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POWER DRESSING
I’ve heard a lot about the importance of dressing well at work, but does my day-to-day attire really matter in the grand scheme of things? What should I consider adding to my wardrobe to make sure I’m not out-of-date? Every day, women are faced with a dilemma of what to wear to the office. Whether we like it or not, how you dress not only signals to the world what kind of work you do, but also how seriously you take it. In business, you dress to have an impact on your colleagues and clientele. Therefore, your daily attire signals your authority, experience and ambition. If your clothes don’t convey the message that you are competent, reliable and self-confident, nothing that you say or do will overcome the negative signals that your wardrobe sends.
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So how do you strengthen your image? Stay clear of a fashion rut by keeping up with trends, while maintaining a classic look. A wrap dress is a great option as it’s flattering on all shapes and sizes. Kate Middleton has given this style a royal stamp of approval and set off a fashion frenzy around the world by stepping out in a Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress. DVF is renowned for her signature wrap dresses and this bright blue wrap that I’m wearing can be worn to the office or for a night out. Don’t forget to accessorize your work uniform with a statement bag and always have a tailored blazer on hand. A crisp white blazer is a fresh alternative to the traditional year-round black option. The term ‘power dressing’ is about honing a professional look that is current and portrays an image that you’re resilient enough to manage whatever is thrown your way. p
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PURCHASE ALEX’S TWO LOOKS AT NORDSTROM: ABOVE: Diane von Furstenberg Petal Dreams Wrap
Dress $458.00, Gold Michael Kors watch $300.00, Kate Spade Blue Jean Pumps, Ted Baker dark blue purse $325.00. PREVIOUS PAGE: Diane von Furstenberg lemon gold blouse $251.00, Tory Burch Callie skinny pant $240.00, Steve Madden sunglasses $38.00, Sam Eldelman nude strappy heels $168.00, long necklace $205.00, yellow bracelets $36.00 nordstrom.com p
Yellow Scarf $12
PHOTOGRAPHY: Valerie Keeler, Valberg Imaging Inc. valbergimaging.com HAIR: Stefania Capovilla 17 OTTAWALIFE JULY/AUGUST 2015