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by (c) 2002 By Lydia Ramsey
Remember the days when women were beginning to assume their
new roles in the business arena, and they felt that it was important
to mirror the dress of professional men? They came to work in
those severely tailored business suits and something that resembled
a man's tie. Happily, those days are gone for good. Women in
business have the freedom to dress in feminine styles that reflect
their profession and the attitude of their company. It's what I call
situational dressing. There is no one appropriate business attire
for all women.
Women have a lot more choices than men about what they wear
and how they accessorize it. This is good news and bad news.
It's good because women have greater opportunity to express
their individuality. It's bad because they have more room for
error.
Regardless of whether your workplace is conservative and
traditional or decidedly avant-garde, there are definite rules
that apply to attire.
Understatement is the hallmark of good dressing. After all,
it is who you are in business, not what you wear. Being noted
for your flashy appearance is not the way to make your mark.
Dress everyday for any situation that comes your way.
You represent your company to everyone on the outside.
If you have to apologize to your client for the way you are
dressed on Casual Friday, reconsider what you wear.
Avoid revealing clothes. Anything that is too low, too tight,
too short or too sheer has no place the office. Whether
intentional or not, these clothes send the wrong message.
Dress for the time of day. Even if you are going to a
business/social event after work or a social event during
the day, keep your image professional. Many women make
the mistake of wearing after five between nine and five.
Make your fashion statements after work and on the weekends.
Unless you are in the fashion business, keep your clothes
timeless and tailored. Fashion designers do not have the
office in mind when they are creating the latest trend.
As always, there is a time and a place for everything.
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