Ladies, if you want to be taken seriously at work it's important to look attractive and put-together, but not sexy or provocative. Here are 7 style rules that will create an attractive professional image:
Tip #1: Your skirt and dress length
The
style rule is to wear a length that is proportional to your height and
appropriate for the situation. The professional "power woman" rule is
for your skirt and dress length to hit just above your knee. The reason
is when you sit down, your skirt hikes up naturally, and you don't want
to cause a distraction. A tasteful maxi skirt is fine as long as your
top is more fitted and conservative; add a belt and a short jacket over
it to create a complete outfit.
Tip #2: Neckline cleavage
Where
would you like someone to look when he or she is speaking to you during
a business meeting? If the answer is "your eyes," then your neckline
should not reveal any cleavage. There is a way to determine the most
attractive neckline that balances your face -- it's called a
Balance Point.
Artists use balance points when painting portraits. Measure the
distance from the top of your hairline (if you wear bangs, your hairline
is where your bangs end) to your chin. Then take that length and
extend it from your chin down to your bodice. Wherever that measurement
falls on your bodice, that's the most attractive neckline opening for
you. If it's too low, and would show cleavage, then place a necklace at
that point.
Tip #3: Tight clothing
Most
people wear clothes that either too big or too small, thinking it makes
them look thinner. That's a myth. Squeezing into a sausage casing
will only make you look...well...you get the picture. Clothes should
skim your body and fall naturally. Clothes that are too tight actually
call attention to your body flaws, or worse,
create body flaws where you have none! Dressing in overly tight clothes sends the wrong signal at work.
Tip #4: Amount of skin showing
For
women, the more skin you show, the less influence you have. Do you
really want to work harder to earn the respect of your co-workers and
boss? A good rule of thumb is to divide your body into thirds:
one-third on top from shoulders to waist, one-third from waist to knees,
one-third from knees to feet. Show skin on one third only. If you
have a skirt that ends above the knee, then wear a conservative blouse
with long sleeves. If you're wearing a cowl-neck top (no cleavage!),
this calls for long pants.
If you wish to be seen as a professional, limit the amount of skin showing.
Tip #5: Color and fabric
Of
course, the best way to make a statement about who you are is to wear
colors that make you look radiant and energetic, and wear the highest
quality fabrics you can afford. It's better to own a few memorable
pieces than a closet full of forgettable ones.
Your best colors are determined by your natural skin coloring, eye and hair color, and even your personality.
I can do a virtual color consultation for you, determine your colors,
and provide a color card with your color palette. It's a great way to create a mix-and-match wardrobe that brings you confidence and joy!
Tip #6: Shoes
We
ladies love our shoes! Shoes make a statement. They complete our
outfit. Of course, close-toed shoes are the most professional style. A
trendy bootie, loafer, or gladiator shoe is the perfect accompaniment
for pants, dresses, or skirts. Sandals that reveal your toes are
becoming more acceptable especially in hot climates. Here are some
things to avoid: lack of pedicure, worn out shoes, too high (4" and
higher), too strappy (those are for date night), and flip flops are out.
Tip #7: Bare legs
The
good news is unless you work for a conservative office that
specifically calls for
them, pantyhose and stockings can be left in your drawer. Bare legs are
work appropriate. Fall and winter bring with it the opportunity to add
colored tights into the mix, which are a great way to get a
put-together look.
What do you think? What does the line between looking attractive and looking provocative mean to you in the workplace?
