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 Professional Hairstyles Question: I am about to start a new career in an office that calls for business professional dress. My hair is straight, healthy, and a few inches below my shoulders. Although I am not willing to chop off my hair, I do realize that I need to find a tailored "up-do" to wear to work. HELP! I am horrible at styling my hair, as I typically pride myself in keeping it natural and healthy. While it is unprofessional to have a mane hanging all around your shoulders, it can be difficult to feel confident in an unfamiliar hairstyle. Any suggestions?| Janic Answer: Without seeing you (and your hair) in person or viewing a photograph of you, it is challenging for me to give you a precise "up-do" suggestion. However, there are some guidelines to follow, as many up-do styles are appropriate for the gym or bedroom, not the office. Do not use any large banana clips, or that type of clip to hold your hair up. To achieve a professional effect, you cannot just push it up any old way and clip it. I am amazed at the number of women who blindly (using no mirror) just push up their hair and secure it with an atrociously large clip. They look like they are ready to do house cleaning or go jogging, not conduct business. A pinned tailored style, such as a French roll or twist, is highly professional. You can also pull your hair back at the nape of your neck. Secure it with a tailored scrunchy (or metal clip) that coordinates with your outfit yet is in a businesslike color (no hot pink). On weekends, practice putting your hair up in varying styles. Get accustomed to the way you look with it up. Give yourself compliments. This should handle any discomfort or confidence issues. If your hair is truly no longer than three inches below your shoulders, it falls within the professional range for hair lengths. If it is longer, I recommend that you cut it to that length. Then you can wear it down without sacrificing your professionalism. And you also have the flexibility of putting it up or pulling it back. Best of luck to you, Sherry Maysonave Also see: How much makeup should I wear at work? Ask your image questions Personal Power: A case study from 'Casual Power'