Here’s a question from one of my readers: “I just got a new job and I have to wear ‘Business Attire’. How am I supposed to wear a suit everyday without looking like a boy?

I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but Professional Women are kind of a big deal…

You SO do not have to wear boxy suits in navy or gray to look professional. There are plenty of professional-looking feminine suits and separates out there that will work for you, Business Barbie made sure of that!

First, find your self at least one or two good suit(s), a 3-piece suit would be great (comes with pants, skirt, and jacket). It should be “no frills” and pretty basic. Solid black, brown, or pinstriped, and the perfect fit for you…get it tailored if necessary. This will be your go-to suit. Women’s suits should have a defined waistline. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT buy a suit with a men’s-style jacket… that is SO 1985. This can get you through your first few days until you can get a feeling of how formal your office will be. You may be able to get away without wearing an actual suit everyday. A blouse or sweater with dress pants may be perfectly acceptable.

Once you have your staple suit, look for separates that can be mixed and matched. Wide leg dress pants, pencil skirts, and fitted jackets will be your best finds. They provide the most “put-together”, yet stylish look. Keep your own personal style in mind when looking for items. I’m a girly-girl, so I would be looking for blouses with ruffles, lace, and/or floral accents to go under my jackets. If you have to wear structured suits, you should wear them with bold jewel tones or ethereal blouses. The contrast between structured and ultra feminine will add interest. Another way to stylize boring suits is to use accessories. Brightly colored shoes or bold jewelry will express your funky side.

Here are some Dos and Don’ts of office attire:

DO: Look for feminine pieces, such a ruffles, appliqués, and skirts

DON’T: Wear ultra-short skirts circa Heather Locklear in Melrose Place

DO: Wear clothes that are fitted

DON'T: Wear clothes that are too tight or revealing, they hired you for your skills, not your tatas (hopefully)

DO: Accessorize

DON’T: Wear crazy spiked wrist cuffs, bottle cap necklaces, or other over-the-top accessories. While you should express yourself, you have to remember that you need to project a professional image as well.

DO: Wear Heels, they are the best way to make you look and feel like a lady

DON’T: Wear shoes you can’t walk in, it will make you look like you’re “playing dress up”

DO: Spend time getting ready in the morning; you don’t want to look like you just rolled out of bed

DON’T: Spend so much time primping that you’re late for work. (I’m so guilty of this!)

DO: Get out there and kick some professional butt!

DON’T: Worry, you’ll be fine!

Send your beauty questions to [email protected] and I’ll answer them in my next blog.

Thanks,

Bethany