A trip to a department store cosmetic counter that offers
free makeovers is worth the time investment, and you might
leave with a few new products and some tips for creating
your new look at home.
Are you convinced that black is the best business
color for you?
You continue to buy black clothing, because it is supposedly
flattering and universal. It’s time to stop. You would never
market your programs or services as being “just like everyone
else’s,” so why pair up a solid or print top with yet another
pair of black pants or a skirt like everyone else? There is
a whole world of great neutrals to build your wardrobe
around, and black is rarely your best choice.
mix and match suits for a more current look.
Jackets are magic for a women’s figure. They can reconfigure
your proportions, and cover up problem areas. Investing in a
new jacket can update many skirts, pants, dresses and trousers that you already own.
In general, jackets are most flattering when they come
no lower than the middle of your rear at the highest rise.
A jacket that hits your rear at this optimal spot can actually
make it look much smaller because it cuts the area in half.
You’ll look like you lost 20 lbs. instantly!
What are some tips on tops?
Women, avoid showing too much skin and cover up your
cleavage. Even in casual attire, create a professional appearance and draw attention to your face. If your arms are still
attractive and firm, you can wear a sleeveless top, but a
partial sleeve conveys a more professional look.
What’s the skinny on pointed-toe shoes?
You don’t want to go hiking in pointed shoes, but if you
have a closet full of boring shoes, you should reconsider
your belief system. Pointed shoes make your leg look longer
and more slender, and the overall outfit will look more
current and interesting.
The trick is to find pointed-toe shoes that fit you comfortably. You are not expected to squish your toes into the
pointed V; instead, keep the ball of your foot and your
toes in the same spot they would be in
your boring, square-toed
pumps.
Strong, stylish
shoes are one of
the few areas left
for women over 50
to show confidence
and style. Put your
outfit together first,
and then choose the
shoes. Stand in front of
a full-length mirror and
look at yourself from
the front and side to see if your shoes give the desired effect
to your outfit. Be environmentally friendly by buying fewer
shoes, but wear what you have well.
Next, select jewelry to match the strength and style of
your shoes. Your shoes and accessories should complement
each another. A variety of accessories will add mileage to
your basic investment pieces (dresses and suits).
When you look great, you’ll feel great and more confident in your abilities to wow the audience, attract more clients, book more speaking engage- ments, and increase your revenue.
Janice Hurley-Trailor, The Perception Expert, is a keynote speaker, business consultant, executive coach, and a one-on-one image makeover consul- tant who shows clients how to create a compelling presence. For more information, visit www.
janicehurleytrailor.com or contact her at jhurley@thegrid.net.
