You are your own business card!

Estelle writes; For several years I worked as an interior designer for a magazine. I wore casual clothing and never met a client. Recently, I have opened my own Interior Design firm. I need some wardrobe basics to wear when I visit clients. What do you suggest? I should add that I don’t wear make-up or jewelry and am comfortable in dark solid colours.

Dear Estelle, Congratulations on the launch of your own Interior Design business. As a small business owner in a creative service business your own appearance will be very important. Being an interior designer your clothing should speak for you. The message “this woman has good taste, she understands fabric, colour, balance and proportion.” Since your preference is not to accessorize or embellish yourself, your clothing must speak with its cut, fabric and fit.

I recently dressed someone who had similar parameters and needs for her wardrobe. First, we selected a long straight black skirt in four season stretch wool. Then we added a jacket to match. The jacket had a velvet collar and trim on the pockets. It was classic and yet artsy. The fit was perfect and would work all times of day depending on her selection of shoes and underpinnings. To create a variety of looks from this suit we added a white ribbed turtleneck, a black square neck tank top, a blue red crinkle fabric satin trim shell and a couple of scarves that would work tied as an ascot into the neck of the jacket.

My advice to you is to think of dressing as you would approach decorating a room. Select the mood and atmosphere you want to create, then do it tastefully within the parameters of good taste and personal style. Good luck in you new business. Enjoy creating your own personal wardrobe statement.

Bev writes, I am taking a group of ladies to New York for a weekend conference. As soon as we land we will be greeted by the president of my company. I want to travel comfortably and would usually wear stretch jeans and a sweater. Since I am in charge and there is no time to change before I meet my boss (for the first time) what do you suggest I wear? I own a classic black suit and planned to take it along. Should I wear it on the plane?

Marilyn writes, You are correct-don’t wear jeans. For comfort select a long straight stretch wool fabric skirt or pant in a flattering basic colour. A silk twin set could work for a top. Take a co-ordinating jacket with you to complete your look. Perhaps a rich brown or navy with ivory accents would work for you. This would mean you would travel comfortably and emerge looking smartly casual and professional. This would allow to you to keep your high powered black business suit for the other conference occasions. Also the items you travel in can mix & match with your black for variety if the need arises.

Do prepare to exit the plane in style. First impressions do count. Enjoy!