Ask an Expert - Featured on Sim Stylist

Tuesday, December 2nd 2008

Judi asked: "I am pregnant with my second child and tend to feel very self-conscious when in meetings with men. Should I dress the belly in pretty frocks or try hide it behind the suit. I run my own consulting company and image is important."


Christie Ressel of Personal Power Image Consulting answers: Questions on how to dress in the work place are very common because unless you seek the help of a professional, the guidelines aren't openly out on display. Lots of working women and men often feel confused and flustered on appropriateness for different situations. Your image is crucial to your credibility. Times are changing; technology is advancing and communicating is easier than ever. We are constantly stimulated by thousands of images a day that are pulling us in every direction. We have been trained to make snap decisions without much thought based on what does or does not visually appeal to us. This is why now, more than ever, it's so important to watch what we communicate about ourselves to others. People can and will decide in less than two minutes whether they trust your knowledge, professionalism and integrity based on how you dress and groom yourself. You want to demonstrate to those that you are interacting with that you understand their lifestyle and what is required in it.

Since you are a consultant and are in a more business environment, your dress should always be professional. Business dress codes unfortunately do not allow for many "feminine" details or "pretty frocks" so you will not want to dress your belly in that manner. Suits are looked at as more of a uniform, so the closer you can stick to dressing in the level that your profession requires, the better you will be received. Being appropriate for the situation will actually make you feel more confident because you will know you look good! The darker and colder your suit colour is, the more authority you will command. Women also need to watch their necklines in business; you want to make sure that the neckline either stay directly at the collar bone or goes no lower than 2 inches from it (depending on the level of formality your job requires). Beware of how much jewellery is used as well; your aim should be to keep everything in classic and simple. Have a trained professional help you with your image if you are unsure about what works best for your lifestyle, personality, body and colouring. Make sure you buy the best fit and quality you can afford. Don't have threads coming out of your clothing. While discount stores are great for prices, remember: you get what you pay for. Be classic or current with what you wear and coordinate with class. Ensure that your hair, glasses, and shoes are up to date. If you're not classic or current, it's assumed your job skills aren't either. And most importantly, SMILE be that charismatic and fabulous you!"

Warmest wishes,

Christie Ressel, CEO and Creative Director
Personal Power Image Consulting

 

*Toronto based Image Consulting