While clothes don't really make the woman, they do help create the appearance of confidence, competence and professionalism. By the way you dress, you may be keeping yourself from being considered for an upper level job. Because of your capabilities, your boss may well see you as a worker bee and be content to keep you in that position. If you are dressing more funky than stylish, then you may well be the one keeping you from promotions that you deserve. It isn't fair but it is the way it is.
Dressing in skimpy tops or skirts with large amounts of flashy jewelry hanging from ears, throat and wrist while wearing gaudy makeup may be imply that you are dressed for a profession wholly different that the one you're in.
Unflattering hair styles and colors as well as outdated clothes that do not fit properly are eye-catching. For that very reason, the boss may well prefer that you stay in your back office where you will not be seen by current or prospective clients. Look at your body type and size. Then, look at professionals in positions that you would like to have. What basic colors are they wearing? How are their hands manicured? How is their hair styled? What kinds of shoes and accessories are they wearing? How are professionals your age dressing? Get the picture? You can still express your individual style as long as you don't go overboard, wear clothing that fits properly and is trendy but tasteful.
According to experts on dressing for success, jewelry considered evening wear is not appropriate for the office. You can wear an accent piece but the other jewelry should be more simple and complementary. For example, your diamond necklace should not be worn with your diamond chandelier earrings. Neither should you be loaded down with necklaces like Mr. T. You can wear several chain necklaces as long as they are not fighting with each other for attention. A touch of gold or silver can add interest to a suit top in the form of a pin. Suit tops with patterns should be carefully chosen. A solid scarf in a contrasting color tastefully tied around the neck can add a pop of color to a patterned top. Bracelets should be simple and elegant. They can be distracting if they are too loud in color or movement.
Dress boots can add drama to an ankle length skirt or slacks. High heeled shoes should be limited to two inches and the pointy-toes shoes may work with slacks and nothing else for work. If you are wearing a monochromatic colored suit, you can use the color of your shoes as the bright accessory of the day. For example, red shoes could be worn with a black or navy suit. Shoes should be black, brown, navy blue, and gray not unlike the colors preferred for suits. You may wish to wear a scarf tucked into the top of a camisole worn under a suit jacket. As for the cleavage, less is best. You do not have to spend a fortune to dress appropriately for your job. Have a few good pieces that you can mix and match. Watch for sales and you can find some great buys in consignment shops. Find pieces that fit you and compliment your shape and personal style.
If you follow these suggestions, you may be showing more business sense than you thought.
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