Image Projection : Put your Best Foot Forward

(This posting by Wayne Roy - C.Q.C. and I.P. Consultant)

In the field of Executive Protection, corporate clients and celebrities generally don't want to be seen with a bodyguard who is dressed in a way that looks cheap or weak. So investing in a quality wardrobe is an investment in your career.

When it comes to choosing a suitable work shoe or boot, there are a few subtle but important points to consider :

• firstly, you want a shoe that's comfortable, durable, and has good grip
• avoid trendy or casual looking shoes because they often have thin soles and aren't very well made... so stick with the respected classics
• a chisel or square toe looks strong because of the angular shape
• an extended stitched sole gives the shoe a strong foundation, which is important feature if the toe is rounded, because a round toe can sometimes look soft or weak
• if you prefer a rounded toe, strive to find a shoe that has either an extended sole, or a solid looking toe, or both (see photo below). 

 

Although most clients prefer a protection detail dressed in classic styling, if your client is a celebrity you might be a bit more adventurous and wear a shoe made from something exotic like python or ray-skin (photo below).

Summary of points :

• choose a shoe that's comfortable, durable, and has good grip
• avoid trendy or casual looking shoes... stick with the respected classics
• a chisel or square toe looks strong because of the angular shape
• an extended stitched sole gives the shoe a strong foundation
• if you prefer a rounded toe, strive to find a shoe that has an extended sole, or a solid looking toe, or both.

 

For female operatives, here's an example of a classic lace-up in leather and contrasting suede.