Dress to impress

WHEN it comes to the workplace, there’s never been a more competitive time.

But forget backstabbing, sweat-breaking or office politics — it’s your threads that can get you ahead in the boardroom, according to one Irish stylist.

Whether you’re trying to get back into employment or plump for a promotion, first impressions count more than ever says personal stylist Shirley Lane — who runs a Dress for Success workshop to teach men and women how to scale the ladder in style.

“People can get into a comfort zone of v-neck jumpers and baggy black slacks for work,” says Lane.

“But in the current climate, with lots of people either looking for work or doing the work of two people, it’s never been more important to look the part and feel confident in the office.”

Take your cue from Mad Men’s Don Draper, who’s permanently suited and booted, or Joan Harris, who manages to look sexy and professional, and gives sloppy workwear a P45. “It’s all about creating a powerful first impression,” explains Lane. “Clients often say to me, ‘Sure, it’s only work’ — but you spend most of your day at work, so why spend the time from when you leave the house in the morning to when you get home looking and feeling rubbish.

“Even ‘casual Friday’ shouldn’t be the same as Saturday at home — you’re still in work.”

But your new winning work wardrobe needn’t cost a (pay) packet.

“With around nine key items — including a fitted dress, jacket, skirt and blouse – a woman can create a capsule work wardrobe for around €300,” adds Shirley. “It’s even easier for guys.

“It’s not about spending money, but when you do – spend it wisely.”

Above we give three young professionals an office overhaul.

* Dress for Success workshops run throughout November and December at Blanchardstown Centre, Priced €50.

* For more information: [e-mail].

How to power dress your face

FROM tango tan to false lashes, the TOWIE [The Only Way Is Essex] look has no place in the office, says make-up artist Keara Kelly.

“Office make-up should enhance your features without being noticeable,” she says. “Your work colleagues should be able to tell the difference between your daytime and nighttime looks.”

Kelly reveals how to power dress your face:

Foundation: “The key thing is to get the colour right. Go for a medium coverage foundation which you can build up to full coverage to go from day to night. Start with a primer and finish with a light dust of translucent powder to set your foundation. Depending on your skin type, it should last throughout the day.”

Eyebrows: “Using a matte eyeshadow that matches your hair colour and eyebrow brush, lightly fill in your brows to frame the face. For a more defined look after work, simply wet the brush and retrace the shape. If your brows are long or coarse, set with a brow wax or Vaseline.”

Eyes: “Apply a matte, cream base to the lid and blend a light brown into the socket line for definition — intensify with a darker brown or even black for evening. To widen the eyes, add a thin layer of eyeliner along the upper lash line and finish with a coat of black mascara. False lashes or glitter in the office are a definite no-no.”

Cheeks: “During the day, I’d recommend a light pink or coral blush. Your foundation should match your skin tone, so you should need to apply bronzer to your face or décolletage.”

Lips: “Stick to a natural pink or nude lipstick or gloss for the office — you can easily switch to a bolder colour for nighttime.”

* Make-up by Keara: [e-mail]