Ask the Image Expert Sherry Maysonave is the founder and president of Empowerment Enterprises, one of America's leading communication-image firms. Sherry conducts corporate seminars and coaches executives, professionals, and politicians in achieving excellence in communication and image. She is also the author of Casual Power: How to Power Up your Nonverbal Communication and Dress Down for Success Everyday Attire Question: I sell cosmetics (Avon) part-time. What type of outfit would be appropriate to wear when I'm out in public? I never know when someone will ask about my business, but I don't want to look too dressy because I'm just out shopping or at the park with my young kids. Please help—I really want to make a great first impression. Emcgerr Answer: As an Avon representative, you are in the beauty business. To attract greater sales and long-term customers to you, strive to look as attractive as possible—stylish and impeccably groomed—whenever you are out, including when at the park with your kids. You can create a smart, crisp look even when you’re dressed casually. For example, let’s say that you normally wear jeans, a T-shirt (or sweatshirt), and sneakers to take your kids to the park. Forget the T-shirt or sweatshirt look and spice up your jeans with a turtleneck (or a crisp blouse) and perhaps even add a leather vest. Wear sharp-looking ankle boots (soft-sole style) instead of sneakers. Wear a stylish belt, earrings, and of course, makeup. Speaking of vests, they are back in vogue, particularly the sporty styles. Corduroy is also fashionable this fall. It is a casual fabric and is sometimes washable; check the label. When you’re out shopping, corduroy skirts worn with sweaters and knee boots can look quite chic when the color and fit of all garments are flattering. Thin-wale corduroy is generally more slenderizing than wide-wale styles. Matte-jersey is another great fabric for stay-at-home moms as it is usually washable. It can look chic when put together in a style that compliments your body type. Matte-jersey is usually available in pants, skirts (long or short), tunics, cardigans, shells, and a variety of top styles. I understand that washable fabrics are essential when dealing with children on a daily basis; however, be sure to integrate at least a few other dressier fabrics into your overall wardrobe. The major key to any attractive image is looking well coordinated, well groomed, and appropriate for the occasion. Without a crystal ball to discern the details of your body-type, height, coloring, etc., it is difficult to recommend precise outfits for you. I suggest that you read my book, Casual Power, as it has a great number of illustrations that can help you with the nuances of assembling casual separates into a chic, dressed-down look. Many of the outfits depicted in the photographs and drawings are targeted to an office environment, but the principles of coordinating outfits apply to more casual clothing too. The book has a wealth of information that can help you succeed with your Avon business and to help your customers achieve greater success with their image as well. Best of luck to you, Sherry Maysonave Also see: The law firm I work for just adopted business casual dress policy. What should I wear? Should I buy new post-pregnancy clothes? Ask your image questions Personal Power: A case study from 'Casual Power'