Ask Mary Lou

Each month, Mary Lou answers (and we post!) a fashion question from one of our site visitors. If you have something you want to know to help pull together your wardrobe with style and confidence, ask away!

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For October, 2004:

Q: I am working on an article entitled "10 Ways to Enhance Your Professional Image” for a magazine serving professional therapists. I would like to quote you in the article. One of the "10 Ways" is personal appearance. Keep in mind that some therapists, such as occupational and physical therapists, must wear clothing that they can "get dirty in," sometimes working on the floor when giving their patients therapy. The question is: How can they still keep a professional appearance without dressing up?

A: : When helping our clients who are therapists build a professional wardrobe, we talk a lot about the nature of their jobs, who their clients are and how they like to present themselves when conducting their practices before we ever step foot in a store. Having your professional goals clearly defined and then matching a wardrobe to compliment these objectives is key to dressing well no matter what you do on a day-to-day basis.

For many therapists, comfort is key. In fact, dressing more casually can help these professionals be more approachable with their clients. It's important that they don't dress too casually in order to create appropriate business boundaries. It's also easier to connect with clients when you feel good about yourself first and are wearing clothes that fit and flatter you from the inside out. It is also a sign of respect to others when you take the time to be sure all of the elements of your wardrobe are neat and pulled together.

Starting with some dark base pieces (pants, skirts, jackets and sweater sets) and adding a touch of color and signature style through tops and jewelry, typically gets these professionals out the door quickly and feeling good. Dark clothing is smart for those who need to get down on the floor while giving their patients therapy. Black, for instance, hides wear and tear, is price neutral and is fairly easy to coordinate. Today's modern fabrics allow for a whole lot of comfort without giving up personal style.

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