We all have our favorite outfits; some we have outgrown in age or in size and deep down inside, we are all aware of this. But sometimes, something within us still silently tells us that we can wear whatever we want, whenever we want, but that voice must be silenced at times.

There is an appropriate type of clothing for every occasion, whether it be business or social. If your dress or shirt is see-through at home, it will be see-through when you go out. So, if you aren’t going to a place where a sheer shirt is acceptable, change in advance instead of pretending you didn’t know or making excuses about why you thought it would be ok to wear it. Nothing will make you more uncomfortable and self-conscious about yourself if you are dressed inappropriately at a public outing.

Scarlet Says…consider these things when deciding how to dress at your next outing in 2012:

• Was there a dress code identified on the invitation or by the host? If so, follow it. Creative dress is certainly encouraged when appropriate, but stick to the dress code and avoid sticking out like a sore thumb.
• What time of year is this event? Dress appropriately for comfort, warmth or coolness depending on the time of year.
• What time of day is the event? An afternoon event usually means that it is acceptable to wear  an afternoon dress or dress suit. Men can wear a coat and tie, such as a sport jacket with a tie or a dark or light business suit.  An evening event usually means  women may wear a very dressy afternoon dress or a short or long cocktail dress or dress suit. Men wear a dark business suit, a dress shirt (typically white), and evening tie. If the event is identified as formal, the attire changes to more of a black tie (men) or formal attire (women).
• Are you taking a date to the event? Dress to compliment your mate with colors and attire choice.

Until next time…

–Scarlet