The Product Hack

I’ve traveled internationally for the purpose of conferences and partner meetings. But this last time, the purpose was for sales meetings and it required formal business attire. I was really excited as I’ve been working to upgrade my entire wardrobe including the purchase of tailored suits. I was looking for the perfect excuse to get some new things.

Having traveled to Europe before I remember seeing everyone wearing suits – the suit is the mandatory everyday attire for European business culture – it’s just simply expected. Casual Fridays and Dockers are the sole creation of Silicon Valley and progressive US businesses. I was so jazzed…

I did a deep-dive in proper business attire. I mean the types of suits, venting, stitching, tailoring, the whole nine yards. I now consider myself very informed on suits. Want a peak lapel with no vents? That’s fine for Italy. Side vents with notch lapels and muted pinstripes? English all the way. But I never noticed just how they were worn. I had visions of meetings with Englishmen ensconced in the finest that Saville Row can create.

Like this?

or this?

Nope, more like this:

Well… so much for that. In Europe the suit is the uniform of business - regardless of look or quality: everyone wears a suit. And suits are purchased and worn with that same attitude. I never knew suits could wrinkle so much! Yeah, there are the suits that look incredible, but its the exception, not the rule.