Being powerful is like being a lady, if you tell people you are, you aren’t. Before you pull out your suitcase, and especially if you’ve never before been to your destination, do some research. Knowledge is power. You will be all that more confident if you know the vital local information.

Here is a quick guide to style in the global workplace.

India : pantsuits are much more acceptable for  women than skirts. A pant is a primary component of traditional women’s  salwar suits. Vibrant colors of any sort reign supreme.

China : Very conservative. Dark suits, skirts with a hem below the knee. and low-or no heeled shoes are the rule.

Russia: Wool suits, fur , and darker conservative colors prepare Russian women for icy climate.

France: Scarves at all times, tied in every possible way. Tailoring is perfection, always stylish, and sexy, sexy,sexy. Appropriately sexy , that is.

Germany: Neat and flawlessly groomed. Long fingernails are frowned upon. And absolutely no open-toed shoes.

Italy: Simple elegance and shoes, shoes, shoes.

Spain: Funky and avant-garde. Colors, patterns and textures are celebrated in every way.

Mexico: High heels and high style. Anything goes as long as it celebrates femininity.

Sweden: Laid back. Androgynous. Skirts and dresses are never required.

Now embark on your business travels with confidence, ready to take on the world. And don’t forget your cell phone charger- that ‘s an even bigger disaster than packing the wrong dress.

This Alexander McQueen pantsuit would tick many of the boxes mentioned . It can be layered easily to fit many different situations yet still maintaining its modern elegance.