Business Costumes in China

Business costumes form an important and integral part of social civilization. In China, people in larger cities, and those who have the means tend to dress in a more formal manner. As one walks down the streets in China, it is not surprising to find most of the men sporting at least a good shirt with collar and cuffs and formal dress pants.

Chinese women also take great pains to see to it that they look smart and well-dressed. Of course, this does not apply to the simple poor class women who simply cannot afford the luxury of good clothes, but as a rule of thumb, Chinese woman are very particular about their appearances.

Business costumes in China are conservative and modest. In a formal setting, the business costumes for men consist of dark colored, traditional suits. Women on the other hand are expected to wear business suits or dresses with a high neckline. For men, business costumes in China consist of shirts or jackets. For more formal situations, men are also expected to wear a tie. Tuxedoes are not considered a part of business costumes in China.

Women are expected to dress in conservative business suits or blouses with a high neckline. At times, business costumes in China for women also include long dresses. Flashy and loud colors must be avoided as they are not an acceptable part of business costumes in China. Rather, subdued, neutral colors are more suitable for formal settings. Short sleeve blouses or blouses that revel too much are not accepted as part of business costumes in China. Similarly, bare backs and low necklines are also frowned upon.

It is important to keep in mind that shorts or jeans are not at all acceptable for business meetings or in formal situations. Clothes that are revealing are considered as an offence to Chinese businessmen.

Jewellery forms another important part of business costumes in China. Jewellery should not be something very flashy or gaudy. Simple gold jewellery, with an equally simple watch goes a long way in making a good impression. Women also need to avoid wearing heavy make-up.

Due to the formal culture in China, women are expected to wear either flat shoes or shoes with very low heels. High heels are reserved only for formal evening parties.

Business costumes in China are formal and serious; hence it is important not to dress in a frivolous manner.

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