Dressing For the Job You Want

Are you dressing for the job you want?Because if you are, you will start to see yourself in that job.And so will others.Here are a few tips on finding your signature style that brings out the best of who you are.

Take a good look at yourself in the mirror.Take a look around you at work.Is your dress Classic, Modern or Trendy?Do you even know?Lets take a quick look at each one.

Classic in its highest form is very tailored and timeless.It is most commonly seen in very conservative environments such as finance or law.It is safe but can also be frumpy or lack creativity.If you are in a traditional environment, consider classic as theme of your attire but consider a more creative accessory.Possibly a handbag, scarf or shoes.Just something to “notch it up.”If classic is appropriate for the workplace, make sure that your clothes are properly tailored and don’t look ten years out of style.

Modern is what I see most in my home of Northern California.Somewhere between Wall Street and Hollywood is “Modern”It is an updated suit or separates that have an interesting print or pattern.It can also be pants that are cut at the low waist instead of high hip.This style is especially appropriate for a creative workplace such as a design agency, an art gallery or even a real estate office in a trendy section of town.The one risk to being overly trendy is that you risk not being taken seriously.However, if you are too classic in a modern office, you risk being considered uncreative.When in doubt, look at the people who are in the job you want and follow their lead.And if you want to step out and test the water, try an accessory…one that can be taken off it the look does not fly!

Trendy is great for clubs but only in the rarest of circumstance is it appropriate for work.The one exception I can think of is the fashion or entertainment industry.Trendy is the “What’s Hot Now” look.It is great fun to wear out to clubs or for special occasions when appropriate.However, when trendy clothes are worn in the wrong context, the results can be disastrous.If you are lucky, people will just not take you seriously.What’s worse is that people may actually not trust you based on your dress.The career ladder is long and memorable….don’t pitch yourself off the rung just because you thought you’d be memorable.

The sad reality is that women are so much more readily judged for their appearance than men.We can get mad about it or just accept it and move….up!

Laura Beth DeHority blogs daily about personal style, fine living, health and wellness or other fabulous women on her website at www.glamourbylbd.com.