Archives for September 2017

BY TRACI MCBRIDE

Q: If my budget determines only investing in one new look this season, how do I determine what it should be?

A: It is always best to invest in classics over trends and instead add an accessory that speaks of a trend you love.

I don’t suggest buying into a trend unless it fits certain criteria: It brings you joy, it flatters you, it’s in budget.

Women: An on-target perfectly tailored suit never goes out of style. Each piece mixes into many other business and polished casual looks.

Trusting you already have the basics this season, a men’s-inspired chalk-stripe suit paired with a rich, silky color punch with a bow blouse is an elegant look. Slip into an easy-to-wear trend with color-block pumps or suede-tassel pumps with a substantial stacked heel, no higher than 3 inches if wearing in a more traditional business setting. These pieces will give you more bang for your buck as each item works into endless other looks, business to evening to weekend.

Men: With a slower trend cycle than women’s fashion, two qualities dominate in modern suits. A perfectly tailored cut that empathizes and complements the male physique that women love. Tailored to broaden the shoulder and trim the waist in a single-breasted style. Now if you have the suit already, perhaps a velvet sport coat with the same tailoring mentioned above, but if that is too far out of your comfort zone than go for a sport coat with velvet peaked lapels and wear with confidence, you are the alpha male

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

BY TRACI MCBRIDE

Question: How do I dress to be taken seriously and to gain credibility while on a budget?

Two pieces of information are needed for guidance.

First, read the company dress code.  Every company needs to clarify their expectations to 
employees on how they are expected to communicate the brand of the company.

Next, know your industry. Every industry has a dress code. There are four established levels of business dress formality, and your industry, whatever it is, fits into one of them.

Traditional businesses, such as law and banking, call for the traditional business suit or a slight variation thereof.

Creative businesses, such as advertising and design, call for a creative twist to the traditional uniform, like unusual colors or fabrication.

People-oriented businesses, like teaching and real estate, call for less formal professional pieces that convey expertise yet are seen as approachable.

Physically demanding jobs, such as child care or fitness instruction, call for attire that’s comfortable, flexible, and easy to clean.

Regardless of your industry or budget, how your clothes fit your body, the colors you choose, and grooming will always be what others will use to determine your credibility, seriousness, and professionalism.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.