Now that Diwali is behind us, I’m starting to think about the Christmas holiday season. But the challenge remains the same: How does a woman in a leadership position transition from stiff work attire to evening fun and frivolity.
I’m enrolled in a business program with image consultant Mary Lou Andre of Dressing Well, whom I’m also happy to call a friend. She dresses executives in the C-Suite, so I thought she would be the perfect person to ask.
Joya: Mary Lou, I’m usually in my uniform. A form fitting TV anchor dress. I often joke, that the only things that change are the colors and the collars. How can I quickly jazz things up for an after-work holiday party and still look like an executive?
Mary Lou: You can take your dresses from ‘ho-hum’ to ‘fantastic’ by pairing them with dressy booties. Keep hems at, just above, or just below the knee to be on-trend and professional at the same time.
Joya: I’m used to wearing bright colors for television, but for those who want a more subdued tone, what would you suggest?
Mary Lou: Loden green moves easily from workday to evenings to weekends throughout the winter months. Everyone seems to wear this color well!
Joya: Ok, I’ve got the color tip. What about a fabric tip?
Mary Lou: Velvet! It always adds a festive flair in cooler months. Consider using it as an accent at more casual office gatherings for a fresh spin.
Joya: I’m always cold. It’s to a fault, I know. But I shudder at the thought of wearing a short sleeved dress in the winter to parties. What’s a good layering piece that will keep me warm?
Mary Lou: Warm and stylish, shawl wraps work over just about any outfit and help you make a dramatic entrance wherever you go.
Joya: I’m also a New Yorker, so I own ALOT of black. What’s an easy way to transition black outfits to holiday festive?
Mary Lou: Gold accessories paired with all black ensembles are an easy way to create elegant after-five outfits.
These are amazing, actionable tips. Thank you Mary Lou!
To learn more about Dressing Well, go to www.dressingwell.com
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