Every man needs at least one suit that exudes power, prestige and classic refinement. The power suit is a vital component of any man’s wardrobe regardless of his profession because it serves as his modern-day suit of armor. There are, however, several key elements to consider before transforming into a 21st-century gladiator.

The purpose of the power suit is to project unrelenting, untouchable power in the face of adversity without saying a word. The moment you require a power suit is not the same moment to show off your penchant for window-check, navy blue suits. Nor is it the moment to break out your collection of mock-neck shirts that all your golfing buddies swear you can wear under a suit to imitate the Hollywood-chic look. You will wear a tie because that is what men of power wear; and you will wear only the finest leather shoes you can afford.

A power suit demands to be in dark shades of blue, charcoal or a very dark brown with an exquisite silk tie in deep, rich tones. Black is always an option, but more appropriate for tuxedos and funerals. Herewith are three suit options to face the world with in 2007.

Power Suit 1

Suit: Brooks Brothers Fitzgerald
For the younger man the new Brooks Brothers Fitzgerald suit, which is fashioned after the suits worn by President Kennedy, is a good bet to gain the proper respect and attention of your colleagues and superiors. The lines are subtle and the cut projects youthful vigor. Black always looks good for this fitted look, but consider a more flexible charcoal gray that may be worn all year round and in a variety of professional environments.

Shoes: Cole Haan oxfords

Pair the Fitzgerald suit with black Cole Haan cap-toe oxford lace-ups and you have a timeless look perfect for year-round wear. The simplicity of these shoes cannot be denied. The subtle top stitching and medium vamp create a versatile dress shoe. Most importantly, the toe box is narrower than a traditional wingtip, but the curve is gentle and modern, befitting the updated styling of the Fitzgerald suit.

Accessories: Halliburton Briefcase
Carry only the documents you need in a slim attaché case sans buckles or shoulder straps such as the Zero in full-grain leather by Halliburton. The leather gives it a decidedly traditional edge, while the shape and size are functional.

power suit 2

Suit: Ralph Lauren’s wide stripe
The penultimate power suit today is the subtle peak lapel pinstripe offered by Ralph Lauren’s Purple Label. This suit with its wider lapel and luxuriously draping shoulders makes the clear statement that the man inside has confronted more than his share of difficult issues and risen to the occasion each time.

Shoes: Salvatore Ferragamo Fiorenzo lace-ups
The dark blue of this suit allows you to pair it with either black or dark brown leather shoes. While black is the fail-safe option, you really should display confidence and wear dark brown Salvatore Ferragamo lace-ups. These shoes, like the suit, are bold with their hand-stitched detailing on the toe, and they communicate that you are a man of erudite intellectual power.

Accessories: Montblanc Timewalker
An instantly classic timepiece like the Montblanc Timewalker watch is a given with this ensemble and adds to the sheer presence this suit conveys with its skeleton horns and interlocking bracelet.

power suit 3

Suit: Jack Victor three-button suit
The final option for 2007 is a brown, three-button, notch-lapel suit with double blue-chalk pinstripes by Jack Victor. A thick yet faint blue pinstripe is paralleled by a thin pinstripe of the same color that softens the usual harsh appearance of a pinstripe suit.

Shoes: Tod’s Esquire Ankle Boots
The unusual pinstripe of this Jack Victor suit allows you to leave your standard dress shoes at home and venture forth in a pair of brown leather ankle boots from Tod’s. With a simple profile and rubber sole, their presence under the suit’s cuffed pant leg projects a man of action and worldly taste.

Accessories: Omega Moon Phase
The real power in this Jack Victor suit is revealed when accented by an Omega Moon Phase watch. With a 42mm-case black face, leather strap and black rotating bezel, this Omega lets everyone know you’ve been in tougher situations than an afternoon meeting and is the only accoutrement you’ll ever need.

Suit up
The true power suit is worn by the man who makes things happen with a wink or a nod. This man does not manipulate, cajole or sell. He simply makes a decision and the world around him conforms to his vision. Your first decision for 2007 is which suit to wear into battle.

from askmen.com