Does the Suit Really Make the Wo (Man)?

Q: I am mocked for my stylish and expansive wardrobe by the Vice President of Human Resources at my Company because "I am single and have nothing better to do with my money," she says. I certainly dress appropriately for a career woman and was wondering if I am committing a fashion faux pas by dressing too nicely or if she is just a catty case?

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but your VP might actually be onto something more serious than you think. While there's nothing wrong with wearing the latest "it items" du jour, you might have to tone it down a notch if you are looking to climb the corporate ladder. Generally, those who work in more creative fields (i.e. advertising or publishing) wouldn't be chastised for dressing like Miranda Priestley in the film The Devil Wears Prada.

Take a look around the office and ask yourself, "am I totally out of line compared to what my colleagues are wearing?" If the answer is yes, then you might want to save your head-to-toe Prada ensemble strictly for after-work functions. A final word of advice: your co-workers (and VP!) might actually be intimated by your wardrobe choices. But then again, if it bothers them (and you) that much, it might be time to find another job!

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