Dressing For Success

Ladies, let’s talk about image. Yea, that’s right, the clothes you are wearing right this minute. Do they really speak to who you are? One of my favorite silly eCards read something like this... “Just curious... what part of that outfit made you look in the mirror and say, 'YES. This is how I choose to represent myself today.’?” I feel like saying this every time I walk into a mall. I don’t, of course, in fear of being beat over the head with a bedazzled fanny pack.

I received this in my inbox from my friend Deborah Stuart, metaphysics expert and owner of HighChi Jewelry. If you ever wished that your jewelry had more purpose than just looking stylish, here's what you've been looking for. I love how beautiful her pieces are! And how powerful!

I don't normally share a lot about shopping sites, but one in particular impressed me so much that I have to tell you all about it. The site Novica.com is an international shopping site affiliated with National Geographic with a mission "to give artists and artisans around the world a global platform to express their true artistic talents, to spur their creativity" and to bring that talent to your doorstep.

For some women (even me) changing their look can be a scary thing. We get comfortable with what we see in the mirror and assume that others feel the same way when they look at us. So, why should we change? For me it’s about being creative and allowing self-expression. Your reason may be something completely different.

Truth be told, no two women are exactly alike. We don't look alike, sound alike, act alike, or share the same fashion sense. Because of this wonderful fact, I decided to do a search for some unique fashions that can be categorized for different style and body types. Just remember, it's okay to cross over into someone else's category. You just might find you are more versatile than you thought you were.

1. Do add a little glitz to your usual work clothes; beaded skirt or cardigan, sequined scarf, or a rhinestone belt will do the trick. (Photo of Embellished Cardigan; available at Spiegel.com, $119). 2. Do buy an orange or hot pink purse to add a punch of color to any outfit.

1. Do pay attention to where you walk; I once caught my heel in a drainage grate. If only everyone could be rescued by a handsome doctor when they step in a hole. (Photo from Columbia Pictures, The Wedding Planner). 2. Do be honest with a friend if she needs to change something about her outfit. You wouldn't want her to let you go out in a too-tight dress or a shade of lipstick that makes your teeth look yellow. It's just good Karma.

1. Do be sexy without being too revealing. 2. Don't think you have to only wear women's cologne; give these men's scents a try (Calvin Klein Euphoria Men eau de toilette ($65, at Macys.com, Sean John I Am King eau de toilette$74 at, Macys.com, Gucci by Gucci Pour Homme eau de toilette spray$70 at Saks.com).

Hey, there's nothing wrong with rockin' to your favorite oldie tune from a bygone era, but let me give you nostalgic gals some advice, keep your music, but bring your hair and makeup into the new millennium.

1. Don't think that athletic apparel has to be boring and frumpy. Take a look at these lines of sexy, fun work out duds: Margarita, Bella Mia, Stella McCartney for Adidas, and Kimsbodywear.com.

1. Do try a new hairstyle...go ahead chop it all off; short is hot, hot, hot! 2. Do shop at my new favorite store called Papaya...it's inexpensive, too.

1. Do explore fun, temporary hair changes like, Jessica Simpson's Hairuwear clip-in extensions. Hairuwear.com/Jessica 2. Don't underestimate the power of a smile!

1. Do add a couple of frilly blouses to your wardrobe this season. It's a girlie world this year! 2. Don't hate me, but the center part and ponytails are both in.

1. Do try to mix brights for a fun, energetic look. 2. Don't think that embroidery is just for grandma; it's on everything this season.

1. Do wear what flatters your body type, not what you wish did. 2. Do yourself a favor, buy a good bra...in the right size.