How to be "cool" this summer.

One of the most disturbing things I’ve seen in my corporate world:  I arrive at our office picnic and—BAM!  There is my boss sprawled out on a chaise lounge, with his knobby knees pointing out like joints on a broken chicken leg!  He wasn’t injured mind you.  He was wearing shorts, and I don’t mean Bermuda shorts.  That’s right, short-shorts!  I then proceed to the barbecue area, and there stands the newest management trainee wearing hot pants (short-shorts) and a tube top!  Yes, she did catch my eye, as well as every male co-worker in the office.  But, it will be hard to take her seriously on Monday!

Let’s focus on these short-shorts examples, as a way of illustrating the importance of always dressing for the occasion, and your figure’s pros and cons.  Whether you are attending a company picnic, on a retreat, or summer barbecue, you are interacting with adults and must dress accordingly.  Follow these tips to make you “cool” this summer:

Avoid Short-Shorts!

If you don’t have the legs for shorts (and even if you do), the length should be around the knee, not around the thigh.  Remember, your clothes speak volumes about you.  Don’t destroy your image over one outdoor event.

Men, Wear Linen Trousers or Khakis, with loafers and no socks. 

This is a perfect alternative to shorts.  You will look so cool, no one will even ask you if you’re hot!

Women, Wear Cropped Pants Or Capris. 

Finding the perfect fit is imperative.  Cropped pants should end at the smallest part of the leg—typically 1 to 3 inches above the ankle.  Flared cuts balance out the hips, while straight or tapered legs accentuate curves.  Aim for clean, smooth lines and a less-is-more philosophy toward detailing.  If you are on the short or heavy side, wearing full-length pants will be more flattering.

Tank Tops Are Taboo. 

Men, we don’t want to see your armpits.  Ladies, most of us have a little extra “wing” on the back of our arm that we don’t want to advertise.  A little sleeve can go a long way to looking your best.

Camouflage Perspiration Wetness. 

If you know you perspire, wear very light colors (i.e., white or beige) or very dark colors (i.e., black, brown, navy) to camouflage the wetness.  Botox injections will help with this problem, or you can spray antiperspirant under your breasts.  Men can also wear an undershirt, and women can wear a cotton sports bra, to absorb the moisture before it bleeds through the shirt.
   

Wear Color. 

It is summer - celebrate and lighten up!  Get out of your rut of wearing black, black and more black.  Select colors that are flattering to your skin tone and go for it!  Consider: orange, purple, pink, lime green or delicious watermelon.
   

Walk in the Right Shoes. 

There is a time and place for most styles of shoes, but never a place for dirty, ragged, scuffed, creased or outdated pairs.  Ladies, sandals or modest heels are attractive if you have a fresh pedicure (although, strappy open-toed heels are typically never acceptable for the office).  If your activity involves a lot of walking or standing, wear more comfortable styles.  We don’t want to see you limping around by the end of the event, or worse yet, going barefoot.  Men, leather or suede loafers, boat shoes (i.e., Top Siders), and canvas deck styles are great.  If you select an open sandal, make sure you have a fresh pedicure. 

Dress for the Body you are in Today.

Your body has served you tirelessly and fearlessly for years.  Celebrate it, accept it now, just as it is today.  Vow not to put off enjoying and dressing your body fabulously as it is now.  No more waiting to lose those 10 pounds before you will buy a new suit/ensemble.  Wear a size larger to look a size smaller.

Be Kind.

“To cultivate kindness is a valuable part of the business of life.”  Samuel Johnson   When you are having an awful, no-good day . . . resist the temptation to leave the house without your makeup, or a clean shave, or wearing clothes that are not attractive and comfortable.  Tomorrow is another day.  The compliments you receive on rotten days are an especially sweet treat.  When you don’t feel your best, make sure you look your best – you will feel better!

Remember, wearing a pleasing ensemble will only bring you comfort, personal pleasure, and instant confidence, but it can also get you a promotion, your next sale, or help you win your case.  Happy dressing.

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Do you or your employees need help with accomplishing an A+ “business casual” look?  Imagine…The Possibilities offers both group seminars and private coaching on this topic.  Don’t let your image impact your professional and personal success. Call now to sign up.

Kay teaches people how to improve their image to enhance their professional and personal success.  Recognized as a corporate consultant, motivational speaker, educator, and transformation artist, with 20 years of business experience.  Kay challenges people to step out of their comfort zone so they can accelerate change and improve in the areas of appearance, self-esteem, and etiquette. Kay has used her energetic and caring style to empower thousands of people to reach new levels of professional and personal excellence.  Kay can be contacted at (714) 665-8866, kay@kayhunter.info, www.kayhunter.info.