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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a departure from his usual military garb, suited up for his meeting with President Donald Trump on Monday.

Since the start of the Russian invasion, Zelenskyy switched out formal suits for military outfits, including cargo pants and crew-neck T-shirts. He previously said he would wear these clothes until the war ended.

The Ukrainian president’s last outfit at a White House meeting — a long-sleeved black shirt with a mandarin collar in February — wasn’t well received by some Republicans.

But on Monday, he arrived at the White House in an all-black suit — no tie — for his meeting with Trump and European leaders.

Trump was quick to comment on the new look. When a right-wing journalist who previously criticized Zelenskyy told the leader that he looked “fabulous” in the suit, Trump added, “I said the same thing.”

Whether in politics or the corporate world, showing up in the right outfit can make or break how a message is received.

Fashion and image consultants told Business Insider that Zelenskyy’s choice to suit up underscored that when the stakes are high, dressing formally can earn credibility and keep the focus where it belongs.

The black suit was a calculated choice

Zoë Hennessey, a Los Angeles-based fashion stylist, said Zelenskyy’s upgraded look headed off criticism that might have overshadowed the purpose of his visit.

“Trump and his aides clearly noticed the change, since they commented on it, and I imagine it helped Zelenskyy gain some favor,” she said.

“Sometimes you have to give people what they expect, even if it feels like a compromise,” Hennessey said.

Ann Vodicka, a Sydney-based image consultant, said that a suit broadcasts power. And black communicates strength, sophistication, and seriousness.

“Zelensky’s attire reinforced his message: He is to be taken seriously, and the meeting’s importance cannot be overstated,” Vodicka added.

Dress to impress, not to stand out

Hennessy said standing out and showing personality make sense in industries like fashion, entertainment, and the arts. However, most corporate environments still favor understated dressing, she said.

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“You can still look interesting and show a point of view, but it is usually better to stick to traditional dress conventions.”

Vodicka said workers have to balance blending in and standing out.

“Dressing to blend in too much can make you appear forgettable, while dressing to stand out too much risks being seen as unprofessional or distracting,” she said.

She said a sweet spot is to express individuality through subtle details like a modern cut, a well-chosen accessory, or a color that suits you.

What to wear for important meetings

Vodicka said that in high-stakes meetings or interviews, how you dress has a powerful impact on how you feel and are perceived.

She recommends trying to “match or slightly elevate the dress code.”

“Being underdressed can leave you feeling self-conscious and can distract others from your message,” Vodicka said.

She also advised prioritizing quality over quantity by investing in fewer high-quality pieces instead of many ill-fitting ones.

Hennessy said dressing to impress was simple. Wear clothes that fit properly — nothing too tight or skimpy. The outfit should also be spotless and well-pressed, she said.

She recommended wearing neutrals, which look polished and professional.

“I would avoid dramatic prints and bright colors. It may feel a bit boring, but in certain situations, playing it safe often works best,” she said.