Signature Bag

Hi Pres,

You gave me excellent advice on my previous query, so I decided to turn to you again for another "accessory" question. About a year and half ago before I developed my personal style, I bought an everyday bag. It is dark brown with a tiny black repeating design and black leather accents. It's a pretty bag, but I originally bought it because I thought it would go with both brown and black outfits. Now, I don't own brown (but I do love black), and I kind of find the bag boring. I'm looking for suggestions to spice things up. I don't need a big bag (just big enough for chap stick, wallet, and a brush). My wardrobe has a great deal of black, white, charcoal, and I'm adding some new shirts in blue, green, and purple. I want a fun bag, and I don't necessarily mind a trendy one, so long as it's inexpensive. My life revolves around casual wear mostly, so a "business" bag is not required. What do you suggest?

Thanks!
Siepres


You are responding to the recent changes in handbag style (and in un-matching outfits) that has made the bag a focus of whimsy in perfect casual ensembles. It's no wonder that you are bored with your brown/black bag (which, BTW, you can rescue by adding a small, but very bright scarf tied around the handle, or, a few large "charms," like a key case, or ID tag. I also saw some business with adding color over, but I'd be afraid to try it. In addition, your B/B bag could work as the counterpoint to an outfit with light colors, like a white shirt, light beige crops, and bright colored sandals.)

For your new bag, go to some high end fashion sites, like shopbop, and look over the clutches. See how far the designers have gone with shapes and colors, and find one that appeals to you. Since it's Spring, I'd look at pink, yellow, turquoise, and green. Large clutch purses are really neat just now. Once you have a good idea of what you like, start the search for one like it at another price point like this.
I know this won't look exactly like the high end ones, but if you are clever, and lucky, you can find a cheaper one that will give you the look that you want for the season, and which you can discard later, without feeling guilty. Since you started your question with "not boring" and "inexpensive," I'd advise this route. If you had asked me about "classic" and "quality investment," I would have answered differently.

Good luck, and let us know how it went (Post A Comment when you find the bag.)

Layering Vee Necks

Hello Pres,
Can you help with this? I have been layering sweaters over simple Tee shirts and feel that a Vee neck sweater only looks good if there is a scoop or crew neck underneath. A Vee neck over a Vee neck just looks wrong to me. Is it just me? A collared shirt open into a Vee looks fine. Are there any tips for layering successfully?

Layering, and evaluating necklines, requires some skill. Here are a few tips to help you:
Be sure that the Vee neck is the best neckline for you. If your eyes are your best feature, a straight boatneck is a better neckline for you; and if your chest isn't prominent, a scoop, even for layering, is better than a Vee.

A Vee is best to highlight a curvy bosom, by pointing the eye downward to it, and a deeper Vee will serve to minimize a larger bosom, by cutting the area that's covered by cloth. Here's an extreme example. Note how the color blocks cut the chest area into three areas, instead of one unbroken expanse.

Be sure that the Vee of your layering piece isn't too short. Underneath, try wearing a cami with a straight line across the chest; consider a lacy one. As always, you have to try the combinations to be sure of the effect. For a great Vee look, make sure that the Vee is a good choice for you; choose the proper length for the Vee, and, if you want to layer, add a contrasting or complimentary color in a straight line, under.

Tired Eyes

Pres,

You've helped tremendously with anything else I've asked; may I throw you my toughest pitch?

I struggle to keep my eyes from looking tired (and....old...I am 55). This is not a new thing; I was concerned about this even as a teenager. My eyes are a pale green color and my skin is quite fair. My original hair color was very dark, but I keep my hair a highlighted dark blond now, for a couple of reasons:

1) I never felt that I really had "brunette" coloring and

2) My greying is right on top of my head (think a beanie) and it is a steel gray color that really stands out against darker hair, but blends more easily with the highlighted hair.

I went through an auburn experience that worked faily well with eyes and skin, but the new growth was horrendous after 10 days or so. As is, I have the roots touched up every three weeks.

I've tried many eye products and colors, but my eyes still get lost.

At the urging of a department store visiting stylist, I've started using a brow corrector in a dark brown. He also suggested an eyelid base that has helped a bit, and to forget the standard advice to avoid black eyeliner since my eyes are green and that has been surprisingly ok, but by day's end I'm still looking faded and washed out.

I really believe that there is a color combination and a staying trick or two that could deal with this. I exercise and rest appropriately, so it really isn't a health issue. The skin is thin, obviously, but not stretched or baggy.

Any ideas pop into your head?! Thanks!


I've always felt that certain aspects of features that are perceived as age related, are actually not age related at all. Young people get a "pass" because of other visual clues in their appearance. For example, very tight curls are adorable on young girls, but are aging on mature women. Other folks have heavy eyelids, and some have purplish lips, dry skin with lines, you name it. If you are young, these features may be smallish flaws, but later, they are seen as signs of aging. Losing weight will make anyone look younger, although many young folks are overweight.

You have noticed your problem long ago, but now it seems worse to you. Anyway, I'm not going to say that you should ignore it! I do have some ideas.

I think the light hair works for you under these circumstances; at some point, almost all women will need to be blondes, in order to deal with gray. Be sure that the blonde that you have is the deepest, most vibrant, tone, and the darkest that your gray can handle. Your bangs should be as dark as possible, with the dark line over, or just barely covering your brows, if you can manage this.
Be sure that your eyebrows are exactly as high they should be; and that they are not too thick or too thin. Perfect brows will lift your face. The arch should be at the outer corner of your eye, not inward. Use a mascara for eyebrows to color your brow hairs; this also adds thickness, and pulls the hair upward.

Add a white shadow under the arch. Use a darker shadow (like a brown?) from the brow bone down. Avoid any purples, or pinks as eye makeup. They look like signs of illness. Although your skin should be well moisturized (every night) the powders should be dry. None of your eye makeup should be shimmery or greasy.

Use an eyelash curler to curl your upper lashes upward. If you can get the right angle of crimp into your lash, it will pull your lid up and open your eyes. Experiment with the eyeliner; you may need liner on the outer corners of the eyes only; or the liner may be better drawn inward. I haven't liked the look of a white dot placed in the inner corner of my eyes, but try it. And, try the "fat pink pencil" concealer under the eyes.

Don't underestimate the effect that the correct blush has on your eyes, and rework your lipstick. I can't tell whether you need more deep color, or less, but you will know. Be sure to put a layer of airbrush foundation around your lips to stop color bleeding and that the foundation is not too pale for you.
Good Luck!

To Dress My Age?

I just turned 50 & I am having some problems as to how to dress my age. I want to be stylish but not look as if I am "trying too hard," if you get what I mean. I am 5'3", 115 pounds, with dark brown hair 3" past my shoulders, and fair skin. Cutting my hair is not an option; I have to keep my husband happy! Any suggestions regarding my wardrobe? I just started a consulting business, which I will be marketing to other business women & men. The majority of my potential clients dress in casual business attire. Thanks so much for any advice you can give me!


The general guidelines for business wardrobes apply here. The only difference above a certain age (30?) is the items that go into making a business wardrobe; they should be high quality, fit perfectly, and in excellent condition. Although a teen may be excused for some variations in fit, and fabric, this does not apply to you.

For business casual, with a client based business, this is even more important. For your specific height&weight, you will need to avoid any childlike styles, such as puffy short sleeves and Maryjane flats.

Start with a suit, and separate the pieces (you may wear them together for important meetings.) Take the pants, and add a coordinating top, such as a wrap top, and find another jacket to go over. Stay with menswear fabrics, such as fine wools and tweeds. No denim or unpressed khaki twill. Take the jacket of the suit, and find another skirt, or other pants. Remember to look for shoes when you have the garments in hand, and have the clothes shortened for the shoes. Medium heel pumps, or wedges, in patent or suede will work for you. A jacket is the key to authoritative dressing. Be sure that the shoulders fit perfectly.

If your long hair is glowing, smooth, and cut into a discernible style, it is an asset for you. Untrimmed long hair, pulled back into a low, thin ponytail, has the opposite effect.

Remember to update your bra size, make-up and nails. Review old accessories, and abandon passe items such as skin tone sheer stockings, and substitute modern alternatives, like tinted sheers, opaques, semi-opaques, and patterned and textured tights.
Here's a jacket with matching pants. And here's a jacket to add to the mix.

Sweet Spot

HI! I have read several of your comments here and on other websites and was wondering what the "sweet spot" for jackets is. What is the proper length and style of jacket for a 56 y/o 5'5" chunky female? Is there a particular style (cropped, long, 3-4 botton, etc) that would be preferable.
Thanks...Joy

Ah, the Sweet Spot. It's elusive, but not impossible to find. The aim of your perfect outfits is to create an hourglass figure with the best proportion between legs and torso. If you'll re-read that, you'll see that it says the outfit will create the hourglass, not that you should be one naturally. Looking at the hourglass, you'll see that there's a narrow point just below the bust, at the torso; we'd like to emphasize this angle, too.

And a jacket is the perfect way to do so, because the jacket can be seamed to hold the curve in place, and visually superimpose it on your frame. The only mistake you can make is having the jacket end too low, so that your legs look too short, or too high, so that there isn't room for the visible illusion of the narrow part below the torso.

Here's a jacket that's done our poor model in. And she's tall and thin, believe me.

The collar adds bulk just below the neck, instead of creating a vee, to lead the eye to the curve of the bosom. The sleeves cut off just at our favorite narrowest point, creating a wide horizontal line, instead of emphasizing the vertical, and the sweet spot is totally obliterated, as the eye is drawn down to the hem of the jacket, somewhere south of the hips.

Now, compare and contrast this Jacket. No matter what size (not too tight! Let the jacket do the work.) This jacket is going to create a longer neck (Deep vee. Can be filled in with contrasting cami or shell); a curvy waist (see the seams; and the buttons are a cute touch.) and, if it stands far enough (just a half inch) away from the belly, and a dark, flat front skirt is worn under, that will disappear, too. Note where the cuffs end; on the forearms, above the usually narrow wrists. And the hem makes a line just where the torso should end, and the legs begin.

Will this jacket work for you? I can't tell from here. You'd have to try. But don't bother trying the first one, it won't work; of that you can be sure.

Pres

New Job in New City

Hi! My problem seems to be the same as many young adults who are stepping away from college and into professional lives. Currently, I work in a casual environment where my wardrobe consists of simple trousers and polo shirts. I'm preparing to relocate from Tampa, FL to Washington, DC to pursue a professional career. I'm obviously in need of a fashion upgrade, but I'm not sure where to start. I've never worked in a professional environment before and I really don't have a lot of money to spend.
Fit is always a problem for me. I'm a typical hour-glass figure with a large chest and large hips, but I'm also short at only 5'2". My typical size seems to be a 16. I always find that I need to keep going up sizes just to fit the widest part of me, but the rest of the outfit looks too big. It's very frustrating. Any suggestions? Thank you!
Michelle


Once again, there are two very important questions here.
Building a new wardrobe, for a different city, and a different work environment, isn't a one time task, and is not likely to happen on a single shopping expedition. It's going to take a plan; and I'll show you how; this is called "The Pres Method."

Don't overdo the shopping until you actually see your new city and the folks who work there. Although you want a few outfits to get started, you don't want too many before you see what's up.

Start with one perfect outfit. Find a top or bottom, whichever is harder for you (more about the fit question later) and then find the other piece that works. For your Washington DC office, I'd suggest an A-line skirt, and its matching suit jacket, in a basic medium color, like gray, or light chocolate. Then, take the pieces with you to find some conservative pumps, with a medium heel, not too thin, nor curvy, in a neutral color like black, or chocolate. Have the skirt shortened, if needed, for the shoes. Under this suit jacket, add a button-front shirt in a conservative pastel color (like blue), or white. The collar of the shirt should be compatible with the jacket collar, and the sleeve lengths should work, too. If button fronts don't work for you, you may try a "shell," which is a shirt with a round collar, and a plain front, like a tee, but more structured, in a fabric with some crispness, like cotton, or a nice silk. Some knits work too, but it takes experience to pick them.

Then add another bottom to support the jacket/shirt combo; it could be matching, or coordinating, pants, in a fine tiny houndstooth, or menswear tweedy fabric. BTW, these pieces are available at low prices, check out Target, or Metrostyle. You can also add a few more pastel shirts.

Once you have a few ensembles, you can continue to move the pieces that work properly into more perfect outfits. A perfect outfit has components that don't interfere with each other; no piece rides up, sags down, gaps at the buttons, or otherwise malfunctions. No pockets are in the wrong place.

Don't stock up on random, orphan pieces with hopes of wearing them; this is likely to leave you with a closet full of clothes that don't work, instead of perfect outfits that you can't wait to put on.

About fit: All clothing comes in just two sizes: Too Big, and Too Small. This is true for every body type; it's because the clothing style is very fitted just now, and there's no general fit for our individual figures. I do blame manufacturers for abandoning any consistency in sizing, too. A good tip is to ignore all labels; size, price, and fabric content, and purchase clothing that looks great. Also, be absolutely certain that your bra size is correct; this may take a professional bra fitting, but will be worth it.

You will learn, after trying all sizes, that your clothing needs alterations. Shoulders are most difficult to alter (But not impossible. Sometimes, an imperceptible shoulder pad works); shoulder fit is where you should begin. Never buy an item that doesn't button completely, or gaps at the buttons. After you've found the right shoulder size, have the waist altered to fit. In pants or skirts, fit the widest part; hips, bottom or belly, and have the narrower part altered to fit perfectly.

This is the first step for you, in may ways; good luck on your new career!
Pres

Really Casual Workplace

I recently interviewed for a position with a small environmental engineering firm. Of course, I wore a suit to the interview, but I noticed everyone was dressed VERY casually. Jeans and polar fleece. People also bring their dogs to the office, so it's a very laid-back atmosphere. It's looking pretty likely that I will be asked for a second pre-hiring interview with the owner of the company, and I'm at a loss as to what to wear to that interview. For that matter, I'm at a loss as to how to dress when/if I get the job. The position involves client contact as well as field work. I know I'd look ridiculous and pretentious if I showed up to work in a suit, but I'd like to dress a bit more professionally than jeans and sweatshirts when I'm in the ofice. Any advice?


There are two different questions here, and we'll tackle them separately.
First, the interview. A job interview isn't a day at the job; it's a business meeting to discuss the applicant's qualifications, or details of the offer, etc. As the candidate, you should dress in job-search attire. Perhaps the high banker's pinstripe suit, with black leather heels, isn't absolutely necessary here, since you have looked over the work environment, but don't go too far out, either.

Opt for a very slightly more casual suit, with a coordinating shirt; maybe a wrap top, and a skirt, and medium heels with round toes. Dress properly for your applicant's position at the meeting. It's endearing to the interviewers to show respect. They know that you can always loosen up later.
Here are a few inexpensive Pants suits that might work. (This link may change some of the items, so I can't vouch for all of them.)

About the work outfits, you should look over the usual for the office (at your level, or above) and mimic that, with one aim, to look ready for promotion. Field work may require clothes for rougher conditions. For more clement situations, be sure that your casual clothes are perfectly groomed. Cashmere is just as warm as polar fleece, and lots prettier. Your co-workers and supervisors are not likely to notice in a negative way, if your clothes are the same type as theirs, slacks and flat heels, but with the slacks fitting perfectly, and the shoes being up-to-date. There are some gorgeous, glowing cords out there that will look great while you are petting the dogs.

It's more difficult to build a wardrobe of casual looking perfect outfits than formal ones, but it is worth it.

Good Luck!

Jewelry Expansion

I'm a pretty basic dresser, but I think I look nice most of the time. As far as accessories go, I own a few simple silver necklaces (like the classic Tiffany silver bean) some silver hoop earrings of different sizes, and a swiss army watch (small, with black leather band). I'm now 30, and I'd like to try to branch out a bit with some more adult/interesting accessories, but I have no idea where to start. I do have a budget, and my biggest challenge is figuring out the difference between a good find and a piece of junk in the less expensive jewelry department. I don't want to buy pieces that make people think I'm trying to look like an 18-year-old. Also, I'm petite - about 5'1" and 118 pounds, so I don't want to overdo it with my small frame.

Any thoughts?


I asked around among my friends for ideas for you.

The classic dressers said that they had a standard wardrobe of good jewelry, and never added anything that wasn't first quality (like your Tiffany piece.) They found that a coordinated group of jewelry accessories was all that they needed. This included, on one end, simple "diamond on a short chain" pendants, and, on the other, large colored stones reset into modern settings. All of them recommended buying the costliest pieces that you can afford. Good jewelry can be reset, redesigned, and recycled. (I have a lapel pin made from the links removed from a watch band.)

More creative types buy trendy pieces of all varieties, and mix costume jewelry in for a new look. They liked moving on and discarding pieces as they go. They use shell, wooden and plastic pieces to add punch to their outfits.

So, what fits your style?

For some specific advice, since you are petite, consider a silver cuff bracelet. Or maybe some *diamond* studs? (They can be good cubic zirconia with white gold posts.) Don't buy too much at once. Add one beautiful piece at a time, and see where that leads you.

Pres (with help from Bebe and others.)

More Perfect Outfits with Green

I think I just achieved "one perfect outfit" sort of using the Pres method in reverse. My question is: What do I look for next?

Sort of like another poster, I was looking for something to brighten the winter blahs, though I do live in sunny Florida! For a theatre date, I purchased an apple green silk trench and wore it open, with collar up, over my staple black lightweight wool trousers and a black knit shell. I added a mother of pearl pendant on a gold collar-bone choker ( my wedding rings and "good" watch are gold) and carried a dark gold clutch with beading in olive, copper, dark blue and tiny pearls, all very burnished. My shoes were black fabric. I had all these pieces, so the trench completed an outfit. I'm 5'8", 55 years old, dark blond hair and green eyes. I felt fabulous.

Now, I want to take the trench shopping, and I am at a loss where to start.

Thanks for your thoughts; this site has been so wonderful!

Caron

Yes, Caron: That sounds like one perfect outfit!
Let's see if we can spin the green silk trench around for a few more:

Look for some pink components to wear with the trench. A pink linen shirt and dark olive jeans; black patent flats. A pink eyelet skirt, white tank, pale tan sandals. Dusty pink would be gorgeous.

Light green will also support navy (navy wide legged, cuffed trousers, navy pumps; a white shirt (nautical, with the green over.) White peep-toes.

There's a print that's popular now that combines bright yellow, navy and green;

Print Skirt

And, since you are in Florida, don't forget Lilly
(Imagine this shirt, white pants, and your coat over.)

Also, remember that green is a perfect accent color to support a B&W outfit, or one that is based on a B&W floral or geometric print.

Congratulations on the perfect outfit, and here's to many more!

Pres

Hot Colors

Hi Pres,

I'm seeing so many beautiful brighter green spring coats, and I have been looking for a new rain/light weight coat for several years. I absolutely love the green styles I have seen, but I am not sure about the staying power of that color. Along the same vein, I like the pink patent shoes they have produced lately (which would look great with that green coat!), but I have the same concerns with the coat. What do you think?

-Siepres

Hi Siepres!

You have the right feeling about the Green coat; it's a very hot color, and next year, it will be last year's hot color. The pink shoes are a little more standard (and what a great combo!) but the style of the heel, toe, and profile will change anyway. The pink shoes will last Spring/Summer. You should wear them out!

If you want to take a flyer on such a great color for a coat, look for sales, buy the cheapest one, and know that it won't be around for long. Sometimes, it's best to go into something like this with a smaller item, like a patent bag in the latest color, and then move on when the time comes ( too soon.) Bangles, scarves, and sometimes, sweaters, are a great way to add the latest colors.

Pres

Coordinating Perfectly

Hey Pres,
I love The Pres Method for buying one perfect outfit. Can you address the subject of coordinating colors. I can match, but coordinating and using a pop of color is really hard for me.
Thanks!


I'll review The Pres Method: Start with the part of the outfit that is hardest to fit for you: the top, or the bottom; some folks start with shoes. Then, take that part (we'll assume it's the pants) over to the tops and find one perfect top that coordinates with the pants. The top must not ride up or gap, and it must end on the sweet spot on your hip. When you have the basic parts, take them over to shoes, and find the perfect ones. Have the bottom shortened (pin while wearing the outfit) for the shoes. Remember that we aren't stocking up on a bunch of versatile items; we're making one perfect outfit (for now.)

If you need a jacket over, try them on with the parts that you have. Hang the outfit in the closet, with all the parts in place (if you can bear not to wear it immediately.) When shopping, don't aim for a vague set of things that might look good one day with something you may have or might find. Assemble one perfect outfit that you want to wear right now.

Later, you can take your favorite part of the outfit shopping with you, and perhaps find another part for it. But another perfect part. Remember that we are always looking for one perfect outfit. A closet full of perfect outfits beats one jammed with sweaters, skirts and shoes that look just OK with one another.

Now, on to coordinating colors. It's trickier than matching, and that's why it looks so nice. There are color families that work together, once you get the hang of them.
And, there are tricky colors which should stand alone in outfits; the most famous one is bright red. If you use bright red for the clutch, don't add red shoes.

Although experienced pickers can mix many colors, there are some tips for beginners, too. First, if you add a print to your outfit (like leopard shoes) you can use the colors of the print for your other components: the leopard is made of brown, tan, black, or maybe other colors. You can echo these other colors in your ensemble: Black tights, a tan skirt, black sweater. I'd add a pop of red here (the bag?) but I'm an expert. It's always safe to use the colors of the print. BTW, you don't have to wear the print, you can use it to help you coordinate colors, and then leave it behind, if you want to.

Another technique is to notice what tones are in the color at hand. Purple is made of blue and red, so either of those can go into the ensemble; as can pink. If you are unsure, manufacturers often coordinate pieces for sale; ask the sales assistant "what was shown with this, please?"

Did that help any?

Winter Blahs

I am currently in the "blahs" I feel fat, old and ugly! I really don't think I am any of those, but I feel it! Help! How do I put in a punch of spring when it is 30 degrees, we just had a blizzard and I am always freezing at work? I am 5'4' 125 pounds, dark brown hair with caramel highlights and brown eyes, wear glasses. I am so happy to see you have this site, I always love your advice
Ginny

Ginny, it's asking a lot of Pres to solve the winter blahs, but I can do it! What you need is some cashmere in great colors (it's on sale now, too.)
Take a brown outfit, and drape a pink pashmina scarf over it. Fold the scarf so that it is a narrow ribbon, then fold in half again, (like the pages of book.) Place the scarf around the back of your neck, and pull the fringed ends through the loop. That will create an assymetrical knot. Choose a pink that works best for you; hot pink sounds about right, but you can go all the way down to dusty pink. Don't pick anything too pale. Yellow and turquoise work too, if they are your good colors.

Another trick is adding a bright cashmere shrug (bright purple), over an all black or black/gray outfit. Here's one Shrug. I like this over a collared shirt, not as shown, because the collar adds structure and snap. Since this one is in a subdued color, I'd wear a bright shirt under, like teal. Mix the pink and blue.

Try wearing a short sleeve tee with beading or sequin trim over a plain shirt, too. I have a few evening things that work for daytime, if they're layered over tailored outfits. And, one of my favorites is to tie a bright, or beaded sweater around my neck, sleeves forming a knot in the front. Another trick with a sweater is to pull the cowl down around your shoulders, exposing the entire top of the shirt worn under (it's cold, so we are layering today) with the cowl collar forming a straight line from shoulder to shoulder. Do this with a white shirt and a heavy black cowl neck; drop a lot of chunky chains over. Add some fitted cords, and you are warm (and hot.)

My winter boots this year are a very warm and waterproof shiny black patent with flat heels. I'm sorry that it's getting too warm for them, actually. Patterned tights have kept me warm this year, and oh the colors. I just added some in deep olive green, with a tiny cable pattern; on sale now, too. New tights are a really inexpensive way to brighten things up.

It will be Spring soon!

Dress for Authority

Hi Pres,

I'm going shopping this weekend and have a somewhat odd problem.

After a little over a year on my new job, I am experiencing some slippage in the respect I get from some of the people I have to work with. I am an advocate for a group of professional women. My work day includes meeting with them and often their managers, and sometimes attending political events. Many of the people I see are difficult, some are hostile.

Naturally, I am examining my behavior and manner of speaking to them all.

But as a big believer in appearance as a factor in many aspects of life, I've also taken a hard look and see that I have fallen into wearing pants and flat shoes, little jewelry, and letting my hair and makeup go a bit too casual. I am determined to change all that and go back to skirts and heels. I've scheduled an appointment for hair color and styling.

The shopping problem is: how to dress to establish authority and control (especially in the warm spring and summer) - even perhaps intimidate a little - and not look frumpish.

I'm nearly 60, short and roundish but hourglass shaped (size 12-16, depending), fair-skinned, reddish brown hair.

I've just gone through last year's clothes and can salvage only a light beige and a white jacket in terms of work clothes, so I need nearly everything new.

Thanks,
Gelinda

Hello Gelinda!

This is a perfect question. As you understand, your appearance does have an effect on your authority. And, there are several elements that are key in this, too.

Start with your eyebrows. Be sure that your brows are shaped perfectly for your eyes. Avoid a short "comma" with the thick part being near the nose, and the arch inward of the inside of the eye. The brow should be long enough, high enough, and the arch should be at least as far out as the outside margin of the iris (the colored part) of your eye; perhaps as far out as the outside corner of your eye. Use eyebrow mascara to cover gray. When using pencil to fill in missing parts, be sure to use many, many small strokes, not one thick one.

If you wear glasses, go for a solid frame in a bold color, and avoid a large round shape lens. An angular shape, with a horizontal axis, is better. We want those glasses to speak power.

Since you are doing your hair (good move) try for a style with straight, sharp lines, like a smooth, medium length bob with a straight edge all around. If you have curls or waves (don't add them) be sure that the ends of the hair are cut for a very straight, blunt line. Keep that auburn color burnished. Notice how many times I mentioned "straight"?

For clothes, there are two key elements in authoritative appearance: jackets, and shoes. The jacket is an essential part of this, and we will have to deal with it. Look for our favorite structured jacket with a visible waist. Avoid puff or gathered shoulders, and do not buy a jacket with short sleeves. For summer, look for cotton jackets, much like menswear. Menswear fabrics are best for showing authority. A pressed khaki poplin jacket, over a dark blue collared shirt with a navy or black cotton A-line skirt (not a gathered full skirt) will work for business casual; a black twill jacket is even better. If your office is business formal, get the suits, and wear them. If it's really too hot for a jacket, carry it outdoors, and wear it in A/C.

Dump all soft, pleated leather shoes, and look for a structured pump with a solid heel. No curvy kitten heels, please. Black and gray pumps are best; avoid the softer navy and brown.

For your bags and cases, remember straight lines, and structure. No hobos, no gathered sacs; and never, ever, carry a soft plastic bag from the grocery store. Transfer your purchases to a structured canvas bag with a contrasting bottom, perhaps with your initials embroidered on the side, in bold block letters.

We'll get 'em, Gelinda!
Pres

Skirt Lengths

I've seen that dresses are getting shorter and shorter. I'm 44 and 5'7" and love to wear the latest styles. What do you think are the best length skirts and dresses for me to wear? 

The mini dress has certainly returned. And, at 5'7" you aren't going to get a longer look out of them, either. Remember that just-at-the-knee length is the best length for most legs. 

There are creative ways to wear shorter hems: with tights, and with flats (or both.) Minis look good with flats at all ages, and should not be worn with pointy mid-heel pumps. A very high round toe wedge and a mini is a fashion forward look. There are sparkly medium weight tights that could work with a (modest) mini for a dressy look with dressy flats. If you have the legs for it.

Sophisticated mini dresses will work for you, too. Here's one.

 

BTW, other short looks, like "walking shorts" will support bare legs and high heels, too. 

Shoes for Red Trench

Hi Pres,
I'm looking for a shoe for spring to go with a red trench coat and jeans.

I like all sorts of shoes. Although the stiletto will always be out there, I'm not adversed to a chunkier "cuban" heel. Easy to walk on, you know! :-)

Vava

How about Maryjanes, with chunky heels like these?
I like them in creme for spring. Look at the open heel, too.
These will support boot cuts, but would also be great with skinny jeans.


The shoes will go well with a skirt, too. And here are some with lower heels: Note the higher strap on these. Are you adventurous?
For a fashion forward look, wear footless sheers in a tinted creme shade that matches the shoe, with the stocking ending just above the strap on the MJ, so that your bare foot top shows.

I'll bet you didn't think of MJs, hmm?

Pres