1. Cool Biz: When should you start wearing it? What are the guidelines for a safe and secure look?
2. A tie makes you look 20% more trustworthy? How to maintain a neat look even in summer
3. Suspenders elevate your casual attire during the Cool Biz period
4. Which style of suspenders should I choose? What style is best for business?
5. Just "heat protection" is not enough! What are the conditions for a trustworthy outfit?
In business situations, even the slightest difference in attire can have a big impact on first impressions. Especially during the Cool Biz season, there is a risk that "light clothing = casual" will be perceived, making it a season where choosing your outfit becomes more difficult.
When attending important business meetings or visiting clients, many people worry about appearing sloppy or damaging their credibility. In such cases, the key to achieving both a cool and sincere impression is choosing the right accessories.
Items such as ties and suspenders in particular are great allies that allow you to achieve both functionality and business etiquette.
In this article,
- Basic rules and clothing etiquette for Cool Biz
- How to use suspenders to create a sense of trust
- Techniques for making a strong impression with summer ties
We will introduce in detail how to dress for Cool Biz while achieving both elegance and comfort, focusing on the above.
1. Cool Biz: When and what should you wear? What are the guidelines for success?
In fact, there is currently no uniform implementation period set by the government, and the implementation period and dress code are left to the discretion of each company.
However, the Ministry of the Environment headquarters (Tokyo) has designated the intensive implementation period as May 1st to September 30th, 2025. Furthermore, the Ministry of the Environment has not made any announcement regarding whether or not Cool Biz attire is acceptable since fiscal 2016.
How to choose clothes that don't make "light clothing" equal "casual"?
Each organization flexibly chooses "comfortable and easy-to-work-in clothing" depending on the temperature and working environment.
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No tie or jacket is the norm
A shirt style that keeps your neck cool and gives a clean look is recommended. Button-down shirts and no-iron shirts are popular. -
It's best to avoid T-shirts and jeans.
Although it depends on the atmosphere of the organization, as a matter of business etiquette, you should avoid dressing too casually. The basic rule is to dress casually as long as it does not compromise your sense of cleanliness and honesty. -
Make a difference with "showy accessories"
Ties, suspenders, belts, and watches can be used to create a neat and tidy look.
2. A tie makes you look 20% more trustworthy? How to maintain a neat look even in summer
Accessories that create a sense of neatness are essential for elevating your Cool Biz look. Among these, ties are one of the most symbolic items that visually convey a sense of trustworthiness.
Even during the Cool Biz period, it is safe to wear a tie for important business meetings, interviews, weddings, funerals, etc.
When choosing a tie, it's important to keep in mind the season and a clean look. Below are some tips on how to wear a tie in the summer.
| point | Commentary |
|---|---|
| material | Cool and breathable materials that can reduce discomfort in the summer: linen, cotton, silk knit |
| color | Examples of colors that blend well with the skin and give a natural, refreshing impression: light blue, pale pink, soft beige, etc. |
| Neck circumference | Small details can make or break a first impression, so wrinkles and blemishes are a no-no. |
STYLE = Recommended: [Set of 5] Washable Ties [30 Designs]
"Stay clean even in the heat. Be trustworthy." For those who want to do this.
This washable tie will help you maintain a neat and tidy look on hot summer days. Even in seasons when sweat and dirt are a concern, you can easily care for it at home, so you can always maintain a clean impression.
- Washable and clean, you can use it with confidence even in the sweaty summer
- A set of 5 allows you to create a different impression every day
- A reliable watch for a first impression that conveys trust
3. Suspenders add a touch of elegance to your casual attire during the Cool Biz period
Originally, suspenders were meant to be "not visible (hidden)," but in recent years, workplace dress codes have become more flexible, and it is now acceptable to wear them without a jacket. Even when coordinating with just a shirt, suspenders add an accent, creating a simple yet sophisticated look.
Below we have summarized the advantages and disadvantages of wearing suspenders in a business setting.
| item | merit | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | It does not constrict the abdomen, so it is comfortable and does not get stuffy even in summer. | It can take some time to get used to putting it on |
| Appearance and impression | Classic and elegant. It gives off a sense of trust and sincerity. | Improper use or flashy designs can make you stand out in a bad way |
| Posture and silhouette | Prevents pants from slipping and improves posture | Some people feel uncomfortable with just a shirt |
| Adaptation to TPO | It creates a neat look even without a jacket, helping to improve your first impression. | If you don't know the proper etiquette, it may give a negative impression. |
When chosen and worn correctly, suspenders can elevate your look from "light clothing needed because it's hot" to "a deliberately tailored look that exudes confidence."
4. Which style of suspenders should I choose? What style is best for business?
Comparison table of suspender types and features
| kinds | Features | Suitable styles and uses |
|---|---|---|
| H type | The back is made up of two straight pieces, without crossing in an "H" shape, for a stable structure. | Suitable for a wide range of occasions, from formal to casual |
| X type | This type crosses over the back and supports the pants at four points. It provides excellent support. | Suitable for a wide range of occasions, from formal to casual |
| Y type | It comes together at the back and fastens with three points. It gives a clean impression and complies with dress codes. | Suitable for a wide range of occasions, from formal to casual |
| Shoulder holster type | A holster style that hangs diagonally from the shoulder, accentuating the V-line and preventing it from falling off the shoulder. | Design-focused and perfect for cool business attire. |
Suspender etiquette
Suspenders are a great accessory that can elevate your business style, but if not used correctly, they can actually ruin the impression you make.
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Do not use with a belt
Suspenders and belts have the same function of supporting pants, so a waist belt is not necessary when wearing suspenders. -
Selecting a design that takes into account the time, place, and occasion
In business settings, suspenders in muted solid colors or dark tones are appropriate. Stripes and patterns can give the impression of being too casual depending on the workplace, so be careful. -
Adjust the position and length
If the suspenders are not the right length, they can make the lines of your back and chest look messy, so be sure to check the fit in a mirror.
STYLE = Recommended: [Made in Japan] Detective Suspenders | Holster
▶ A business style that makes people think, "That shirt makes you look honest and trustworthy"
The moment you take off your jacket during a meeting, you'll notice people looking at you. "That person looks so well-groomed." These holster-style suspenders will create that impression. The diagonal line from your shoulders naturally accentuates your V-line and gives you a slimmer figure. This will help you avoid stress during sweaty summer presentations and commutes.
- A V-line silhouette that creates a sense of trust
- Excellent comfort without constricting the abdomen
- An impression-manipulating item that makes you look "stylish" even when wearing just a shirt
5. Just "heat protection" is not enough! What are the conditions for a trustworthy outfit?
If you are too focused on staying cool and dressing too casually, it may damage your first impression and the sense of trust you create in a business setting. We are moving into an era where "creating ways to make things look neat" is required .
In such a situation, accessories such as suspenders and summer ties are a great way to combine functionality with impression management.
Every decision you make will affect your impression and your results. Now is the time to think about creating a business style that people will choose.
