1. Do you find that you have things in your closet that you have not worn because you don’t have anything to wear with them? Never purchase anything unless you have three clothing items in the closet to go with it or buy at least two items to wear that work with the garment.

2. Purchase items in three colors only. Most folks have black pants or skirts so the key to purchase shirts, jackets, sweaters in three colors in addition to black.

3. Last, but not least, only purchase items that fit in the shoulders, chest and jacket/sweater length. It is easy to shorten sleeves but tailoring in these other areas can be very expensive and tough to pull off properly.

In all fabrics, from knits to denim, leggings are back. Wearing them smartly depends on your complete look. (No matter what, do not wear leggings at work.)

From the top of your garments down to the shoes or boots you wear, leggings cannot look like exercise or yoga clothing. They have to complement the rest of the clothing to form a complete outfit.

The number one offense with leggings is wearing them with thin tops that barely cover your hips. The second one is wearing thin leggings that are so tight they look like a second skin.

Often, we think honesty is a good thing. However, it is only good if it leads to a solution to the issue. Many times we want situations to improve but we can’t quite pinpoint why. Honesty can be effective if you follow these guidelines:

– The opinion is based on facts not emotions

– Is this fact a new one? If it has been discussed before – what is the purpose of sharing it again?

– If it is a retread issue – do you have a solution this time around?

To help hold these and other types of serious discussions, I highly recommend the book: Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High, Second Edition, Patterson and McMillan.

It seems global warming has created inconsistent weather – either too hot or cold. Here are some clothing tips so you’re prepared for any type of weather as you’re celebrating the nuptials.

For women:

The designer, Citron, offers a light flowing blouse as well as many wonderful silk prints in tops and dresses. They can be worn with linen or silk pants or skirts. I definitely recommend flat sandals as the shoes of choice.

For men:

The trend continues with linen or silk short sleeve shirts worn un-tucked. Solid colors, such as a dark navy worn with cream pants and sandals, have a more elegant feel. Shorts are not recommended unless it is a very casual wedding.

You will look elegant and always still be temperature ready wearing these recommended clothing items.

I have been a long time Trekkie. The recent movie, Star Trek into Darkness, continues the trend of communication differences and why the relationship between Kirk and Spock has its challenges. In this movie, we see their relationship hit a pothole. However, a threat brings them together as they eventually recognize their differences and acknowledge each other’s strengths.

Spock’s behavioral and communication styles are that of a Thinker. Logical thought processes are important to him. Kirk is a combination of Socializer and Director. He cannot always explain his reasoning because he relies heavily on his instincts. He is highly impulsive but gets the job done.

I continue to be fascinated by their interactions. The lesson in the latest film is to honor each communication style by recognizing its value. If you can do this when working with others, you will experience more successful outcomes.

If you have not seen this movie or the first one, Star Trek by JJ Abrams, you might consider renting it. You will be entertained and at the same time be able to observe different communications styles in action. Who knows, it might help you when similar situations arise in the workplace.

I have always believed that nails look more professional with color polish. However, nails can be made to look worse even with nail polish, if the cuticles are unattractive.

My nails have always been a challenge because I have very dry and unattractive cuticles that are continually aggravated by nail polish. So, I have gone cold turkey and started getting manicures without nail color.

That being said, your hands and nails must look well taken care of. They must enhance your overall professional impact. This also means that you probably need to stay away from distracting polish colors and designs.

Remember, though, that if you go decide to go without nail polish entirely, you must stay vigilant in keeping your nails clean because polish hides the dirt that accumulates underneath them.

Cheryl Burton, ABC Chicago evening news anchor, wore an aqua blue multi-shaped bib necklace with a sleeveless scooped neckline coral dress. She looked stunning. The scooped neckline gave the necklace space to be featured. Cheryl also chose a complementary color so the necklace was balanced with the coral dress. If she had chosen to wear a black dress the necklace might not have looked as stylish.

If you choose the appropriate neckline and color to balance a bib necklace, you will wear the necklace; the necklace will not wear you.

It appears that beards are starting to gain in popularity again including being more acceptable in the business world. This is probably partly because some key CEO’s are sporting them.

The key for a beard to look sharp is to keep it maintained and worn close to the face. Beards look best as a neat face cover as opposed to allowing them to grow beyond the chin and down the neck. Scraggly beards will make the person look old and unkempt.

Enough of the stiletto heels. Even Jessica Sarah Parker of Sex in the City has a foot problem due to wearing them. In fact, that’s the reason for the recent popularity of the two inch stacked heel—because women are realizing the three to four- inch pumps can cause major foot and ankle problems.

Over time, wearing high heels can shorten calf as well as back muscles, leading to pain and spasms.

“Any time you wear shoes that restrict the natural shape of your foot, you’re at risk for experiencing pain,” noted physician, Dr. Nevins, points out. According to him, many women who wear high heels often also suffer a shortening of the Achilles tendon because once the heel is pointed upwards, it tightens up. Stretching it again or switching to flats can be very painful and even lead to plantar fasciitis.

Wearing the two-inch stacked heel will save your back and feet. Now, with Tory Busch and other notable shoe designers re-introducing them, you have a chance to be stylish too.

When Samantha takes a walk, she always starts full of the potential excitement of her adventure. Her head is held high and her gaze is straight ahead, eyes shining with great anticipation about what she might see. For those of you who know, Samantha is my bison (you can see her picture on the far upper right corner).

Wouldn’t it be great if each time you walked into a room, you had the good anticipatory feeling of exploring something new? It projects in your body, facial expressions and even your walk. It is the aura of confidence and creates a wonderful first impression.