When The Market Goes Down, Should You Dress Up?
How to make sure you're sending the right message
By Scarlett De Bease
When The Market Goes Down, Should You Dress Up? The answer is “yes,” but know what message you are trying to send to those around you and to yourself. It is now more important than ever to project the correct image in every aspect of your life, whether at work, home, or a holiday party.
At the office, or wherever your career takes you, this is no time to dress down. Even if your office still has “casual Fridays” do not choose to dress casually. In these extremely unsettling economic times many companies are downsizing. You want to make sure you are projecting the image of a dedicated, professional, serious, hard- working employee. You represent the company and this is not the time to wear a pair of jeans and a T-shirt.
You need to stand out by looking as though your sleeves are rolled up and you are prepared to work. You do not want to look like you are ready to go on the company picnic or are too stressed to bother getting dressed properly. When dressing the part of a great employee you will actually feel and behave more professionally as well. You want to look and act as though you are indispensable. In short, by maintaining a professional appearance you just might avoid being on the company’s short list of potential layoffs.
When out and about in your private life — at the supermarket, dropping the kids off at school or extracurricular activities, etc. -- you should also take some time to put together outfits that fit and flatter you the best. We all know that if we feel good about our appearance our mood improves as well.
Lipstick sales go up when times get tough. Why? Because women need to feel better about themselves and a new lipstick is a quick, inexpensive way to pick up their spirits.
These are scary times but rather than succumb to fear and throw in the towel regarding how we dress, why not take a bit more time than usual to get dressed in the morning. There is no downside to improving one’s state of mind, and as I always say, you never know whom you might bump into.
If your office or friends are hosting a holiday party, and this year there will be very few parties, it is perfectly acceptable to dress festively but in moderation. By all means dress with the intent of celebrating the holiday season, but this is not the time to flash your bling-bling or large initialed handbag and belt. Moderation is in style now. It is also tasteful and respectful to those who are having a rough time.
For the office party, consider adding a jewel-toned silk or satin top to the pants or skirt you wear to work as a simple, festive, pretty way to dress up your outfit. Touch up your makeup and add some shine to your lips. Now you are ready to celebrate your good fortune in working for a company that is financially sound enough to throw a holiday party.
For a party with friends and/or neighbors, this is the perfect opportunity to get back to basics, not only in what you wear but also in what you value in life. Simple tops and bottoms are the perfect match for gatherings with the important people in your life.
Gone are the nights of champagne toasts to all the ‘things’ you own. This year, celebrate the true meaning of the holidays: family, friends, and, hopefully, good health.
About the Author
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Scarlett De Bease is a professional Image Consultant and Wardrobe Stylist, who specializes in creating wardrobes for her clients that allows them to look and feel their best for every occasion, and on any budget. She has been in the fashion and cosmetic industries for over 20 years, always with the goal of helping her clients realize their full potential. Scarlett shows her clients the trick and tips to look YOUNGER, THINNER and TALLER. www.scarlettnewyork.com. |
