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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
Summer Clothing: Are Sleeveless Shirts Ok?Question: I live in the south, so it is rather hot during the summer. Does this change the types of clothing that are appropriate for work. Is it ok to wear some sleeveless shirts as long as I have a sweater or jacket to put on when I go into meetings? And what about hose. I typically wear it whenever I wear skirts, but it traps in the heat.Vicky
Answer: Dear Vicky, Think of a man wearing a sleeveless shirt to work. What kind of thoughts would you have about him? Would you respect him? It is no different for a woman. And yes, I am fully aware that sleeveless attire is exceptionally fashionable for women. I wear sleeveless in my social and off time, but never in a business environment. Isn't your office air-conditioned? Most office temperatures are actually quite chilly. It's the walk from the car and getting into a steaming car that has been idle in the sun for hours that creates the biggest comfort problems. Or you may be a commuter and walk to a train, or be outdoors at lunch, etc. and experience heat overload there. Layers work great for these types of situations. Take off the top layer for the drive, the ride home, or the walk at lunch. Fabric choices also affect your comfort level. Avoid heavy polyesters in the summer as that fabric traps in your body heat. Lightweight cotton, linen, silk, even tropical weight wool will be far cooler; those fabrics breather well. Opt for lighter colors during this time as they reflect the heat rather than drawing it as dark colors do. Hosiery is another item that gets discarded in the heat. The important factor here is to check your company's dress code. Some companies make seasonal adjustments; others do not. If you care about your career, you want to comply with the code regardless of your personal preferences. Most companies require hosiery (socks or hose) year round, especially when wearing a short skirt. Some allow mules (close-toes/open heels worn without hosiery) in the summer when worn with pants or long skirts. Most companies do not allow any form of sandals. If the shoe is open in the toe area and the heel area, it qualifies as a sandal. If your company allows open-toe shoes (pumps), be sure to get regular pedicures. Unkempt toes do no bode well for raises and promotions. You will always appear more professional when wearing hose or socks coordinated with your outfit and shoes. Although I do understand about the heat as I live in Texas, hosiery remains a staple - a non-negotiable item - in my daily professional attire. Just as when a man does not wear socks with his shoes, a woman's bare legs or feet convey leisure time. While your comfort is essential to your productivity, do not allow heat or fashion trends to compromise your professionalism and your success potential.
Best of luck to you,
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