Is it okay to wear a short-sleeved dress shirt?

Generally, no. In most professional Asian settings, short sleeves are seen as too casual. Stick to long sleeves, and roll them up only if the environment is strictly informal and your host does so first.

What colors should I wear?

Stick to conservative colors: navy, charcoal, black, or deep earth tones. Avoid bright colors or flashy patterns, which can be seen as distracting or unprofessional in a corporate context.

Dressing for Business Meetings in Asia

Prioritize a conservative, high-quality suit in navy, charcoal, or black, regardless of the heat. Aim for a 'formal-first' approach, as it is always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed in Asian business settings.

Select the right base layer. Wear a long-sleeved dress shirt or blouse made of high-quality, breathable cotton or linen-blend. Ensure it is opaque and professional. Always keep the top button closed or wear a tie in formal sectors like banking or law.
Prioritize the suit jacket. The jacket is non-negotiable for the initial meeting. Choose a lightweight wool blend that resists wrinkling during travel. Keep it on until your host explicitly removes theirs or suggests you do the same.
Mind the footwear. Wear closed-toe, polished leather shoes. Because you will likely be taking your shoes off when entering meeting rooms or traditional offices, ensure your socks or hosiery are clean, hole-free, and neutral in color.
Manage the climate. Office buildings in Asia blast the air conditioning regardless of the external tropical heat. Carry a light cardigan or an extra blazer layer to stay comfortable during hour-long meetings.

Is it okay to wear a short-sleeved dress shirt?: Generally, no. In most professional Asian settings, short sleeves are seen as too casual. Stick to long sleeves, and roll them up only if the environment is strictly informal and your host does so first.
What colors should I wear?: Stick to conservative colors: navy, charcoal, black, or deep earth tones. Avoid bright colors or flashy patterns, which can be seen as distracting or unprofessional in a corporate context.