The Love-Hate Relationship with Business Suits: A Personal Perspective

Throughout my career, I've found myself wearing business suits, loving them, then hating them, and back to loving them again. This cycle of feelings is quite unique and reflective of the changing dynamics in workplace attire over time.

Hate Them: The Restricted Confinement of Tradition

For some, business suits are a symbol of oppression, an utterly pointless and confining way to express professionalism. When I think back to the days when I had to wear suits every day, it brings to mind the heat, discomfort, and restrictive nature of these garments. They are a product of outdated traditions that do not reflect modern sensibilities.

My only solace in these days was that I had to wear them for important events, such as interviews, meetings with senior partners or government officials, weddings, and funerals. Even then, I always longed for the day when I could escape the confines of my tailored suit.

I Love Suits: The Comfort of Formal Wear

Contrary to my earlier feelings, I have a deep appreciation for suits. A well-fitted suit not only complements one's outfit but also makes me feel confident and capable. As a consultant, I often found myself wearing business suits 4-6 days a week, along with casual options like tweed or flannel. These suits fit into a variety of occasions where a dressed-up appearance is necessary.

However, the casual comfort of wearing slacks or jeans at home after a day of work is a luxury that suits can’t provide. During my consulting career, I often worked out of my home office, wearing comfy casual attire. The freedom and comfort of dressing down when at home are unmatched by the strict codes of business wear.

Transitioning to Formal and Informal Attire

Reflecting on my journey, I started my career by wearing business suits daily. There was a certain joy in dressing up and spending time with my clothes. However, as my career progressed and I began my own consulting firm, the shift to a more relaxed dress code was welcome. For 22 years, the informality of working from home was a relief.

Occasionally, I would still wear a suit or a navy blazer for client visits and felt comfortable doing so. When conducting a series of interviews, dressing up for 10 consecutive days became a norm. What made these days different were the visits to clients where I was primarily conducting fact-finding and presenting reports, as opposed to being on-site at the client location. The bulk of my work involved analytical work, report writing, and presentation design, which I did from home.

The Next Generation: Old-School Tastes

My perspective on formal wear is not just a personal journey; it also extends to the next generation. My 23-year-old son, for instance, is quite the opposite. He loves wearing suits and ties, even going so far as to sometimes wear a waistcoat. He enjoys these occasions, especially when his workplace allows for special events where he gets to don his formal attire. Interestingly, he has a preference for slacks over jeans, just like his father.

His taste in clothing has evolved over the years. Unlike when he was younger, he now prefers slacks and dress shirts over casual jeans and t-shirts. This shift is more than a fashion trend; it reflects a broader appreciation for elegant and classic styles. He is often seen in vintage-inspired looks, including fedoras, which he finds both stylish and comfortable.

We often describe him as having an 'old soul,' and his preference for suit and tie over casual clothes definitely runs in that direction. So, while I may have a mixed relationship with suits, my son's affection for them is growing stronger with each passing day.

Conclusion

My love-hate relationship with business suits has taught me a lot about the importance of clothing in our lives. While I may prefer the comfort of casual wear, there is undeniable charm in wearing a well-fitted suit. Understanding and appreciating this duality is key to navigating the evolving landscape of workplace attire.