Message #59656

[countrigal]

In my office, we're in business casual except for Friday, when we can wear jeans.  And we just got out of our summer "non-nylon" days.  Since I'm in the south (US), it's hot and humid pretty much all summer, so dressing for cool is the only way to go.  Therefore, I wear skirts or slacks without nylons all summer.  I feel more 'professional' in them, but when you sweat, even in your office in the AC, you give up some things for comfort.  And since everyone, including bossie, follows this protocol, I've learned to accept it.  I also wear cap sleeves or sleeveless tops for the coolness factor.  But once October comes, I'm back to nylons (or stockings) and if I wear a sleeveless top I put a long sleeve (or 3/4 sleeve) top under it.

I tend not to wear short skirts - personal preference.  But hubby has talked me into getting some that are knee length (or just above) and I feel good in them.  Probably because he likes me in them.  For the most part my skirts are varied from just below the knee to floor length.

As for cleavage... I'm well endowed, so there is no getting around cleavage unless I wear a shirt buttoned up to the neck (think victorian era).  What I tend to do is wear shirts that are no lower than if I left a button-up shirt open for the top 2 buttons, which tends to be about 3 inches from the hollow in my throat/neck.  This looks like more cleavage when looking down from my angle, but when I look in the mirror, it is respectable and not showing any at all and if someone walks up to me at my desk, they may see a touch of cleavage but my 'girls' aren't out there for all to see.  My shirts are tailored appropriately, so aren't snug and showing everything off.  For me, bras are there to do a job and should not be an 'accessory', and therefore not seen at all, so the color is appropriate under my shirts and don't shine through, as well as designs not showing.  I personally think that a little cleavage (think just a hint) when faced head-on is not unprofessional, but if you are getting more looks at your chest than your eyes, then start re-thinking your top attire.  I am chesty but do not get stares and such at my chest, even with my name badge in that vacinity, so I'm comfortable with my attire.

I do feel you dress for the position you want, and accordingly I pick out ladies in positions of power in my company and try to emulate their style while sticking with what works for me.  Long hair is great, but to me it's more professional to wear it up in some way.  Most of the ladies I see in higher positions with long hair wear their's up, so this adds to my thoughts.  I think the overall impression one gives should be of polished and put-together.  Not stylish, funk, sexy, or whatever some of these younger folks are thinking when dressing for the office.  There's a time and place for various styles, but the toned-down groomed look is best for an office, IMHO.

But that's my thoughts...

CountriGal
Peer Moderator