Colors have different hues and tones. Imagine the color pink. Pink is red with white added–more red or white will cause it to be darker or lighter. Pink with a drop of yellow can become peach. For individuals with olive skin tones, peach may be a color to avoid, as it can give a washed-out skin look. To test a color, put the color next to your face. If it adds color, the hue works; if it washes the color from the face, add more color to the face (make-up or lipstick) to make the color of the item work. Colors add pop and style. They can bring attention or vibrancy or can take away and make individuals look washed out and tired.

Leggings are making their way into the world of professional dress. Legging-style pants provide a very slim pant that does not hug the calf and falls easy around the ankle. Business casual leggings do slightly hug the calf. Dress leggings don’t have a seam running the length of the leg. Tight leggings are strictly for casual wear and workouts. Athletic leggings have several seams in order to withstand high stress workouts. Being aware of the different styles of leggings, and legging style pants, is critical to properly dress for casual, business casual, and professional situations.

Suit jackets for both men and women have been making a comeback the past few years. I love jackets because they add a finishing touch to an outfit. The men’s fashion industry has started making high-end separates. This means jackets and pants can be purchased separately. Being able to wear the jacket separately, but still use it as a suit with the matching pants, makes the purchase more economical. Suit jackets have a more structured design; casual blazers have a more relaxed fit.

Women’s wear has been introducing the jacket in many forms. They range from hip length to ¾ length (duster jackets). Sleeves now in most jackets are often ¾ lengths. Sleeves falling to the wrists are still a preference for a more professional presence. Jackets are easy to buy separately and versatile to wear with pants, skirts, or dresses. They can even be used as outerwear. Jackets can add polish. They are an important part of your wardrobe.

I have just become a fan of carrying a backpack. I prefer a slim backpack, not a large bulky one. For many years, I carried small bags, large bags, or purses and used a briefcase as a carry all. Using a backpack for everyday is a workable all-in-one solution. A backpack can easily be carried and many of them feature a small pocket in the front (with easy access) for a cell phone and keys. They are deep enough to house a portfolio. Some backpacks, like the Tumi travel backpack I carry, have white linings inside, making it easy to see and grab an item. Backpacks also can be carried on one shoulder and allow the freedom to use two hands. They also free up your hands if you like to carry another bag. Slim backpacks fit close to the body and do not hit someone’s face or body when you turn around. In short, when considering your next carry all for work, consider a backpack.

How does one get better at a skill? Is it meeting new people? Discovering how best to feel good about oneself? Or simply learning? Doing something new that brings a fresh element in view is the impetus for growth and change. I will always remember Wayne Dwyer’s talk about growing and expanding our circle. This can mean going to a new restaurant, trying something new at a favorite restaurant, or going to an event where no one knows you. This brings me to my first effort as a new golfer. At first, golfing with new people, especially good golfers, terrified me. Being brand new to golf, I dreaded playing in front of other people and I lacked confidence. For one year, I played at different golf courses where golfers didn’t know me. When I didn’t have the time to play on the course, the driving range became my best friend. Whether trying something new or strengthening a skill, finding a way to practice in a space where no one knows you can be helpful.

The fashion industry, along with major designers, have the consumer on a merry go round. Styles change as we speak. They are dictated even before the clothes are in the stores. When the clothes make it onto the rack, another change begins. Before chasing after what is new, pause, and wait. Contemporary clothing items are not always timeless. They can quickly look dated. One example is the cut of a jacket. The trend for men has become much slimmer and tighter around the shoulder; it almost looks too small on a man. The classic style is much fuller; however, it can look dated. Move toward the middle – such as a relaxed fit, especially in shirt styles. It is important to choose a trendy item or accessory. For men it might be a shirt. For women, it might be the print on an item. Check social media, and especially the business magazines, for professional ideas.

Wardrobe choices can define a person. The choices often display a level of positive attitude that says I belong and have a seat at the table. Clothing choices should somewhat mirror those around the table. However, they can also say a lot about your personal style. These individuals wear their clothing with confidence – especially when a word is not spoken. Their presence speaks. The fit of the shoulders, the sleeve length, the color choices, and the item selection show that the individual is not a carbon copy of someone else. Wardrobe choices can help an individual create a presence when they walk into the room. They are authentic.

Eyebrows are becoming significant. In 1995, while working for a major organization, I was asked to give individual sessions with their managers to offer quick tips to help them strengthen their presence. Nearly 90% of the advice had to do with their lack of eyebrow care. Their eyebrows were either too thick, too thin, or non-existent. Fast forward to today – and women have gotten the message due to the promotion of all the newest and latest hype over eyebrow products. So, what do your eyebrows say about you? In Stellan Skarsgard’s acceptance of his supporting actor Golden Globe for the film Chernobyl, Milos Forman, the filmmaker, said, “I have seen many of your films but never remember your face.” Skarsgard realized nobody could tell if he was angry or sad. Skarsgard had the make-up designer, Daniel Parker, make him a set of eyebrows for the film. So, what message are your eyebrows sending?

Toastmasters is an organization that can help improve speaking skills. They offer templates to craft many different types of presentations or messages to be delivered. One of them is how to deliver a thank you speech after winning an award. Acknowledging those who ensured success is important. An acceptance speech is not a forum to air grievances or promote matters that are unrelated to the award. Instead, adding a succinct anecdote about the journey on the path to success is meaningful and appropriate.

Jackets can have very different looks and send different messages depending on the fit, fabric, and color. Some jackets send a message of authority; others send a message of approachability. Softer fabrics, more relaxed fits, and a companion piece often make you look more approachable. When choosing a new jacket, here are some tips to take into consideration:
Dos:
A jacket must fit at the shoulders. The length on the sleeve should fall to the top of the palm of the hand. The length of the jacket should cover the widest part of one’s hip.
Don’ts:
Avoid jackets with zipper closures as they tend not to be flattering around the hips. Jackets that are too tight across the chest might also be too tight around the hips.