The modern mogul is a hybrid of wit and style. He is an embodiment of the union between aesthetics and intelligence. He not only has good business acumen, but also possesses an impeccable style. In the 21st century, an exec must know what happens on Broad Street, as well as the trends on Main Street. Believe it or not, your appearance can open doors in glass buildings.  Below are seven little infusions from Main Street that can catalyze an exec’s rise on Broad Street.

The Dark Suit

This is a must-have for every twenty-first century exec. It is the world-wide business regalia. No matter the continent you find yourself, this essential speaks volumes about your professionalism, character, sophistication and personality. A business suit should always be a dark color: Black, grey or dark blue. However, plain blacks should be avoided, because they are often trite. A plain grey or dark blue has a more contemporary feel to it. Blacks, greys or navy blues are always spot-on when they come in pinstripes. Always ensure your suit is the right fit. Oversize suits are simply not smart, and a suit that is too tightly fitted can erode an exec of his seriousness. If you have difficulties finding your right fit off the rack, please invest in a bespoke suit. It's worthwhile.

The Tailor-Fit White Shirt

Whenever in doubt about what color of shirt to wear for business, choose white. A white shirt matches any suit  or tie. And please ensure your white shirt is a tailor-fit one. Tailor-fit shirts lack all the excesses of regular-fit shirts, particularly the baggage by the sides of a regular-fit when tucked in. A white tailor-fit shirt is simple, stylish and yet sophisticated.

The Multi-Crested Tie (aka The Academic Club Tie/Scholarstic Club Tie)

In the world of business, you can’t afford to only be smart, you have to look smart. People make presumptions about others based on looks; even before interacting with them. That is, people see who you are before they hear who you are. And so, if you look like you have nothing valuable to say, you may never be granted audience. The multi-crested tie gives you that preppy look— the type that makes you look like a brainiac, whether you graduated summa cum laude or not. Now pulling the ivy-leaguer look is easy with this tie, but proving you really are a brainiac is up to you.

The Oxfords

Oxfords mean business... serious business. When it comes to business, always pick the lace-ups rather than the slip-ons or loafers. Consider this, the word loafer means an idler. Idlers (loafers) are certainly not busy folks, as such loafers are certainly not for business. Reserve the loafers for the evening unwinding and the weekends.  Leather oxfords in black, dark brown, tan or ox-blood are perfect for a working day.

The Time-Piece

In the corporate world time is money. And what you use to tell time matters. When picking a watch for business , please ensure it’s not a bulky one. A flat, light weight watch is always better. Please avoid the rubber strapped and electronic wristwatches. A metallic or leather strapped watch from a respected watchmaker would be a good choice. There are no hard and fast rules about the shape of your watch. That’s a matter of individual taste and function.

The Briefcase

Sling bags are the fad, but they can never replace briefcases. While sling bags give the appearance of a hustler, a briefcase can make you feel more like a peer in the boardroom. Briefcases have been and still are the premier luggage. From the days when execs moved mostly paper, up till today, when a lap-top might be an exec’s only cargo, briefcases have proven apt for the job of conveyance. So ditch the sling bags and clutch a well-crafted briefcase.

The Fountain Pen

Even in this digital age, execs are still autographing documents in ink. Hence, every exec should invest in a fountain pen. A fine writing tool can make an impression, particularly when you are on unfamiliar terrain. So seal the deal with a luxury tool.