“Eventually you’ll build a professional wardrobe free of logos and busy prints and the cost can be spread over time… If you purchase at yard sales, thrift shops, consignment stores, or borrow from friends and family, the cost is considerably reduced.  Fashion repeats itself.  Even stars who can certainly afford to purchase new, buy used for the “vintage look.”  You can, too.  The key is to think of creative ways to cut costs.”                                                                                 
                                                                              -  Modeling at Any Age
                                                                                 Ro Martinez, Copyright 2008, Seaside Publishing 

A new year brings with it promises of better conditions or a better life.  This gives you inspiration to make small changes. A new job, a promotion, a raise or additional benefits are some things we aspire toward.

In this economy it is more important than ever to make a positive first impression. That impression is created before you even open your mouth.  The image you display matters to a potential employer especially if your position involves heavy public contact where you represent the company and you are the first person clients or customers see. This is doubly true if you work in sales or in a reception area.  The competition when applying for a position or to simply keep your existing one is greater than ever.  Attorneys, financial advisors or those in corporate positions are not immune because clients will judge you on your appearance.  Unfair as this may be, it is a reality.

For young people entering the workforce for the first time, without experience to offer a potential employer, the image you convey is especially important.  Your wardrobe can set you apart as someone who is mature with much potential.  Many young people enter the workforce with a position in retail, where dress and grooming is priority. 

I don’t recommend jeans for job interviews, unless the job is in a warehouse or a very casual setting.  A denim skirt may be the answer if you are looking for something comfortable.  All You magazine offers this great advice: “A denim skirt looks a lot dressier than jeans, but it’s just as easy to wear.  You can keep it casual by adding a T-shirt and flip-flops, or make it polished by wearing a pretty sweater or tunic and a pair of sandals.”

Wardrobe ideas for young people:
.     Khaki pants, white cotton button down shirt and a simple sweater vest (see photo of Crystal).
.     Black dress pants, bright colored cardigan over a t-shirt and several long necklaces.
.     Long sweater or tunic top over slim leggings and a long scarf wrapped around the neck.
.     For young men, khaki slacks and a dress shirt with or without a tie, depending upon the potential job.
  
A corporate setting is more structured, allowing for less flexibility in dress.  The required wardrobe is generally more costly and may take some time to build.  Purchasing good quality pieces and learning to properly care for your garments will help them last.  Whether your office is all business or business casual, you can shop at discount and department stores taking advantage of the after-season sales.  Consignment stores and yard sales are also options that should not be dismissed. You do not need to spend your entire paycheck to look good.  If you do not have a variety of suits for each day of the week, a few tops and accessories to mix and match will make the same suit look entirely different. 

Wardrobe ideas for professionals in the corporate world:
.     Pinstripe black or navy blue skirt suit with minimal accessories.
.     Pant suit in a neutral color such as taupe or grey worn with a soft blouse to add a splash of color.
.     Simple a-line dress, dark tights with matching boots and a silk scarf around the neck.
.     For young men, two sport coats or sports coat and a suit, with a variety of slacks and dress shirts.

Moms or seniors re-entering the workforce have it more difficult because you may have been out of the loop for several years.  If this is the case, your working wardrobe may be outdated.  You may have had a corporate position where suits were the norm and now you seek a part-time position where dress is more casual.  Examine your wardrobe.  Perhaps simple changes can make it possible for you to look presentable without having to invest in a new working wardrobe.  See below for suggestions.
If you can't salvage your wardrobe because it no longer fits or your new position requires a uniform, recycle it by donating your wardrobe to a charity making it a tax right off.  Giving it to family or friends who can benefit from it is another option or you may decide to take it to a consignment shop where they can sell the garments earning you extra $$.   
Wardrobe ideas for moms or seniors returning to the workforce:
.     If you had pant suits, wear the pants with a light weight sweater.  Tthe jacket over casual pants and a cotton button down-shirt. 
.     Cotton or corduroy pants with easy to put on, no-iron, no fuss gauze or spandex tops.
.     A pencil skirt paired with a tank top and colorful accessories.

Ideally research the company before you go on your interview and find out what their dress code is.  It's best to err on the side of caution and dress conservatively.  After the first day of work you can see if you need to make any adjustments.

Try to have your outfit clean and pressed the night before your interview or workday so that in the morning you are relaxed and more confident, knowing you are well prepared for the day ahead.

Periodically evaluating your wardrobe can also be beneficial if you want to improve your image, put your best foot forward and be the best-dressed employee in your work place! 

With over 20 years experience as a successful model and actress, Ro Martinez is the author of Modeling At Any Age.
www.modeling-beginningtobooking.com
Photo credits: rosskrisonphotography.com
susanjeffersphotography.com