Fight Winter Doldrums With Color

Fashion and weather go together, but you never have to have a gloomy day this season if you spark up your wardrobe in colorful hues.Winter apparel should be more than dreary black, gray, brown, or dark green. Wools, cashmeres, and thicker fabrics are available in happy sorbet colors of hot pink, lime green, orange, blue, and even yellow. Styles that were once considered juvenile are now high fashion for execs.Women wearing pink reflects power and aqua suggests authority. Men with tangerine or purple accent ties emanate confidence and strength. Don’t carry the attitude of gray, cloudy skies into the office. Instead, wear the beauty of spring with clothes in cheery colors that will energize.Whether wearing light shades with bright accents, or bright shades with toned down layers or accessories, you will find that your wardrobe can be happy and still be serious.Paisley prints in fabulous pinks and greens in ties or shirts can be paired with corduroy pants and skirts. Women can add a silk camisole or sash, or possibly a velvet accessory.An outrageous fluorescent skirt worn with a traditional cardigan layered over a simple T-shirt or tank keeps you bright yet in tune with the office. On casual day, pair crisp jeans with a melon sweater and a colorful belt. And don’t shy away from the delicious flavors of fashionable sneakers or pumps. Soft strawberry reds, avocado greens, and mustard yellows even come in loafers and can add sunshine to your wardrobe.For the fashion fearful, try a colorful trench coat or watchband to add some zest to the workday doldrums. Tasteful and traditional – blended with exuberance – will keep you and others in the office smiling.Your boss will be sure to comment, and, maybe he or she will even go so far as buy you lunch!Letters have been pouring in, so let’s get to this week’s selections:Dear Jen:We have a relaxed casual day with lots of urban wear and logo apparel. Are baseball caps okay since they are so cool?– Billy, Livingston, N.J.Dear Billy:Baseball-style caps are being worn everywhere these days and probably are okay in the copier room, but remove it before a meeting in the board room. While your attire reflects your individuality, it does also speak about your professionalism, so if you wear a celebrity or slogan logo, make it fun but not controversial.Dear Jen:Is it in fashion to wear black shirts with white ties? I’d also like to know if it is okay to wear gold tone sport jackets?– Richard, Amityville, N.Y.Dear Richard:It all depends on what “scene” you’re trying to be part of. Since good fashion means current styles that flatter your body shape, I suggest you check out men’s fashion magazines and watch celebrity television programs. They may give you some clues as to “what’s hot and what’s not” for your lifestyle and physique.Dear Jen:What is an acceptable number of personal photos to be displayed in an office? An associate recently commented on my bridal and new baby pictures on my credenza, which has made me self-conscious. Any ideas about picture fashion?– Gina, New York CityDear Gina:Unless, your employer has a stated policy, there is no arbitrary rule on how to personalize your own office or space, but be courteous. Don’t flood your desk or shelf space with photos and memorabilia in an area that is regularly visited by your co-workers. Remember, your office is a place of business, so keep the decor appropriate.Ms. Silano Foy is president of eFashion Solutions, LLC on the Web at www.efashionsolutions.com, and has been a consultant in the fashion industry for more than 10 years. Send questions to styleforsuccess@aol.com.

Fight Winter Doldrums With Color

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