The Style Expert

Jacqueline Whitmore’s new book, Poised for Success: Mastering the Four Qualities That Distinguish Outstanding Professionals, is a thought-provoking, enlightening and heartfelt book which highlights the significance of business etiquette, while emphasizing  the importance of becoming invaluable at work. It is a practical book on how to attain success in today’s competitive business environments and in your personal life.

The theme:  To become invaluable at work, you must be poised for success. You must cultivate what Jacqueline calls the four “P” qualities: Presence, Polish, Professionalism and Passion. This book effectively  written with eloquence,  honesty and humor, shares with you  the necessity of  social graces, integrity, and relationship-building in all areas of your life.   Whitmore, using her  fifteen years of experience as a protocol and etiquette expert, generously furnishes you with the skills to become more self-aware, more confident and comfortable in your own skin, and better able to communicate with others in a credible, authentic manner.

P. M. Forni, professor at John Hopkins University and author of the bestselling book, Choosing Civility, best describes this inspiring book by stating, “Trust this book, live this book, treasure this book.”

Poised for Success is a powerful road-map to living your life with passion while gaining emotional prosperity.  A great gift idea for those on your holiday list who aspire to take their career to the next level.

Poised for Success is available now. Order your copy:

http://www.amazon.com/Poised-Success-Distinguish-Outstanding-Professionals/dp/0312600321/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1315859594&sr=8-1

written by admin \\ tags: Book Review, business dress, Business etiquette, Business Holiday Gifts, civility, emotional prosperity, etiquette, Gracious Living, Jacqueline Whitmore, manners, Poised for Success, Relationship Building

The way you dress sends messages and affects how others view you. Women are often judged by the way they dress and present themselves at work.  Many professional women are guilty of several fashion mistakes when it comes to getting dressed for the office.  Often their lack of judgment can lead to being passed over for a job or promotion.

7 Mistakes to Avoid:

1.  Too Much Cleavage

Revealing too much cleavage at work is one of the biggest mistakes women make. This can be inappropriate, distracting, and often sends the wrong message.

“Dressing too sexy can also have psychological effects on your peers,” according to Peter Glick, a professor of psychology at Lawrence University in Wisconsin.  A study by Glick  published in Psychology of Women Quarterly, indicates that women in high-level positions who dress in what is seen as sexy attire are viewed as less competent–regardless of their skill sets. These women are passed over for promotions more often than their more modestly dressed female colleagues.

2.  Dressing in Fashion Trends

Another faux pas working women make is modeling the latest fashion trends in the office.  Even if the short skirt with leggings is the “in look” for the season, it is not appropriate for the executive woman to display at work.  As Coco Chanel stated, “Fashion fads, only style remains forever.”

3.  Ill-Fitting Clothing

The classiest outfit can be an eye-sore if it is too baggy or if a shirt button is pulling. Ensure your clothes have fluidity –no snug pants or too-narrow skirts.  Find a great tailor to adjust clothing as needed.  Many department stores have on-site tailors.  Just a few tweaks to an ill-fitted suit can make you look more authoritative.

4.  Undergarments Showing

With the abundance of specialized undergarments available to consumers (Spanx’s seamless power panties, for example), there is no need for bulging panty lines, unsightly bra straps, or thong tops. Many department and specialty stores have trained staff to assist with proper fittings.

5.  See-Though Clothing

Sheer materials such as organza, chiffon, or liquid jersey may look and feel cool and comfortable, but in the light of an office they can be too revealing.  Before leaving for the office, check your ensemble in a bright, naturally lit room and in front of a full length mirror.  Always wear conservative camisoles under transparent blouses or jackets.  Wear a slip or Spanx under sheer dresses and skirts.  Pants and skirts with linings are always safe bets.

6.  Over-accessorizing

A rule of thumb when it comes to accessories in the workplace: Less is more.  Costume jewelry, when worn in bulk, tends to look tacky.  Wearing too many diamonds may be interpreted as pretentious. For the boardroom, consider one statement piece plus subtle accessories.  For example, if  you wear a chunky beaded necklace stick to understated earrings.

7.   Casualty Fridays

Nothing says “unprofessional” more than wearing beach attire to work on “Casual Fridays.”  Sundresses, hot pants, terry clothed sweatsuits, spaghetti straps, and flip-flops all convey that you are dressed for the beach rather than business. Wearing a “third piece” like a jacket, neutral blazer or cardigan will help make your casual outfit look more professional.  Trade the tube top for a silk shell and the Crocs for great ballerina flats.

Before you get dress each day think… what impression do I want to  make on my boss, clients and  co-workers?

written by admin \\ tags: business dress, powerful dressing, professional dress, women dress for success