Dress for Success & Be Positive in 2009 with Lisboa Boutique Cork

15 January 2009

Many people are starting 2009 with the prospect of changing jobs, weighing up their career options and perhaps going for interviews. Although people are weary from the harsh realities being faced in 2009 there are positive steps that one can take when either dressing for your current job or dressing for interviews.  Confidence is Key when dressing for interviews. Although you may be a bundle of nerves inside, by dressing smartly you will automatically improve your body posture and walk with more purpose.  Marie Harty,Owner of Lisboa Boutique Cork Says;

'The team here at Lisboa Boutique Cork have seen many women who are about to start new jobs.  Some may be returning to the workforce for the first time in a long time and they need a few pieces to incorporate into their own wardrobes which will give them more confidence at what can be a very daunting time. We always advise them on what will suit their shapes as we want them to leave the shop with a few pieces that will help them feel more confident, suit their individuality and last them from season to season'

Marie advises people to invest in a crisp white shirt which will never date. This can be worn inside a suit or with a black skirt. It's better to stick to conservative colours like black, navy and grey for interviews. Individuality can be expressed more when you actually have the job! It is also a good idea to invest in separates which can be mixed and matched like trousers from Gerard Darel and jackets from Tara Jarmon

For those facing these challenging times in the workforce the words "Business, Smart Casual"are often misunderstood. Trying to decide every morning what this means can be a difficult task that many people just get wrong.  Too much cleavage, skirts that are too short, ripped jeans, flip-flops, there are an abundance of fashion faux pas that can actually hinder your chances of promotion, and let's face it in the current economic climate, no one can afford to appear complacent.

Having a positive attitude to how you appear at work can help your chances of promotion. It is important at all times to appear sophisticated, not sloppy. By appearing well dressed and well groomed during the working week you are sending out a positive message to other co-workers, clients ..and the competition!  However, some people might need a helping hand in this area.

Marie Harty says  'People who invest in their work wardrobes are investing in themselves and their futures. However being a working mother with a busy schedule I know how difficult it can be to find the time to actually plan a wardrobe. We here at Lisboa Boutique can open before normal working hours or open later in the evening by appointment. We can advise clients on dressing for interviews, dressing for their current roles and also how to dress for corporate functions'

When times improve, the people who appeared more confident, who took their jobs seriously and who dressed for success will be the ones moving quickly up the career path.

Lisboa Boutique is located at 39, Maylor Street, Cork (Near Smith's Toys). For more info please call 021 4270032 or email you corporate wardrobe queries to marie@lisboa.ie