Cleavage at Work? Its it O.K.?

Women do seem to be showing their cleavage more than ever, don't you think? Why is that? 

Elisabeth Squires, author of "Boobs: A Guide to Your Girls, says "American women's breasts are getting bigger while shirts are getting smaller. We are seeing more cleavage these days for a few reasons. First, fashions are tight and skinny. At the same time, women are bigger than they were even 15 years ago. Bra fitters tell me that an E cup is the new C cup," Squires said on "Good Morning America."

What is appropriate?  We do know that what looks good for a night out on the town is probably not appropriate in the workplace. The truth of the matter is that cleavage should never make an appearance in the office. Period. In fact, in most corporate offices, the rule of thumb is a that a woman's shirt or dress should land two inches above the cleavage. In other words, your "cleavage line" shouldn't be showing....at all. 

Do you agree?

Hose or No Hose? Are Tights O.K.? What Do YOU Think?

Most folks that we've asked say NO to panty hose. Regardless of their age, profession or the occasion they're dressing for, panty hose are out of the question for most women.  Bare legs and "sunless tanner" seems to be the popular choice.  Everyone does agree that panty hose are absolutely forbidden when wearing open toed shoes! 

Of course, there is an argument to be made for surviving the cold Winter months.... especially in Michigan.  That's what tights for. They're the perfect accessory and provide color, texture AND warmth! They’re super cute and trendy, too!

The true fashionistas that we've talked with would NEVER wear nude color hose, but do make an exception for black. They wear bronzer on bare legs. They wear tights, lace tights, textured tights, printed tights...They love them all.  

What do you think? We'd LOVE to know!

Shades of Gray in Dressing Business Casual

There are, of course, shades of grey to Business Casual. Each industry has their own "norm", too.  

Ad agencies are typically more hip and trendy. 

The automotive industry is all about casual dressing. GM's updated dress code simply encourages employees to dress "appropriately". Ford's "relaxed business casual" policy states that employees must use good judgement and dress appropriately for the business environment and work requirements. That means that "business appropriate jeans" are allowed except when meeting with external contacts, dealers, suppliers and potential employees. The next question is what jeans are appropriate? At Ford, they must be hemmed, not frayed, faded, worn, torn or stained. No studs, decorative stitching, bling or rhinestones.

Dressing For Success * A Piece at a Time

A blazer or jacket is a key piece to any business wardrobe. A nice quality jacket is worth it's investment because of it's incredible versatility. Wear it over a dress or with jeans. Perfect over a maxi dress or with a long skirt. It's a must-have or staple in any professional's wardrobe.