Moving Up
Story by M. Meredith Relph
Fall and winter job interviews are often a student's first step toward a career. While the professional image is generally conservative, it does not preclude fashionable, fun clothing.
Basic styles have been spiced up for this year, and dressing for success offers many options for the career-minded student.
For men, the business suit has evolved to textured, patterned fabrics. The double-breasted jacket is always an excellent choice, though one should always be sure to keep the jacket buttoned. Pants are tailored, not too heavy, and perhaps with cuffs.
It is not a good idea to mix several patterns and fabrics, though an acceptable combination would be subtle tweed pants paired with a navy jacket. A red or yellow silk tie adds a dash of color and is acceptable with just about every suit combination. Loden green is a popular shade for men and women this season and is accented well by mustard yellow, reds or rose.
A perfect purchase for the professional woman this fall will be a slightly longer, fitted-waist jacket. This may be worn with slacks or over a just-above-the-knee slim skirt.
Sweaters also may be dressed up with a blouse featuring a large rounded or square collar. Dresses with sailor collars and nautical looks are popular, while a more polished look comes from a plaid or textured coaddress.
Navy and black are always good choices for working people, though basic colors can be saved from becoming drab with the right accessories. Jewelry should be tasteful, though one large pin or necklace may add the proper touch, depending upon the mood evoked by the rest of the outfit. With casual clothing, scarves are popular for women this fall, but mixes of patterns should be approached carefully.
Photos by David Brandt
Top photo: Dimanche print skirt, Theo teal blouse, Leather Shop suede black belt, From Scot's.
Kansan Fashion Special IMAGE/Wednesday; September 28, 1988