Trends Report: Suit Yourself

April 8, 2008 SUIT YOURSELF Pardon us, your image is showing. Right or wrong we are judged on appearance. In fact, within the first thirty seconds you meet someone an indelible impression is formed that is hard to change. 55% is based on what you are wearing and 38% is based on your “presentation” that is to say your body language. Since your sparkling personality and sharp intellect are in the bottom 7%, you’ll want to maximize that mind-boggling 93% percentage to your advantage. Nowhere is this truer than the ultimate first impression deal maker-breaker: the job interview. Unless you are interviewing for a highly creative or fashion-forward position, this is not your opportunity to rock the latest fads…you want your suit to say “I know what I’m doing” NOT “I just got a bargain on this chartreuse mini skirt!” A properly fitted wardrobe keeps your look polished and makes clothes appear tailor-made. Below are some general guidelines to consider when shopping for a suit. For more detailed information consult our Proper Fit Guide in your Bodyline Profile at www.alwaysinstyle.com. • Good suits are lined with silk, and the lining lays flat. Anything less and fabric will bunch up projecting a lumpy, ill-fitting silhouette. • If the suit has a pattern like a check or print of any kind then coordinates should match when worn together. Nothing breaks up a look like pinstripes that don’t line up or mismatched patterns. • Your lapels should be reinforced to help them lie flat. • Steer clear from fabric that is too shiny, wrinkly, or clingy. These are three characteristics that don’t belong in the boardroom. (Or anywhere else for that matter). • Pleats and darts should not pull apart, no gaping at the bust, and pockets should remain closed. Go up a size and have pieces tailored to your dimensions. • If you’re wearing a pencil skirt or straight cut trousers the fabric should hang straight from the buttocks, not curve under. Again, these signs are indicative of clothing that is too small. Go a size up for a more flattering fit. And finally – if it doesn't fit, don't buy it, even if it's on sale. Chances are it will end up at the back of your closet sacrificing precious closet space that would be better used for this season’s Must-Haves in your size and style. Pinstripe Suit Ann Taylor Cotton-linen Ottoman Toulon jacket & pencil skirt J. Crew Bird’s Eye Suit Jacket & Fluted Skirt Banana Republic Signature Two-Way Stretch Suiting Spiegel Lavender Black Pantsuit J.C. Penney Lightweight Stretch Wool Suit Talbots