In third and final installment of Getting Started (click here to read the first two articles), we will discuss accessorizing your business wardrobe. While we suggested a conservative approach to purchasing suits, accessories such as neckties and cufflinks can add a unique personal touch to your look.

Let’s start from the bottom and work our way up. When selecting shoes to complement your business suit, there are a few things to consider. First, do you prefer lace-up shoes or loafers? Lace-up shoes are a bit more conservative, so if in doubt, you may want to start with this type of shoe. Loafers are also perfectly acceptable; although we would suggest a sleek, lower cut shoe, rather than a pair of penny loafers. A question we are often asked pertains to acceptable shoe colors. Black shoes can be worn with just about every suit, however, contrary to what many people believe, this is not the only color choice for dress shoes. A pair of dark brown shoes also complements a navy or charcoal suit rather nicely.

As a general rule, socks should match your trousers. There are a variety of shades and patterns to choose from, although you can also never go wrong with black socks and black shoes. You can select from over-the-calf or mid-calf socks based on your preferences. Socks below mid-calf are out of the question. (“Showing a little leg” is not considered professional).

The color of your belt should match the color of your shoes. Again, there are a variety of patterns and buckle styles to choose from. Please note that a brown belt with black shoes does not work. The necktie has traditionally been a creative outlet for a man in his business dress. There are very few solid rules that apply to selecting neckties, although we can make a few suggestions. If you are wearing a solid white or blue dress shirt, you have a great deal of latitude when choosing neckwear. When selecting a necktie for a patterned shirt, try matching a large patterned necktie with a small patterned dress shirt (or vice versa). Stripes, small geometric patterns and paisleys are all popular this spring. We strongly recommend avoiding novelty neckties. People will just not take you seriously when you wear that Hula Girl tie.

While there are very few rules when buying neckties, there are virtually none when choosing cufflinks. If you prefer French cuff shirts, you can have a great deal of fun selecting a variety of cufflink styles and colors. Cufflinks are jewelry, a means of self-expression. Choose what you like.

Finally, allow us to make a pitch for the pocket square. Pocket squares are simple accessories that add a touch of elegance to your business wardrobe. When selecting pocket squares, choose a color that accentuates your necktie (but don’t buy matching ties and pocket squares). Since they are rather inexpensive, purchase several and tuck one in your suit pocket every day.

We hope that our series on selecting a business wardrobe has been helpful. Next week we will turn our attention to the topic of business casual. If you have any additional questions, please email us at PFadvisor@paulfredrick.com

Click here to view the Paul Fredrick Necktie Collection.