Today I am partnering with Tide Cleaners to share 5 wardrobe staples to dress for success. Delia’s Cleaners recently transitioned all 21 of their stores in the valley to Tide Cleaners. To celebrate they are asking everyone to “clean for a cause” at all 21 locations on April 13th.
In addition, Tide Cleaners is donating 20% of its sales on April 13th to Dress for Success Phoenix. Tide Cleaners will also be surprising 10 lucky guests with FREE dry cleaning for a year that day. All you have to do is visit your nearest Arizona Tide Cleaners location and fill out an entry form on April 13. No purchase is required.
Then from April 14th-30th Tide Cleaners will accept gently worn professional clothing for women such as skirts, suits, slacks, blazers, and blouses. These donations will help women get back on their feet and into the workplace. How awesome is that! I know I’ll be donating a few items to Dress for Success Phoenix!
If you read my last post about 5 Things You Should Be Dry Cleaning then you know the benefits of dry cleaning. I can always count on Tide Cleaners to make sure my clothes are looking their best. From making sure my favorite slacks don’t fade to making sure my clothes are nicely pressed. Tide Cleaners makes it easy and convenient to drop off my clothes after a long work week. I love the friendly staff who get me in and out.
Now let’s get into to some fancy fashion styling tips….
Although I work from home, I often meet with potential clients and attend networking events. This means I have to put down the comfy pants and put on some fancy dress pants. Over the years I have learned to always keep these 5 wardrobe staples in my closet. That way I’m never left with a… I have nothing to wear moment!!! I’m all about that stress free life. As a result, I exude more confidence, because I have a wardrobe that fits and suits my personal style.
Here are 5 Wardrobe Staples to Dress for Success:
1. Blazer
Everyone needs a well fitted blazer in their wardrobe. Just make sure it fits your shoulder width, arm length, and can button up. Blazers are such a versatile piece and can easily change up any outfit. All you have to do is pair it with your favorite dress, slacks, or skirt. For more business causal outfits, you can pair with jeans.
Everyone should own a black blazer for more professional occasions. If your workplace allows, I encourage you to try a light-colored blazer like the cream blazer I am wearing. A light-colored blazer can really change the mood of an outfit. However, if thats a little too daring, then try a navy blue or plum colored blazer instead.
2. Tapered Ankle Length Pants
A good trouser is a must. I am on the shorter side, so ankle length pants are my best friend. But I really like a tapered ankle length pant on everyone. Not only does it give the allusion of longer legs. It’s chic and modern. Everyone needs a good fitting pair of pants/trousers. Mid-rise and high rise are the most flattering. If pant legs are too long, have them tailored to fit you. As a shorter person, I do a quick hem at home and it only takes a few minutes. Pink pants may not be for everyone, but I enjoy bright pops of color.
3. Printed Blouse
I love plain white blouse, but they can get boring quickly. That is why I love a printed blouse, like the polka dot button up shirt I am wearing. The key to printed blouses is to make sure the print is small and timeless. You don’t want the print to be distracting. I like to stick with classic polka dots and stripes. Just make sure blouses fit in the shoulder and have zero button gaps. There is nothing more uncomfortable than worrying about a button that might pop open.
4. Fitted A-Line Skirt
As much as I love a fitted pencil skirt, they are not easy to move around in and they often wrinkle easy. I’m all about comfort and prefer a-line skirts. Not only do they allow for more movement, they provide a flattering silhouette. They key here is to make sure the waist fits and the skirt length hits right above the knee. Now that it’s getting warmer here in Arizona, I prefer wearing skirts so I am nice and cool throughout the day.
5. Neutral Shoes
I love black shoes but I gravitate toward neutral colored heels such as tan and brown. Not only will wearing neutral colored shoes elongate your legs, they go with everything. The key here is making sure the heels are modest and comfortable. Walking in ill fitting shoes all day is not very flattering. I like finding interesting shaped heels to give variety. If heels are not comfortable, pointed toe flats are a great alternative.
If you don’t have all these items, don’t fret!
I’ve worked in the business world for over 9 years and have accumulated pieces along the way. Some pieces were investment pieces while others were found at local consignment stores at a fraction of their original price. So, don’t feel pressured to go out and buy all new items.
Dressing for success is building and creating a wardrobe that works for you and your budget. Make sure everything fits and don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles to make the look your own. It’s amazing how putting on a stylish outfit can give a boost in confidence.
Happy dressing and a huge thank you to Tide Cleaners for sponsoring this post.
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