Ask an Expert
October '21 TOPIC: Business Attire: Saving Money & Working It!
Elsa Isaac
Sought-After Fashion & Image Stylist Photo Credit: Marsha Gibson |
OUR EXPERT:
Elsa Isaac is a sought-after New York City-based fashion and image stylist who believes style is really all about self-expression. A seasoned pro with 18 plus years in the fashion industry, this East African-born stylist has built quite a noteworthy portfolio, having bestowed her stylish magic on everyone from Marie Forleo to Lenny Kravitz; Katie Couric to Kris Carr. Nowadays, she helps successful career women and entrepreneurs revamp their wardrobes and create show-stopping ensembles that flatter their unique body shapes and lifestyles. A self-dubbed anti-fashion stylist, Elsa doesn’t believe there’s one standard of beauty. She strives to empower all her clients to celebrate their own individuality. |
What’s a good option for slightly changing up a business outfit to suit an after-hours business networking event? After working for over eight hours, I like to freshen up without completely changing my outfit out.” ~ Lauren (SC)
Hi Lauren,
I'd say either change up your shoes or blazer/jacket. These are both items that can completely (and easily) shift the feel of an outfit in whatever direction you'd prefer!
“My office is still working remotely due to COVID. We meet via Zoom. You would think it would be easy, only having to worry about the waist up. But I’m running out of ideas for changing things up without buying tons of new tops. Any suggestions?” ~ Briana (NY)
Hi Briana,
Spend an hour a week playing dress-up in your closet and finding new ways to wear what you have. Layering two garments together can work. For example, adding a button-down under a sleeveless dress/top) can be one way to change things up. You can also create color-blocked looks and pair two complementary colors together.
You may have to invest in a few new pieces every season, but if you're consistently creating combo options in your closet, you'll know exactly what you have and don't have. This will help you to make more targeted and intentional buying decisions.
“I’ve just been promoted. My job description has changed in that I’ll be having more meetings with clients. In the past, I didn’t need to worry about my attire as much. I don’t yet have the money to buy a bunch of pantsuits right away. Any ideas for how I can look the part without wearing out my credit card too quickly?” ~ Anonymous (NJ)
Dear anonymous,
Set aside some time to schedule a closet cleanse for yourself and go through every garment you own. Determine if it suits your body shape first. Then, you need to decide if the garment makes you feel good. If you can't say yes to both of these questions for any garment, give it away or consign it. If there are garments you can help make better or give new life to with tailoring, DO IT! Tailoring your clothing is the least expensive and fastest way to create a wardrobe you love — and one that is also custom-fit for your body.
Hi Lauren,
I'd say either change up your shoes or blazer/jacket. These are both items that can completely (and easily) shift the feel of an outfit in whatever direction you'd prefer!
“My office is still working remotely due to COVID. We meet via Zoom. You would think it would be easy, only having to worry about the waist up. But I’m running out of ideas for changing things up without buying tons of new tops. Any suggestions?” ~ Briana (NY)
Hi Briana,
Spend an hour a week playing dress-up in your closet and finding new ways to wear what you have. Layering two garments together can work. For example, adding a button-down under a sleeveless dress/top) can be one way to change things up. You can also create color-blocked looks and pair two complementary colors together.
You may have to invest in a few new pieces every season, but if you're consistently creating combo options in your closet, you'll know exactly what you have and don't have. This will help you to make more targeted and intentional buying decisions.
“I’ve just been promoted. My job description has changed in that I’ll be having more meetings with clients. In the past, I didn’t need to worry about my attire as much. I don’t yet have the money to buy a bunch of pantsuits right away. Any ideas for how I can look the part without wearing out my credit card too quickly?” ~ Anonymous (NJ)
Dear anonymous,
Set aside some time to schedule a closet cleanse for yourself and go through every garment you own. Determine if it suits your body shape first. Then, you need to decide if the garment makes you feel good. If you can't say yes to both of these questions for any garment, give it away or consign it. If there are garments you can help make better or give new life to with tailoring, DO IT! Tailoring your clothing is the least expensive and fastest way to create a wardrobe you love — and one that is also custom-fit for your body.
