I often get mistaken for being 19 or 20 when I am nearly 26. I work in a corporate office and am well educated but I have extremely youthful looks. How can I come across as sophisticated? Are there tricks you can borrow from iconic celebrities that give me confidence and a polished look, without losing my soul?
Anisa W. emailed us at expert@sweetspot.ca; and our stylist, Sarah Collins, answered:
How fortuitous, that you've been blessed with looking young. In answer to your query, here are some guidelines to help you look polished, sophisticated and professional within the corporate world:
Don't look to celebrities as role models. So few of them have had to dress for a corporate setting.
Keep it covered. A blazer or little jacket as a layering piece (worn with separate slacks or skirt) is more tailored and professional looking than a cardigan or sweater-set. A blazer will help you feel of equal stature to your more experienced colleagues, particularly for a gal with youthful looks on her side.
Dress within your corporate culture. This means dressing in a conservative fashion - not too trendy. For example, baby doll style tops (although fashionable) will probably translate as too youthful. A more professional option would be wearing a crisp cotton shirt (either in white or colour), to give a more groomed and crisp look.
Keep your hair style classic. If you have long hair and wish to tie it back, keep the ponytails on the down low. A high ponytail looks too sporty and casual for your corporate life.
Always wear your confidence. This valuable armour will make people notice and listen to you! If some envious soul comments, "my don't you look young!" I suggest you look that person in the eye and retort, confidently, "thank you!"
Sarah Collins is a stylist and owner of Sarah Collins Image Consulting in Toronto. For more information visit www.scimage.ca or info@scimage.ca