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Women in the workplace really do want to be taken seriously, even on a casual Friday. How can you dress for success, while being comfortable and chic?

CLASSY, NOT CHEESY

Without being a brand-name snob, top employees really must wear high-quality attire, even if it's casual clothing. Well-tailored clothes that fit your form do add authority to your entire appearance. Even khakis or blue jeans can be classics, if they are coordinated to a quality top. Why not add a lovely scarf, a sweater, vest, or casual blazer?

BOLD, NOT BRASSY

Leading ladies need not hide in beiges and browns, but they ought to steer away from neons and loud patterns. Sexy see-through fabrics and gaudy or childish prints have no place in the office. Powder pink and baby blue speak of innocence, but not intelligence and innovation. Classic looks simply attribute class to the wearer.

PRESS TO IMPRESS

Clean, well-kept clothing is a must. Wrinkled shirts and pants have no place in the corporate office. Torn items must be mended or tossed. Missing buttons must be replaced. Neatness counts.

CHOOSE YOUR SHOES

Cheap, dirty shoes do not ooze of success. Clean, polished, high-quality leather shoes do. Save the sneakers for Saturdays.

On the other hand (or foot), sexy stilettos are not smart for work. Postpone the peekaboos for Friday night on the town.

ACCESSORIZE ASTUTELY

An exceptional leather belt with a polished and understated buckle is an absolute requirement. A quality wristwatch can be a powerful fashion statement as well.

A few well-chosen pieces of genuine or fashion jewelry can complete a classy look.

Even if you are not yet an executive, but you would like to be one someday . . . dressing the part is half the battle.

Learn more about this author, Linda Ann Nickerson.
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