Ask the Image Expert

Sherry Maysonave is the founder and president of Empowerment Enterprises, one of America's leading communication-image firms. Sherry conducts corporate seminars and coaches executives, professionals, and politicians in achieving excellence in communication and image. She is also the author of Casual Power: How to Power Up your Nonverbal Communication and Dress Down for Success

Skirt Length

Question: My company has started to have a "jeans day" about once a month. What's the appropriate type of shirt and shoes to wear on these days. I've seen some co-workers wear tennis shoes and t-shirts and others wear polo shirts. So far I've stuck to wearing kakis and a company polo on the jeans days.
Tiffany

Answer: Dear Tiffany,
For starters, only wear jeans that are clean and pressed. Instead of a polo shirt, I vote for a crisp white blouse or other stylish top. If the weather is cool, you can even layer a turtleneck sweater under the white blouse for a chic look. In warmer weather, you can do the same with a scooped neck top.

A tailored jacket always works to upgrade and power up jeans. To exhibit further casual-workplace smarts, be sure to finish any "jeans" outfit with leather hard-sole shoes (such as a loafer, ankle boot, or other stylish flats) and a leather belt. Do not wear sneakers with jeans unless it's moving-the-office day. And T-shirts worn with jeans is too casual for any work environment.

Jean day is not a licensed slob day. Style your hair and apply makeup as you would for any other workday. And don't forget to wear earrings or other outfit-enhancing accessories. Pay attention to the details of your accessories, making certain that you have matched metals. For example, if your belt has a silver buckle, be sure to wear silver earrings.

It really depends upon your body type, overall figure, and proportion to discern if jeans are right for you. Jeans look best on slender frames, but then so do khakis. And khakis can look rather manly. When wearing either jeans or khakis, go for a stylish, complete outfit look. Avoid wearing knit golf-shirt styles with these bottoms as the combination is just so ordinary, which makes you (and your ideas) appear ordinary! And you are far from ordinary, aren't you?

Best of luck to you,
Sherry Maysonave

Also see:

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  • Ask your image questions
  • Personal Power: A case study from 'Casual Power'