Unlike most underdressed undergraduates, wearing business attire has become a part of Kumaran Rasappan's daily life.
BEFORE: Kumaran is usually in a dark coloured shirt and pants.
As a doctor-in-training, the fourth-year National University of Singapore medical student is required to dress smartly for his clinicals - sessions in which he shadows doctors on their ward rounds - at various hospitals.
When the 23-year-old had his set of business attire tailored in Bangkok, he chose shades like dark blue and maroon for his shirts.
'I chose dark colours because I felt lighter colours contrasted too sharply with my skin tone,' he says.
'I once tried yellow and it was so bright it made me look even darker.'
So Adeline Chu, assistant fashion designer of Crocodile International, set out to show him how to work lighter colours into his wardrobe.
'Dark colours will make him look darker,' she says.
'People with darker skin tones can try neutrals like grey or light brown or even pastel shades of pink, green and blue for a nice contrast.'
However, they should avoid shocking bright colours like crimson or orange as they may be over- powering, she adds.
AFTER: Don't be afraid to play with colours but choose the shades wisely. This hue - periwinkle blue - complemented his skin tone without being overpowering.
HE SAYS: It's a very different type of casual outfit. It's more dressy than what I would normally wear but still looks casual. I like this shade of blue on the polo tee - it's bright but not overpowering.
Striped polo tee, $79.90; long-sleeved cotton tee, $159.90; reversible bermudas, $99.90; peak cap, available from next month in Crocodile International's autumn/winter 2008 collection
AFTER: The varying shades of grey prevent the look from being too severe. It's a smart way to get used to wearing other colours besides black.
HE SAYS: This is a very stylish outfit for a semi-formal occasion and it's not as formal as a regular suit. I could wear this on a date.
Striped business shirt, $99.90; wool vest, $119; wool business pants, $109.90; silk tie, $39.90; leather belt, $99.90; shoes, model's own
AFTER: Here's a simple way to dress down a jacket: Roll up the sleeves after office hours and your outfit instantly becomes informal enough for a night out.
HE SAYS: I like this jacket because it matches many types of pants, including jeans.
