Time to BREAK UP with your suit!

Tell a woman she has to dress professionally and there is a lot of baring of the teeth and hand wringing that ensues.  Many women hear the words “business suit” and they get the shivers!

They immediately conjure up images of women running around corporate buildings wearing all-black suits with the ubiquitous white shirt while the words “stuffy”, “stodgy” and “boring” " no personality" float around in their head.  I mean, REALLY folks this not the dark ages!

The good news is most women have no need to wear a traditional matched two-piece suit. 

So if I’m breaking up with my suit, what constitutes an outfit that can still be called “professional”?
The modern take on a professional look can vary depending on your business type.  But for a polished look that is appropriate for every business setting, I would still recommend wearing a jacket.  This is especially true for a first interview, client meeting, certain networking events or whenever you’re not sure who is going to be present that you want to leave with a good impression. You only get one chance to make a good first impression!  Soft cardigans are nice and definitely have their place in your wardrobe, but they are not going to command the same authority as a structured jacket and say I am here and I am serious!

Pair your jacket with a trouser, or well made dark denim, in a complementary color, like a navy jacket with a tan pant, or a gray jacket with a black pant. REMEMBER, white is a year round color now as well. That pairing of complementary instead of matchy-matchy colors is what’s going to give your outfit an updated feel. Show off your identity and personality.  A skirt is a nice option as well, either an a-line or pencil shape is an easy pairing with a jacket.  Just be sure your skirt hits a few inches above your knee; any higher and it’s just not professional…I don’t care what they’re wearing on The Real Housewives of Anywhere!

Of course you can reach for that white collared shirt and it will always look professional, but for something that will leave a lasting (in a good way!) impression try a blouse in a v-neck or scoop neck style in a favorite color.  That navy jacket and tan pant combo would look fantastic with a soft lilac, pink, fuchsia or soft red top. And of course black, white and red is always a winner!  Feeling a little more creative?  Try a blouse that ties at the neck or some other embellishment like a simple ruffle front or look for a jacket that has playful details like 3/4 sleeves with unusual details.

And as always ACCESSORIZE!

Just keep in mind,  your professional look needs to help you create a good first impression, it’s best to choose on the side of being a tad conservative both in the colors you choose, the styling of your pieces and the accessories you wear.  Once you’ve slammed dunked  the job or landed the contract, gotten that new client, etc.. you can let that inner diva out a bit more, show a little more creativity and really let your personality shine through! PROFESSIONAL can still be fun!

Professional doesn't mean don't be yourself!

p.s.  A helpful hint : mix and match some of those suit pieces with other items in your wardrobe..you will be amazed at what you can come up with!