Businesswear 2009

I have decided there is a big discrepancy between what is shown in the magazines as office appropriate clothing and what is really worn in the office. Unless you are in a high end finance, attorney, or some other elite office setting, I think the atmosphere is fairly casual. Magazines and prime time courtroom shows appeal to the sexy, feminine side of all of us with spike heels, pencil skirts, and patterned hosiery.

**This suit is by Theory and available at Bloomingdales.

But, I believe the workplace is filled with more frenzied moms whose priority is kids' lunches, get the dog outside to do his business, brush your teeth and out the door with no time to spare. I know there are the few that really do have it all together and do have time to concentrate on themselves in the mornings and that's what I'd love for everyone to have. I imagine you would feel much more empowered and capable of dealing with issues and co-workers if you felt powerful and capable.

f course, in my line of work, this plays directly to your image and style. And clothing is a huge part of that. So, how to accomplish looking your best at work? Let's just start with the basics (this will be a two-parter post; too long and I lose readers!) First, look at everything you wear to work and evaluate how it fits, what shape it is in, whether it is too casual or inappropriate. Then gather a needle and thread, lint roller, stain remover, shoe polish, and iron/steamer. Fix any loose threads, loose buttons, and falling hems, then iron or steam the garment. Work on tough stains and launder. If it doesn't come out, don't wear it. Remove pet hair and dust creases from hangers. The shoe polish will work wonders on scuffs and lengthen the life of the shoe. Don't forget the back and the heel.

Then use a critical eye and look at the way a piece fits. Are the pants sagging in the rear or pulling too tight; do blouses pull too tight across the bust; are pant hems dragging the floor; do your skirts or pants pull too tight across your stomach; do your blouses or tops rise to show your middle? All of these issues require fixing or ditching. Tomorrow, I'll discuss pieces to build a wardrobe with. But be prepared, it may require getting rid of some old favorites.

p.s. My blog is undergoing some changes, so please be patient with "construction messes!"