Dressing for Your White House Moments
What do you do when a client calls and says, "I have been invited
to a breakfast at the White House next week. Can you pick out some
dresses for me to choose from for the big day?" That happened to me last
week and after I did a happy dance and attempted some high-five
selfies, I asked my client a list of questions before heading to my go
to boutiques and department stores. Here are a few things to consider
for your own White House Moments:
1. Will the event be inside or outside?
2. Are you being honored or recognized in some way?
3. Does the event have a theme?
4. How many people are expected to attend?
5. What time of day will the event be held?
Each networking function, special event or, in this case White House affair, is an opportunity for you to expand your brand to new connections and reinforce your brand to those that you know. Think about the message that you want others to take away from a chance meeting and reinforce that with your style. Every interaction is an opportunity for you to leave a lasting impression and your image is a powerful tool in your arsenal. Here are a few tips to guide you in selecting a look for everyday special occasions:
1. Will the event be inside or outside?
2. Are you being honored or recognized in some way?
3. Does the event have a theme?
4. How many people are expected to attend?
5. What time of day will the event be held?
Each networking function, special event or, in this case White House affair, is an opportunity for you to expand your brand to new connections and reinforce your brand to those that you know. Think about the message that you want others to take away from a chance meeting and reinforce that with your style. Every interaction is an opportunity for you to leave a lasting impression and your image is a powerful tool in your arsenal. Here are a few tips to guide you in selecting a look for everyday special occasions:
- Buy special occasion attire when you don't have an event to attend. You'll be less rushed and more likely to select something that fits your image and style strategy - making you look your best.
- Resist the temptation to use your attire to make a statement. Don't select something just to be different. Stick to what looks fantastic on you. Your image should be consistent and always polished and stylish.
- Dress for the climate. Since my client's event was in Washington, D.C. I checked the 10 day forecast to determine if the dress we'd selected would be appropriate and unfortunately it was predicted to be cold during her stay. Even though the dress that I selected was stunning, we selected another dress. You cannot concentrate on networking and making important connections if you are too cold or too hot.
- Don't choose something that is too trendy or flashy. When a special event comes up it's very easy to get caught up in the excitement and choose something "special" to make you stand out. If you've established a style in line with your brand stick to it and select classic lines and colors that can't miss.
- Take pictures of yourself in the outfit you choose. Whether it's at the White House or the annual office party it is likely that your photo will be taken. Make sure that your selection looks as great on film as is does in the dressing room.
