How can I look professional without wearing a suit?

[Anonymous]

PP here again. Although it's not clothing, don't underestimate the importance of a good haircut. I see so many women in Washington walking around with expensive clothes and their hair is in a messy ponytail (NO scrunchies, ever!), or the dreaded DC "bob with bangs." I've noticed that French women often have really chic haircuts and wonder why we in DC seem stuck with the same old dowdy styles.

[Anonymous]

Ah, don't slag off poor Ann Taylor--I would be naked without that store! I love Theory but Theory doesn't love me. Nor does Banana or J. Crew. Their lines are very straight and I am very curvy, so we don't go together, whereas AT's "boxy" clothes hang very well on me. I'd LOVE to shop elsewhere just for variety but always end up going back there because that is what works for my body.

But it is all about fit, so I second the general suggestion that you try other brands and see what works for you. We don't all come built the same, so it is all about understanding your body and what works for you. Try different cuts of jackets, and break up the suit so you aren't all matchy matchy. The fabric also makes a huge difference. Maybe you are picking fabrics that are too heavy and stiff and you need something lighter.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote: the dreaded DC "bob with bangs."

So Anna Wintour is frumpy?

[Anonymous]

Hey - I hit the consignment stores. Lots of students in the area who are smaller, need to interview and then get rid of those conservative suits. I also look at Macy's and Talbots for dresses with sweaters, perfect for the DC weather and indoor airconditioning, and for me, it's easier to find a dress that fits then both a jacket and pants/skirt. I try to get the longer dresses in the summer as I don't like to wear hose and longer also means I don't show so much bare leg. The other hint is to buy something reasonable that you really like and have it tailored to fit, then you won't look like you're playing dress-up.

[Anonymous]

I have very, very, very pale legs and never wear tights/hose in the summer. Ever. You absolutely can go bare-legged with a great dress/skirt and shoes. Just make sure your legs are shaved and moisturized. You'll look great!