the material. V-neck tops are ideal and belts should be worn to create more definition around the waist. Hourglass shapes should avoid baggy clothes and vertical stripes.
Triangle Shape
The triangle, pear, or A-shape body type is the opposite of the inverted triangle. This body type has narrow shoulders and/or a smaller bust compared to the hips. A-shapes tend to have a defined waist, which is why it is easy for them to be confused for an hourglass shape. Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé, and Christina Aguilera are examples of the A or triangle shape.
The best clothes for A-shapes are those that will balance the top half with the bottom half. Details, patterns, colors, and ruffles should be worn on the top. High necklines work well to balance the smaller bust in comparison to the hips. Bottoms should be fitted or drape over the hips. High-waisted bottoms work well for this body type, and detailed elements should be added to the smallest part of the waist. Rounder accessories or statement necklaces work well for this shape.
Round Shape
The round, apple, or O-shape is characterized by a larger top half of the body compared to the bottom half. An apple shape may have broader shoulders or a larger bust and carry more weight in their midsection. Generally, this body type has a higher waist, right under the bust, and leaner arms and legs. Women do not need to be overweight to fall into the O-shape category. Queen Latifah and Drew Barrymore are examples of the round body shape.
Note: pregnant women fall into this category.
O-shapes have versatility in their clothing options. Bringing attention to the limbs, particularly the legs with long, wide-leg pants is ideal. Skinny and flare pants can suit this body type as well. Wrap dresses, empire waist garments, and dresses/tops that gather under the bust will be the most flattering and waist-defining. Long tunics and blazers with softer fabric will help elongate the overall torso and fall nicely over the curves of the body. Accessories ideally are oval or round to create more harmony with the shape. Horizontal patterns and stripes should be avoided.
Accessories
Accessories can be a great way to add some personality and style to your outfit while still looking professional. Try pairing your outfit with low-key accessories such as pocket squares, ties, watches, cufflinks, and handbags. Don't forget about jewelry too! Layered necklaces can add an interesting touch while keeping you within traditional business attire guidelines.
How To Dress For Specific Types Of Events
For cocktail parties: Make sure your outfit is smart but also has hints of personal flair—think stylish blazers with subtle patterns paired with crisp white shirts and fitted trousers or skirts (for women). Finish off the look with elegant shoes such as leather oxfords or heels for women.
For dinners: The key here is to keep it sophisticated yet comfortable—try matching softer-colored trousers with a tailored vest and long-sleeve open-collar shirt. If it’s cold out, opt for an overcoat instead of a suit jacket to stay warm without compromising on style. Keep accessories minimal but stylish, such as a pair of leather loafers or heels or flats for women.
For casual meet-ups and happy hours: Keep things relaxed but still put together by opting for well-fitting jeans or slacks paired with button-down shirts that have interesting textures like linen or flannel fabric depending on the weather. For footwear, stick with leather shoes and remember that everyone you meet might still be a good professional contact so at the least casual, you should still be able to wear that outfit to a “casual Friday at the office”. Accessorize the look if desired; try bright patterned scarves or fun statement jewelry pieces that will make your outfit stand out from the crowd while still adhering to professional standards.
Make It Uniquely Yours
With Capitol Hill Clothiers’ custom-made suits and custom button-up shirts tailored just for you in Washington DC., you can attend networking events in style while expressing your personal sense of fashion and comfort - making it uniquely yours! Get started today by creating your own custom look that will make sure you stand out at any event and showcase your true self as you strive toward success!
