What a speaker looks like should never over-shadow what he or she has to say.  A speaker’s appearance, however, can help make the message more convincing.  Keep these points in mind as you prepare for a public appearance.

• Dress conservatively.
• Wear a dark suit with a solid color shirt or blouse (preferably light blue).  White tends to reflect light onto the face of the person wearing it.
• Socks for men should be knee length.  Hoisery for women should be seamless, with nude toe and heel.
• Do not wear flashy jewelry.
• Keep jacket or dress free of lapel buttons or pins.
• There should be no bulky items in pocket.
• For major appearances use powder, professionally applied.  A dusting of powder on your face will help avoid shine often caused by bright lights.  It will also mask any tendency men have toward “five o’clock shadow.”
• Do not wear light sensitive glasses or sunglasses.
• When seated, keep jacket buttoned but pulled straight to avoid wrinkles.
• Make sure collar and tie are straight, shirt tucked in, blouse neat.