Dresscode

DW's best-dressed host Gerhard Elfers discusses fashion offences and sartorial disasters in the world of business and politics. In this episode he turns his attention to the disturbing length of President Trump's ties.

First job interview and nothing to wear? SUIT UP, recommends DWs Gerhard Elfers in his latest business column. But don't let mommy choose your style!

Bushy or smooth, that is the question. Beards are in with hipsters. But what about businessmen? Do they or don't they? DW’s Gerhard Elfers tackles the hairy issue. A master barber gives his blessing, but warns that some beards are barbaric.

Business leaders without ties? DW's best-dressed business presenter Gerhard Elfers is appalled. He says, 'A suit without a tie is like a frame without a picture.'

Colorful socks? Stripes, spots, checks? That's ok. But socks with motifs like Mickey Mouse and Batman, no way! That's what our Dresscode Expert Gerhard Elfers says about men's socks.

Shorts are great – on the beach. But in the office? Gentlemen, just keep your trousers on, however hot it gets! Style maven Gerhard Elfers is quite sure about that.

There's been plenty of debate over the NAFTA trade deal. But perhaps you're more interested in the 'North American Fine Tie Agreement'. Gerhard Elfers scrutinizes the sartorial sins of some of the people negotiating NAFTA.

DW style guru Gerhard Elfers recommends avoiding off-the-peg suits. His advice: Buy the good stuff cheaply when it’s on sale. But if that advice didn’t reach you in time, don’t despair! There are ways to make even a bad suit look better.

Man buns are fine on samurai, and ponytails are OK if you are an aged hippie or rocker. Business and arty types in Europe find them cool too – somehow creative and rebellious and bold all at once. DW’s style maven Gerhard Elfers would beg to differ.

If you're ever wondering why the boss can't remember your name, it may have to do with the way you dress. You have to stand out. So why not try a three-piece suit? They're not always super-conservative. It depends on the vest and the accessories.

At the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, delegates take a photo in local garb. After China’s Mao suit and Peru’s alpaca scarves, what sartorial delight will Papua New Guinea offer? DW's style guru Gerhard Elfers can’t wait to find out.

Nerds are known for worrying what to wear in the office. It’s actually pretty easy, provided you stick to a simple modular system. A select range of pieces that are guaranteed to combine well – promises DW host Gerhard Elfers.

DW’s very own style maven Gerhard Elfers has an important message: Don't give shoes for birthdays, Christmas or as a present in general! Too risky. They must be selected with utmost care, for shoes reflect our personality.

Does that look really work for you? Confidence in your own style can be hard to come by. And developing it is a process that never really stops. DW’s Gerhard Elfers explains who to turn to when you feel the need for a little advice.

Style icons are often renowned for their flamboyance and panache. Those are rare traits. Surprisingly, says Gerhard Elfers, the world’s most secretive man also...has it.

Buying suits off-the-peg is straightforward if you're an average size. But if your shoulders are uneven or your build is a bit burlier, things can get complicated. DW's Gerhard Elfers explains pitfalls when checking if a suit is right for you.

There’s plenty of room for optimizing when it comes to men’s fashion. Let’s start with accessories, and where the stylish gent keeps his laptop and lunchbox. Gerhard Elfers says there’s more to a manbag than a leather briefcase.

On Fridays, around the world, sartorial standards slip. From bank clerks to CEOs, grown men appear at workplaces dressed for the beach or a relaxed night out with the boys. They call it 'Casual Friday.' They think it's okay. Well, according to Gerhard Elfers, IT IS NOT!

Leaders on state visits often dress up in the traditional clothing of their host country. That can misfire, says DWs Gerhard Elfers, and cites the example of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's visit to India.

He might have lost faith in the prospect of ever becoming king, but Prince Charles will never lose faith in the double-breasted suit. DW's sultan of style Gerhard Elfers gives us his take on one of royalty's best-dressed men.

Suggestion for imperative shirt colors in men's wardrobe.

When the T-shirt CEO dons a suit, something has to be wrong. In this episode of DRESSCODE Gerhard Elfers shows why Mark Zuckerberg’s contrite appearance before US Congress was simply disrespectful.

A popular myth says that the metal rings on a trench coat belt are where you clip your hand grenades. Gerhard Elfers takes a sharp look at the overcoat originally worn by British military officers that’s now a wardrobe mainstay.

The awards season is upon us, and as always when it comes to style there are winners – and losers. Gerhard Elfers explains why a suit is so much more than a costume.

A wool suit that will last five years or more, handmade leather shoes. Our MADE presenter Gerhard Elfers wonders: how environmentally friendly is his wardrobe?

Trying to 'shake things up' with colleagues at the bar? It’s not a night out with your friends! We’ll show you how to navigate that business minefield!

Business Casual', 'Semi-formal', 'Lounge Suit'...what do all these style rules actually mean? We help you to navigate the dress code minefield.

Building a business wardrobe is a long-distance game. We’ll teach you how to play it and are going to tell you a secret. Hush-hush!

There are many unquestioned style commandments. If you follow all the rules all the time, you'll always be correctly dressed. But how boring is that?

You're suited and booted, but what about your time-check? Tick-tock goes the clock, as we go on the watch. What kind of watch goes with a suit? We’ll explain it.

One of the most venerable American investment banking houses has relaxed employee dress codes. We were shocked by the move at first – but then we saw a potential upside. You, too?

We have always been convinced that dressing properly changes how you think. Now a new study backs it up and we like to see ourselves confirmed!