Top 10 Fashion Faux Pas

In case you weren’t sure, there is nothing wrong with taking pride in how you look. The norm in Portland seems to be to dress down and blend in because it’s comfortable. Consequently, everyone seems to be wearing something nearly exactly the same. I hear from clients that they want to stand out from “the sea of black suits” or “the sea of Aritzias” or “the sea of frumpyness” and so forth. (Apparently, we are nearly drowning!) Once they update their wardrobes to reflect their brilliance and personality, they reach the tipping point and get noticed. People get promoted, finally lose the weight, meet a new mate, or even move abroad! They are happy because not only do they look great, they feel great… and that is the most important part. Confidence is the best accessory!

Researchers from NYU found that we make eleven major decisions about one another in the first seven seconds of meeting. (Humans can’t help it, we’re wired that way). Therefore your wardrobe will effect the opinion potential partners, your colleagues, industry leaders, or new clients have of you. Let’s make the effects in your favor!

Start by avoiding some common fashion blunders. I’ve constructed a thoughtful list of my top 10 faux pas to avoid so you can keep well on your way to standing out and making a positive first impression!

1. Shoes In Disrepair.

Make a relationship with a great cobbler or learn how to take good care of your shoesies at home. The last thing you want is your high-end client or future boss to see your shoes falling apart.

2. No-Show Socks…That Show!

Go barefoot instead. There is a better solution for sweaty feet. Wear materials that breathe (natural leather) and invest in a cedar shoe mold to absorb excess moisture. Even the little lace numbers pictured above aren’t cute. The concept couldn’t be more clear- Don’t show ’em!

3. Lazy Girl’s Ponytail.

Adolescents can get away with a quick “pony”, but a woman over the age of 25 needs to make it sleek or abandon the look all together. Coiffed hair is better for business.

4. Platform Peep-toe Patent Leather Heels… At Work.

I think we can all agree, these are a little too “Belle Du Jour” for the workplace. Save them for the bedroom. And if you can’t walk in them, toss them out, it’s not sexy.

5. Fashion Tape Failures.

We all saw Robin Wright’s boob tape, right? She is a gorgeous, elegant woman. Not to mention relatively small. Why not go braless? Don’t get me wrong, I love fashion tape as it can be the perfect answer to a tricky silhouette, but when it’s highly likely you’ll be caught on camera or up on stage, avoid any chance of a fashion emergency with risky illusions.

6. Hanger Straps Are Actually Not Helpful.

It would seem hanger straps are better at busting out of your armpit than hanging your special-needs garments. (Another reason to love velvet hangers, they provide more traction!). Cut them off and keep your company’s attention where it counts- focused on your beautiful face!

7. Uggs and/or Yoga Pants.

Doesn’t it go without saying? Only in freezing temps are Uggs appropriate to wear outside of the house. And unless you’re a personal trainer or Pilates instructor, yoga pants are not appropriate either. Slipping into a routine with these bad habits will only bring you an unpleasant surprise later when it’s time to put real pants back on, and submit to the reality of our mild climate. You never know when you’ll bump in to a potential client… be prepared, looking and feeling your best!

8. Baggy Knees Tucked Into Boots.

Baggy pants tucked into tall boots is an unflattering look for anyone. Fitted dark denim worn with a leather ankle boot, cute blouse, and cuffed blazer is a much better look if you’re dying to bust out the jeans for casual Fridays.

9. Faux Bling.

While these styles can serve a purpose, it might be best to reserve them for the weekends. Pair your trendy scores along side higher quality jewelry or stick to your one, really amazing signature piece. Non-precious metals can discolor your skin or cause an allergic reaction- Yuck! Plus, who needs a drawer full of flavor-of-the-month stuff you don’t really use.

10. Labeling Yourself!

Sure it’s a polo or a button up, but just because it’s a “nice” shirt, doesn’t mean you need to endorse “Abercrombie New York” like it’s your family crest. Be sure to watch for monograms when you’re buying clothes and avoid them. Unless you work for that particular company, why brand yourself?

Bonus! Invest In Your Power Suit!

…In closing I’ve saved a little bonus tip. My most sacred tip of all and something I encourage every professional to do for themselves; Find your power suit! (Just be sure to remove the glaring ‘X-stitch’ that suiting manufacturers use to keep vents in place!) This is a new era. Outdated, boxy suits be gone!

You have an opportunity to set yourself apart through your personal style. You are your brand these days, I promise it will make a difference, and you may even have a little fun in the process!