April 15, 2008
Five Ways To Pump Up Your Image, Part 2
For men, ties that sport cartoon characters or other whimsical designs can be fun for social situations, but they have no place when you are trying to send a message of competence and credibility. Lose the T-shirts with cute sayings, too! For women, stay away from such things as huge earrings, super high heels, neon or super bright colors, and wild, gaudy prints. The main message they send is "I want attention." While it’s not always necessary to wear a suit for business (especially in casual Colorado), looking professional and dressed for serious business will help your clients and customers have increased confidence in you.
Skirts that are very short-several inches above the middle of the knee-are not appropriate in business situations and you will not be taken as seriously as you would be in a skirt of appropriate length. Showing skin doesn’t send a message of authority. It says "I’m approachable" in a way that may not always be comfortable for you or others, so save the minis for evening and social wear.
For both men and women, clothing should also have ease-meaning two to three inches of extra fabric over the body. Horizontal lines in the fabric of a garment means that it’s too tight and is pulling. Fabric should flow over the body comfortably, but not so much that the garment looks too big or creates a sloppy effect.
