Posts with tag 'Professional Dress'

October 4, 2011
- Sophisticated Style

Whether one is just entering the workforce or simply looking to update their current look, adding a touch of sophistication is a must for every wardrobe! Sophisticated styles are classic and timeless.

Color and Pattern

Patterned clothing appears less sophisticated than solid colors, specifically richer, darker hues. Dark colors will exude sophistication. Black should be a go to color in creating a sophisticated, refined and polished look.

Fabric

Silks and wools are more sophisticated fabric choices than cotton or jersey. When shopping be sure to touch the fabric. Higher quality fabrics will not only feel softer to the touch and last longer than lower quality fabrics but also appear more sophisticated. I recommend a silk blouse or a fitted dress in a rich color. Look for details such as interesting necklines or polished closures to keep your look unique and fashion forward.

Fit

How a garment fits is the most important factor for any look. Sophisticated pieces should fit impeccably. Garments should have clean, crisp lines and should be tailored for the individuals’ body. Make sure clothing is not too loose to avoid appearing sloppy and lengthen hemlines to the just above or below the knees. A tailored jacket or a pencil skirt will instantly add refinement and sophistication. Alterations can play a huge role in creating a sophisticated look so I recommend finding a great tailor to ensure each piece fits perfectly.

Phoebe

Phoebe@milenaconsulting.com

October 28, 2010
- The Modern Man Bag

The days of carrying a stiff briefcase are over. Trade yours in for a more modern and sophisticated option. Messenger bags are becoming the must-have item for successful men on the go. Whether you’re going to the office, the gym, or on a weekend getaway these stylish options will keep you looking cool and confident. We are loving military inspired bags right now because they are versatile and never seem to go out of style. Another cool-guy option is a distressed leather bag. To get the most out of your investment, find a bag that walks the line of professional and casual. You will be able to take it anywhere and look the part.

October 7, 2010
- Pull your Look Together with Tights!

Whether its leather, fur, suede, or velvet fall is all about mixing texture. One quick and easy way to add more texture and dimension to your look is with a pair of tights. Not only are tights a great way to stay warm on breezy fall days, they will up your style factor as you mix and match your way in this fall's easiest trend!

Black tights. If you still aren’t sold on skinny jeans and leggings, don’t worry. Wearing black tights is an easy way to get a similar streamlined look. We love black tights because they are so versatile. You can pair them with a printed dress, a tunic, or even a pair of menswear shorts.

Patterned Tights. So much fun and dangerous at the same time. Patterned tights can add a touch of style to any simple dress but can go disasterously bad if you don't chose the right pattern. Creative types can pair them with a patterned dress as long as the patterns don't compete. Smaller, tightly woven patterns look best on most bodies. Larger patterns will make your legs look large too. Look for a pair that has a verticle line weaved in to give your leg some added visual length.

Colored tights. If you are feeling adventurous try a pair of colored tights. We’re not talking about the tights you daughter wears with her tu tu. Deep and rich colors like burgundy and plum will keep your look grown up. We love pairing them with luxe neutrals like grey and camel.

Clash of the Tight-tans. Before you’re convinced that all tights are created equal, let’s talk about trends that don’t measure up. You may have seen white or light colored tights on runways and in magazines. But because light colors expand light, white tights will only make your legs look larger. Not to mention they come off as very young-looking.

Another tight trend to avoid is loud patterned or brightly colored tights. Stripes, plaid, and houndstooth are great to line your trench, but don’t do your legs justice. Any stretching or change in the pattern will draw unwanted attention. Bright colors work best on young girls with slim legs, if at all. They tend to look a bit costume and aren't appropriate for the office.

September 22, 2010
- Business Casual Suit at Delish Demure - Milena's Must-Have

Delish Demure is a professional fashionista's dream! This boutique has everything from Commando underwear to designer jeans and cute party dresses. We discovered a great mix and match suit outfit. It's not your traditional black classic suit so it makes it more fun, creative and most importantly, exciting to wear.

September 22, 2010
- The Blazer is Back

Actually, they never went anywhere. If you don’t own a blazer it’s time to man-up with this essential wear anywhere and everywhere jacket. From traditional, country club to edgy fashion forward styles, there is a look out there for everyone. Knowing what to look for and how to wear a blazer will help you create your distinct style.

Your blazer should be a perfect fit. This will make or break the overall look of your blazer. Start with your shoulders and make sure you have the proper fit. It is easy to alter other parts of the blazer, but the shoulders are hard to alter and are also the most expensive alteration. Sleeve length should hit a quarter to a half inch before your hand to allow the sleeve of your shirt fall out. The most modern jackets fit slim through the waist and have a center vent.

Wear your blazer with jeans for anything from a first date to a meeting with the President, like Russian Prime Minister Dimitri Medved did. Pants work too, but make sure they compliment rather than match the blazer. Your blazer should not be mistaken for a poorly matched suit.

There are endless options of what to wear under your blazer including a simple button-up (with or without a tie), sweaters, pull-overs, t-shirts, turtlenecks and cardigans. Here are a few examples from Neiman Marcus:

January 11, 2009
- Move Out of Your Comfort Zone

Have you made any New Year's Resolutions for your wardrobe in 2009? It might seem silly to think about, but I guarantee there are a lot of changes that will make you feel fine in 2009! This year, resolve to MOVE OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE!

1. Try a New Store or Brand...
Many of us go to the same "safe" or staple stores and brands to buy what we know, or at least what we think, works. By taking the easy way out, you are missing out on the endless possibilities to find unique pieces to rev-up your style. The same-old is boring. Diversify your closet and you'll feel like new!

2. Try a New Color...
If your closet is a sea of black or resembles Pepto Bismol, then commit to seeking out a new color this year. It will add life to your closet and I guarantee you will get compliments because everyone around you will be pleasantly surprised to see the monotony end and see you in something new!

3. Don't Wait for "Something Special"...
You know those fancy dresses or tops you save for a special occasion? Pull them out and put them on right now! Stop waiting for some day that never seems to come. If you avoid wearing it because it is expensive, that is all the more reason to start wearing it now. You need to get as many wears as you can out of that hand-made dress to make it pay for itself!

4. Put on Something Sexy...
Feel good about yourself and your body this year and sass it up a bit! Get the cute panties and bras out of the bedroom and into your everyday wardrobe. Your undergarments are the foundation for every outfit, so you want whatever is closest to your skin to make you feel good. Try to wear something a little more form fitted (not tight) than usual. Maybe bare a little more skin (not your belly) than usual. When you look sexy, you feel sexy, and ultimately you will be sexy!

5. Get Dolled-Up, For Work...
When you think about how much of your day is spent at your job, why wouldn't you want to feel good the majority of each day? You deserve to feel great every day, not just for special occasions. Taking the time to look polished for work will make you professionally more attractive to clients and co-workers, which can result in more sales, better relationships or even a promotion!

November 24, 2008
- Five Top Tips For Professional Dress

Here are five top tips that can have you looking sharp and professional. Sometimes we just need a reminder of what is appropriate for work, even in a business casual environment you need to pay attention to what you wear. It only takes 7 seconds to make a first impressions and 55% of that impression is based on how you present yourself!

1. Use neutral colors as the framework for your outfit. These colors are black, gray, brown, beige, taupe, and cream. Then add a piece that is in your color palette. For example pair a gray suit with eggplant (purple) shell, button-up, scarf or tie. The gray suit is the foundation and is refined, while the color will add creative interest while making you look more energized and interesting.

2. Make sure your clothes fit appropriately. In a professional environment you want to be careful not to "overexpose" yourself. Showing cleavage is never appropriate. This can easily be fixed with a camisole under any shirt. Your skirt length should be no shorter than 2 inches from your knee. Visit a tailor to make sure your suit fits properly, as there is nothing more unprofessional or obvious than an ill fitting suit.

3. Accessorize with caution and class. Your accessories should be used to enhance your visual presence, not distract from your message. Chandelier earrings, multiple bangle bracelets and any accessories that swing or make noise while you move can all be major distractions. Keep your jewelry simple and clean. Limit yourself to three pieces or less. Use scarves to attract attention to your face. Use classy, simple hair accessories to secure hair in place and keep it off your face.

4. Look at the whole picture. When people meet you, they look at you from head to toe. No piece goes unnoticed, so if you are carrying a worn out bag or have scratched up shoes, they will notice. Details such as having your nails groomed and cleaned is just as important. If you have a fabulous outfit on, but your hair looks like a mess, then you've ruined the picture!

5. Mix it up. Wearing the same suit with the same old button-up can be really boring. In today's world, there are so many other options that don't include a button up and matchy-matchy suit pieces. Try pairing a tailored blazer with a high-waisted pencil skirt or blouse. Pair a tweed skirt with a silk, flowy blouse. By mixing different materials you get a little bit different feel out of the outfit. For more casual looks you can jazz up some neutral black or cream pants with a long sweater jacket layered over a fitted t-shirt (must be high quality) and add a fun, but appropriate necklace. Men can opt for high quality t-shirt with a blazer over it - it looks simple, yet sophisticated!