I remember how I use to dislike having to wear a name badge. Now, years later, the name tag has become a must in networking sessions because it helps me remember someone’s name.

However, at a recent event, while each of us wrote our names on the tags, probably 90% of the names were difficult to read!

When writing your name on a name badge, print your first name only (and maybe the first initial of your last name) using large letters. That’s because most name tags are not large enough to print your first and last name. You can always share your last name at the appropriate time.

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.

The charm of Facebook is that it helps folks express themselves and engage those with like minds. It can also provide some self-insight:

Dos

• Talk about only positive experiences

• Select profile photos that have a professional, casual, friendly look

• Post pictures that involve others only if you have permission to use them

Don’ts

• Never write anything off-color

• Never post any pictures that are risqué

• Never say anything negative about a product or person

You always want to present positive vibes because what you post has a long internet life. Following these few simple guidelines will help ensure that your Facebook posts will only enhance your image.

Often, when I am working with clients on their interviewing skills – it is their body language that negates their professional presence. The On-Line University staff writers have written a blog on this topic. It emphasizes how critical body language is in communications. It points out how perceptions are created: 82% with the eyes, 11%, ears, 7%, smell, taste and touch.

Go to http://www.onlineuniversities.com/body-language to view a graph and article that will give you tips on how to insure that those around you see you as a confident person and to comfirm that you mean what you say with your voice and body language.

Retailers are beginning to realize how important it is to offer alterations for women. Major stores like Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Saks understand this. Now, Talbots, Macy’s and Lord & Taylor have made it easier for women to get their sleeves and hems taken up or down. There is also a National Association of Tailors that can help you find a tailor in your area: http://www.ctda.com/find_a_tailor.htm.

I am always asked how much should be spent on alterations for items that need updating. The recommendation is that for one item, a maximum alterations amount is $50.00. Also, it should be an item you could not replace for 4 times the cost, in this case $200.00.

Recently, I took an older Dana Buchman jacket crafted in a beautiful blueberry color and fine wool material to my master tailor. She is going to take the cut down the shoulder. Typically, the shoulder is the last item I would encourage altering unless the price is right and you have a master tailor doing the work. Fit is so critical because it speaks loudly about your presence.

A great example of a traditional piece of clothing for men has been the pleated dress slacks with cuffs. However, the current fashion trend has shifted toward a very modern look with a slimmer leg and no pleats or cuffs.

The challenge for men today is that not everyone can wear these pants and not everyone should. A man will always look elegant if he wears what looks good on him. Wearing the right cut and fit will always appear elegant. Cary Grant always looked good because he shunned current fads and stayed with classic lines that flattered his body.

Today you see many folks on television wearing eyewear. They are usually wearing the latest fashion trend which is black eyewear frames. You can tell the frames that work well as well as the ones where you say to yourself – what are you thinking. The key element is that the frame must fit the face and not be too wide or deep.

Black eyewear can make a difference because it can cause the viewer to focus on your eyes. Remember, they must enhance your eyes, not hide them. If they do, your eyes will be an attention grabber.

The long sleeve collared shirt has become more of a statement today than when it was first introduced to wear under a jacket. Because business casual is trending into a more polished look, the shirt has become a stand-alone piece. So, it is important when choosing the right size, that the shoulder, chest and waist material gently hug the body.

Following are the typical size categories:

Full fit: Very generous in the chest and hip area

Slim fit: More form fitting in the chest and hip area

Athletic: Generous in the shoulders and slim in the body

Classic: Closer to the body

Husky: Full in shoulder and body

The sleeve and shirt length can always be altered. The shoulder and body gets tricky because the alterations can easily get out of balance. If that happens, the shirt will end up fitting poorly.

The holiday season has just begun and many retailers are hoping holiday neckties will sell through the roof. What makes a holiday tie a good one vs. one in bad taste? A solid holiday color or a small print of holiday items (Christmas holly or candy, etc.) on the tie will look elegant. Cartoon holiday ties that feature a reindeer laughing, Santa saying ho-ho-ho or a large picture of a snow man might be fun in the right business environment. However, it is risky and can be seen as showing poor taste.

Think small prints in Christmas red or green and your holiday elegance will be on full display!

Should women get a manicure and does there have to be color on the nails? Can I wear a vamp color on my nails? Your nails should always be chip, cuticle and hangnail free. A good buff for men is appropriate. Color for women should be neutral. The visual story you want your hands and nails to display is a fresh, clean and neat look that says I am healthy and youthful.