Is your image living up to your message?

The tuxedo shirt, Banana Republic for $79.50

::::Style Tip:::: The best thing you can do is have a well fitted

white button up. Throw it on when your in a hurry, add jewelry, a black trouser and

you are out the door. Can't go wrong :-)

Dear Tannya,

Life as an entrepreneur has had it's up and downs. I've been working hard but slacking on style. Are there any tips you can give to a woman that works hard but wants to look like she "tried" to get ready for the day?

-Fashionably Frustrated

Dear Fashionably Frustrated,

You have inspired me to write an article about your situation because it is so common. With the economy, style can be difficult but it doens't have to be. I hope this article inspires you to play with your look and what you currently own.

“I believe that function should dictate the style. Function is always a beautiful departure for style.” Diane von Furstenberg

-Tannya Bernadette

As an entrepreneur you have had the opportunity to make your own schedule, work from home, designate time to spend with the family, and been able to feel proud of the solo tasks that you set out to accomplish. With the success and effort you put into your business have you put the same effort in getting dressed?

Yes, for some getting dressed is a job in itself. Sometimes you forget the impact your image has towards others. With your clothing you send a non verbal message to your clients and those around you. Do they perceive you as authoritative, mature, secure, or maybe you are more along the lines of a more negative business message? Don’t be alarmed, it can happen to the best of us.

At first you may have looked at yourself in the mirror 3 times to make sure everything in place but, as time went by you slowly stopped putting the effort. It is a bad habit to get into, but I guarantee if you are working from home today and you go and wash your face, get dressed up a little, and look at yourself in the mirror, you will have more energy to take on everything that comes your way.

There should be a book of advice on the working woman’s wardrobe, especially with the economy the way it is. As entrepreneurs your business is a huge part of your life and money may not be coming in as much as you hope. But there is still hope for your style. Just to clarify in case you do not know the difference between fashion and style, style is a reflection of who you are. So be creative, open up your closet and set time aside to make new combinations with what you already own. Remember less is more, but if there are gaps in your wardrobe you need to fill, make sure they are smart purchases. Try local consignment shops or getting what you own tailored or redone.

Here is a list of some scenarios and advice to update your business look:

1. You have been wearing the same style for the past few years

It becomes easy to go in your closet pick out one thing and quickly throw it on. There is no second thought as to maybe it may not be you anymore, may not be functional for your day’s event, or even well fitting. You don’t think of new ways to wear what you have and haven’t invested in any new wardrobe pieces to upgrade your look.
Does the style you wear make you feel good about yourself and send the message you want clients to take in? Probably not.

Fashion Fix:

• Wear a crisp white button up and throw on studded earrings and a bracelet. Simple is the best way to start.


• Start getting dressed by wearing one item from your closet you love and add the pieces that work with it. You may find that saving your favorite clothes for “special” occasions is not worth it. Especially if that favorite piece makes you feel good about yourself.


• If you buy new pieces for your wardrobe, don’t wear them all at once! Combine one new piece with two old. You’ll get more from your purchases.


• Don’t buy a piece you cannot combine 3 different ways with what you already own. This is the trouble with some shoppers. Buy one piece then never wear it because it really isn’t you if you can’t mix it in.

2. You feel safe in a suit

Who doesn’t feel safe in a suit? It is a timeless piece and one that if you purchase a good quality fabric, lasts many years. But maybe the suit is starting to bore you, maybe you want a little spice to boost your confidence, or your image. Remember, you don’t have to look serious to be taken seriously. If you add a little personality to your style you will wear the clothes instead of letting it overpower you.

Fashion Fix:

• Wear a blouse with a pop of color (the best color is the one you own the most of).


• Buy a gray suit, it can look casual or dressed up. Black is as safe as a suit but if you build on using other colors to work into your wardrobe, you will have more versatility.


• Invest in a pair of high heels that give you a sense of authority and confidence. I’ve found that women feel much more attractive when wearing a good fitted heel.


• Use a handbag that is functional yet made of good quality. You can never go wrong with black, it is always chic and makes it go with any outfit.
  

3. Your work wear is anything casual

Getting dressed isn’t so much about fashion as it is clothing that accentuates your personality and life. Function has a lot to do with your choices and casual may make you feel more comfortable with your daily tasks. You may be looking for a way to add a little bit of pizzazz to your casual look without going overboard. Below is some advice to take a little risk in your casual wear.

Fashion Fix:

• Dress up your jeans with a blazer. This is a look that makes it look like you put no effort yet will make you look ready for challenge.


• Shop for a navy pant, and dress it down with a crisp white tee and necklace. Who knew a white tee could look so good?


• Make sure you have a shoe whether it is a flat or a heel that makes you feel powerful. Sneakers won’t do, try to keep two pairs, one for outdoor adventures with the kids and the other for the gym. Slowly integrate shoes that complete your overall look.


• Wear a skirt, tights, and boots (there are flat stylish boots!). Did you know that when the economy starts to plummet, so do hemlines? Please wear a skirt that is a couple inches above the knee or below, whatever works best.
  


• Although money may be tight, creativity is bursting with flavor. Take the time to analyze yourself and the message you transmit to others with your style. Work with what you have and be true to yourself. Style is adding pieces that make you feel more you, try new things but make sure they continue to define your personal look.