Recently, a well-known designer sold out a dress with a flower pattern on half of the dress and stripes on the other side. It was a shirt dress style designed to be worn in a business casual or party event setting. This major pattern style change shattered the mold of a small pattern with a stripe. This new trend has yet to make it to the next season. However, it fits with the current pattern explosion in dresses and men and women’s shirts. The one rule of the thumb is that the person should be wearing the clothing, not the clothing wearing the person.

Ruffles on blouses for women have been trending these last few years. This began with a simple ruffle at the hem of the sleeve around the wrist, eventually building to a three quarter sleeve. The most current rendition is layers of ruffles that end at the elbow of the sleeve. Unless the person wearing the blouse is very slender, this trend in blouses will add inches to the chest and in some cases, project a very costume-like look.

An essential piece for the complete wardrobe is a versatile black dress. Recently, a client called in a panic. She needed a black dress for a very serious occasion and has worked herself into a state of panic. We bought a black dress with a jacket about 15 years ago, but she never wore it. She took it out, tried it on (it still fit), and brought to the cleaners for their one-day service. She found her pearls, dark hose, and black shoes making her ready for the occasion the next day! She was relieved at rediscovering the perfect dress she already vetted rather than having to go through the stressful process of rush-buying a new dress.

Personal external and internal brand impacts need to connect with others and the environment. For example, you can sell the best tasting hot dogs but if the group you’re in is vegetarian not only will the offering not work, it might even be ridiculed. Showing up and projecting your best is just the foundation. You also need to create a splash in sounds, actions, and delivering what is valued to establish an effective brand impact.

Remember, you can be the best artist but if you are playing in an accounting environment, your artistry will be perceived as useless.

The challenge when beginning a new leadership role, is to build a new and not destroy the current structure. Yes, destroying seems to be the method these days because the old can appear stagnant. There is a better method of understanding the organization and its players that includes a deep study to determine the next step that will help the organization or team be effective. Creating havoc causes confusion and creates an uncomfortable view which in turns creates a backlash. The cure can be worse than the problem. If you are going to be a destroyer, be sure to have plan B in case the remains cannot be used to move forward.

Shopping on line can be a great time saver when you follow these guidelines:

• Always buy two sizes if in doubt, especially if you’re thinking about a new label or designer
• Know the different sizes outside of the US: UK and European
• Keep the colors simple and coordinate with the current colors in your wardrobe
• Buy with the whole outfit or be sure your wardrobe contains coordinating items
• Always know the return policy guidelines (free returns are a must)
• Shop only at stores that offer free shipping and returns
• Read reviews before purchasing

On a personal note, I followed the above guidelines when I purchased of Taryn Rose shoes. I kept the right size and returned the one that was too big.

A recent New York Time’s article covered the late Tom Wolfe, his choice of suits, and his white suit. The white suit, while not in fashion, set him apart from the crowd. This clothing reflected his internal and external style including his writings and larger than life personality. The clothing choices also distinguished Mr. Wolfe from a group of very successful writers.

Use a signature brand, whether with clothing, or as in the case of Anna W of Vogue, her famous haircut. The individuals above possessed the stuff to back up their signature style and long-term successes throughout several decades.

Positivity- one quality of great leadership

Positivity
Positive people attract folks who want to be on their team. These attributes create positivity:

• Exude an attitude supported by positive thoughts
• Choose clothing that helps form connections
• Put on pleasant facial expressions
• Extend cheerful greetings and always say hello
• Be curious about people and your surroundings

In a recent conversation with a colleague, we discussed whether formal education is necessary or if just being well read on the right actions to take in a difficult situation is enough. A reference to the movie, Caine Mutiny, ended up proving the point.

The film is based on The Caine Mutiny, the 1951 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel written by Herman Wouk. It depicts the events on board a fictitious World War II US Navy destroyer minesweeper and a subsequent court-martial for mutiny. The movie was a good example of the fact that doing what is right is always difficult but that does not mean that the most learned individual in the room always has the answer.

It appears there are two new neutrals on the rise to replace black. Navy is the newest new comer and gray stays strong every year. A new neutral takes hold in accessories, handbags, shoes, and jewelry.

The new navy is much darker, In some cases, it looks almost black with a blue cast. The neutral gray looks a little gentler. Gray is always a favorite because it has a lighter, more relaxed feel to it. Gray worn with red, yellow, and even orange boasts a freshness to it. My latest, new purchase is a new navy tote.