clothes make the man

Sadly yes, but only to an extent, so its not as bad. You can dress up a rude and obnoxious person only so much, before their true personality shines through. Put a slob in a suit, and he'll only give the perception of being something more respectable at a casual glance. Of course, when you think about it, a casual glance is all you need to trick people into thinking that you have the potential for upward mobility. With said upward mobility, you might get your foot in the door with a more respectable look but there is only so far you can go on looks alone. And those clothes might be nice, but the longer that people are around you, the more they start seeing right through the facade and seeing what you truly are. Clothes can only make the man for so long, and only really if people don't spare you more than a most casual and long distance glance. Of course some people are blinded longer than others and that is how scam artists tend to function well.

When we speak of success in the workplace, I am inclined to agree with this quote. One simple reason is that although top management looks at your performance, they also consider your attitude towards your work. Dressing inappropriately or too casual sends a wrong signal that you don't take your work seriously. Dressing up properly makes a better impression. And we have to accept the reality that impressions matter a lot at workplaces.

We humans are visual people, what we see has great importance in our lives. This said, only those at the very top in a company can get away with a shabby dress. All others must conform, for no other reason than to be different is judged by others as not fitting in. I am not saying this is right or fair, but it seems to be fact.

It's sad how superficial this society is, isn't it? I guess I can understand why someone's appearance would be important in the business world though - it's a very 'appearance-oriented' kind of world, the business world. I wouldn't know, but I would imagine. Of course I think anyone who works hard enough at becoming successful will eventually do so.

I think the two factors work to compliment each other. As you work your way "up the corporate ladder," you are afforded the ability to purchase nicer clothes, and you may be expected to attend events where you need to dress up. If you didn't already dress in a certain manner, you adapt to the need to dress appropriately. I think you can still maintain your own style, but it does seem to have an overall effect on the way you dress.

no i do not agree with the article the man makes the cloth not the cloth makes the man

The outward appearance in workplace can be a factor to how people perceive of how you bring yourself. It may not directly help you into achieving more faster but it could definitely make others think more of you. It is however a must for those in the higher position of the corporate ladder for their duties include meeting other important people and the impression they sell reflects the company they represent.