When networking at an industry event, it’s important that your choice of clothes presents a professional image — even when the invitation says “business casual.”

Men and women in financial services are expected to portray a sense of time-honoured values, such as trust, says Linda Allan, a Toronto-based certified management consultant who specializes in behaviours in business. You must present an image of confidence and success, even when dressing casually.

Here are a few tips to look sharp, even when causal, at your next industry event:

> Call the organizer
Avoid confusion over attire by contacting the event organizer directly.

Say you’re attending and ask them to specify the dress code, says Allan. They may say, “jacket and no tie” or “a golf shirt and chinos.”

> Dress “up,” not “down”
When in doubt, go a little dressier than the event requires.

If you arrive overdressed you can always tone it down if everyone is more casual, says Louise Fox, owner of the Etiquette Ladies and MannerTV.com in Toronto. For example, if you show up in a suit you can always take off your tie or your jacket. If, on the other hand, everyone is in suits and you arrive in a polo, you’ll stick out.

It’s more difficult for women, Fox says. You may be able to turn things down by removing a jewellery item or other accessory. It depends on the outfit and the circumstances. It’s still better to be overdressed than under.

“Seldom do people comment on the fact that you are a little overdressed unless you’re wearing an evening gown,” Fox says. “But they do comment on you if you look like a slob.”

> Avoid a lot of extras
Keep accessories to a minimum to prevent your drawing undue attention.

You should sport no more than 12 “items.” Items include buttons on your jacket, jewellery, watches and even your hair if it’s really over the top.

“Keep it conservative,” says Fox. “[Don’t wear] too many [accessories] because it’s distracting to people.”

> Don’t reveal too much
Women, make sure your attire is appropriate and the right length.

A top should be no lower than one hand under your collarbone, says Fox. Skirts should be no shorter than one hand above your knee.

> Don’t be casual about the fit
Make sure all your clothes fit —whether you’re wearing a business suit or cabana-wear.

When dressing “down” or casual, Allan says, many people pay less attention to the fit of their clothes and their overall appearance.

Ill-fitting clothes are never in style. Any outfit you wear should fit properly, look fresh and be crisply ironed.

IE