The credibility factor: to take full advantage of every opportunity in front of us, we need to look competent, confident, and trustworthy at all times – credibility quotient.

My excuse – “I want to be comfortable” “life is too short to be anything but WOW.”  We can dress in a way that is interesting, attractive, unique, approachable, comfortable, and affordable. 

First thing: the closet

It is far better to have a few pieces of clothing that look great on you than dozens of outfits that look mediocre.  It is much better to have a few outfits that make you look fabulous than a closet full of clothing that makes you look mediocre. 

• Give up clothes.  Items in bad repair; items I loved and had hung onto because it had looked great on me. but now it was worn and out of style. 
• All-important pre-production stage: get four boxes ready

o   Dry cleaning (is this item stained or even just a little; is this items dirty)

o   Altercations

o   For donation (is this item outdated; does this color makes me good;

o   Trash (is this item stained or even just a little;

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Intentional Dressing: Make your clothes work for you

• -          Can find an image consultant in my area: www.aici.org
• -          Choose the powerful outfit.  For corporate world:

o   Dark color: gives the most presence

o   Mid-tones creates a softer, more approachable look.

o   Jewelry/ shoes: simple and classic.  No sparkles, dangling earrings, or super-high heels

o   Skirted suits: equivalent of the mend’s business suit;

§  are simple shirts and jackets made from the same fabric.

§  Classic style, fits body perfectly. 

§  The suit should not be overly masculine, too trendy, nor too feminine.

§  Coupled with sheer skin-toned stockings, conservative, closed-toe shoe, a well-pressed blouse in a contrasting color, and understated jewelry – look capable, chic and smart. 

o   Dress: a solid-color dress coupled with a jacket creates an ensemble that rivals the skirted suit for power.

§  Dress should fall slight below, slightly above, or at the knee.

§  Wrap dress are fine for a more casual workplace as long as a non-lace camisole is worn to cover any cleavage.

o   Pantsuit: can be elegant and sophisticated.  Can be easily seen as practical rather than dynamic. More comfortable and less formal than skirted suit.

§  If want to look taller and thinner, consider wearing heels. 

§  Pay attention to the length of the jacket.  If no taller than 5’2”, avoid every long or very short jackets.  Dark colors or pinstripes paired with blouses in light, contrasting colors will give you the most credibility

§  Ideal blouse: collared shirt in white or cream – top button or two left unbuttoned. For day time, use fabric that is not shiny. The blouse should be tucked in and worn with a simple, elegant necklace hat shows you appreciate good quality.  The less formal knit shell should be worn un-tucked.  Pantsuits can also be worn with a shell, scarf, or turtleneck to achieve a less formal look.

o   Blouses and Shirts:

§  Collared shirts are the most formal

o   Separates: can be sporty or sophisticated

§  corduroy blazer and a turtleneck – sporty

§  add a string or pears or a silk scarf – sophisticated

§  artsy or less formal type: textures such as suede, velvets, knits or raw silk as jackets with interesting jewelry or other accessories for a touch of extra drama

o   Pants or trousers:

§  Flat front and fitted perfectly – give the most flattering look

§  Drape over the leg, hemmed for the pair of shoes they will be worn with.  The longer the better, but the hem should never touch the ground. 

o   Sweaters: mixed bag for women.  Look great if they are neither too baggy nor boxy, nor too right.  Wearing the right bra is critical to make you look good in a sweater.

• For more casual environment:

o   A tailored jacket with great fitting jeans to give the more professional look.  Add collared shirt – even more powerful message. 

o   Black top and a black jacket will create a very avant-garde, NY look – good for artsy environment.