A couple of postings ago I was at a basketball tournament and began my list of nine style secrets.  I wrote about the first 3 and thought it is now time to revisit the next three.  These come on the heels of another basketball tournament weekend.  I really do some of my best mental work at basketball tournaments. I have a lot of time to people watch and there are a lot of people to watch.

Let’s get started.   Feel free to look back at the previous post if you need a reminder of Style Secrets 1-3.

4.  Define your shape with fitted underwear. This is such an important step that many people miss. Take time to find bras that fit and provide the support that you need.  It is well worth the time, effort and money to get properly fitted, as most women choose the wrong size and end up with bulges or sags in the wrong places.  Breast can be your greatest asset or your worst, depending on what you use as shapewear.  Did you know that over 90% of women wear the wrong bra size?  Don’t be part of the statistic.  Most major department stores such as Nordstrom’s, Sak’s, Macy’s and  Victoria’s Secret offer free fittings.

5.  Choose the right accessories. You can change the look of an outfit with the right accessories but you need to know what looks good for your shape and size.  Some necklaces accentuate a large bust while others may not look too good on someone with a short neck.   Shoes can also impact your look.   The right shoe can make short legs look longer.  Purses and handbags are also an important part of an outfit.  There are styles for casual outings, corporate choices and evening outings.  You should also consider color, fabric, style and functionality when selecting a handbag.

6. Give your wardrobe a makeover. This doesn’t mean acting out a “What Not to Wear” episode by throwing out all of your current clothes.  Most of us have numerous items that we still wear but maybe we need to update them with different accessories.    Your wardrobe should have a few core essential items such as a good pair of fitted jeans, a well tailored suit and a classic dress. With these core items you can mix and match jackets, shoes and tops to spice up your look.

Follow these quick and easy Style Secrets and you will be on your way to looking fashionable, stylish and confident.

About the Author: Valerie Hatcher of Your Total Image works with professional women who enjoy clothing and understand the importance of their image to their success.   She teaches them how to dress for success-enabling them to look fashionable, stylish and confident.   Visit Your Total Image at www.yourtotalimage.net and sign up for the monthly newsletter filled with tips.

Summer is really upon us.  It’s hard to believe that we have already had days with temperatures of 100 degrees or more.  When the temperature gets hot should our business clothes change?  Sure they should!  But, we still need to maintain our credibility.  Remember, you can’t be taken seriously wearing a halter top and shorts.

Here are a few business wear items that will fit nicely in your warm weather wardrobe.

Lighter Jacket:  Does your job call for a jacket or suit?  If so, try a summer weight fabric like linen or silk. You’ll be able to look professional while remaining cool.

A-Line Skirt: A simple A-line skirt looks great on most body types and is much cooler than pants on hot days.

Collared Dress: Try a shirt dress or a wrap dress for a light, breezy and professional look.

Classic Sheath: This dress is acceptable in any season.  For summer try one that is sleeveless.  You can wear it with a light jacket in case you work in an environment where sleeveless is not appropriate.

Cropped Pants: These are great in a business casual environment.  They can be dressed up with heels and a jacket or dressed down with nice sandals. Either way, they are a nice alternative.

Slingback Pumps:  For those who must wear a closed toe shoe to work, these are a great alternative to the traditional pump.

Summer Bag or Briefcase: Try something light for the summer.  How about a lighter colored leather bag, a straw tote or even a clutch?

Regardless of what you wear, the key to remember is that your goal is to keep cool while looking professional.  We may be tempted to wear less during the summer season but do not risk your credibility by showing too much skin.  Remember, maintaining a good image is very important to your career.

About the Author: Valerie Hatcher of Your Total Image teaches women how to dress for success-enabling them to look fashionable, stylish and confident.  She shows them how to build an effective personal brand to achieve social and professional success.  Visit Your Total Image at www.yourtotalimage.net and sign up for the monthly newsletter filled with tips.