Rithanie Gonzales is an intern for Chic Galleria. She is a senior at the University of Washington, majoring in English Lit. ... Read More »]]>

Tuesday always calls for being a trendy Wendy after starting off your week. Wide leg trousers will always do the trick in the office and why not crimson? If your co-workers do get a peak of your heels, wear your Louboutin Leather Pumps then, pair with a button down blouse, throw on your Kate Spade bangles, and carry all that is necessary in your Balenciaga bag. You’ll definitely be turning heads at the office and have a wonderful work week.

Rithanie Gonzales is an intern for Chic Galleria. She is a senior at the University of Washington, majoring in English Lit. Internally, writing is something she’s always been passionate about and seeks to work in fashion pr. Other than school and interning, Rithanie has her own blog ritgonz.tumblr.com and you can follow her on twitter @ritgonz

The unseasonably warm weather this January certainly has enticed me to venture outside more and soak up the sunshine.

I’ve been dealing with the issue of dating and believe me – at my age – it isn’t easy.  I admit that I’m an extremely busy woman and my business often takes precedence over my personal life.  It just seems that most men over 50 are looking for a woman half my age or someone to help them juggle their own hectic lives.  I often think about throwing in the towel and just becoming comfortable at home on Friday night flipping channels. ... Read More »]]>

The unseasonably warm weather this January certainly has enticed me to venture outside more and soak up the sunshine.

I’ve been dealing with the issue of dating and believe me – at my age – it isn’t easy.  I admit that I’m an extremely busy woman and my business often takes precedence over my personal life.  It just seems that most men over 50 are looking for a woman half my age or someone to help them juggle their own hectic lives.  I often think about throwing in the towel and just becoming comfortable at home on Friday night flipping channels. However, thoughts of someone to spend this time with me always creep in my mind.  Believe me, I’m not the Queen of great past relationships.  I do admit, though, that I’m an eternal optimist.

What are your thoughts on dating when work seems to dominate your time?

Sweater, Talbots (my closet)
Similar from Vince

Glasses, Coach

Bracelet, courtesy of LOFT

Coat, Karen Kane (my closet)
Similar from Larry Levine

Earrings, Lia Sophia (my closet)
Similar from Nordstrom

Eye Makeup, Smokey Eye Kit, courtesy of glō·minerals

Layered Statement necklace, courtesy of t+j Designs.

The Soul Mate Myth: A 3-Step Program to Finding Real Love , courtesy of Dr. Jean Cirillo

Photo credit: Jill Solomon Photography

I can even admit my ... Read More »]]>

A job interview outfit is one of the most important fashion events you will plan for. Sorry ladies but it’s not just what’s on the resume these days. Today’s market is more competitive and fierce than ever. There is a look that needs to accompany your fabulous skills and talents. I’ve worked in HR/Training for many years now and I’ve seen my share of train wrecks. I remember one candidate that stuck out to me; (quite literally) the girl with the HUGE stain all over her shirt. Come on. Fail to plan and plan to fail.

I can even admit my own job interview disaster back when I was 18. I remember going for an interview in an outfit that I would have also worn to the club. That’s right; cleavage, glitter on the cleavage, butterfly clips in my hair, and spandex. Wow. What was I thinking?

Nope, I never even got a return call. See? My point exactly.

So, what should you wear to a job interview?

Think classic with a sprinkle of irresistible flavor. Having worked in corporate America for 10+ years, I can’t stand being victim to “falling in line”. However, I’m a firm believer that there is a time and place for everything; especially when it comes to fashion. You want to take the timeless interview fashion rules but mix your personality into them. You don’t want the company hiring a robot. You want them to hire you for who you really are. Never lose yourself for a job. Believe me, it’s not worth it.

As a recruiter, they have a lot of faces to see. You want to stick out in the employer’s mind out but not for the wrong reasons. A power suit never goes out of style. However, how you style it does. You want to walk in that room and own it. Your outfit should complement your resume and say “Yes, I’m the perfect woman for the job.”

Job Interview Fashion Do’s

~Get your hair done. I think it looks best pulled back, pulled half way back but not all down if it’s long and not hot curled like you are trying to be a seductress. No bedroom hair!

~Get a manicure or a fresh fill-in. Our hands do a lot of talking!

~Wear a tailored jacket to pull your look together. It’s polished and illustrates maturity.

~Keep the color patterns neutral but don’t lose your personality.

~Don’t forget shoes and a matching handbag. You need to look pulled together. Nothing can mess this up more than a mismatched handbag or horrible shoes.

Job Interview Fashion Don’ts

~Don’t show an ounce of cleavage.

~No body glitter. Ok, seriously let’s move on to the real don’ts

~No leopard print. I love animal prints but remember there is a time and place. First interview are not the place.

~No hooker makeup. Are you interviewing to swing down a pole or to showcase your professionalism?

~No gaudy jewelry. You know I love my chunky rings and crazy necklaces. Keep it simple and elegant.

~No ghetto fabulous nails. Sorry, but no 3D Hello Kitty nails. Come on, now.

~No fur. No studded shoes. No spikes. No metallic leggings. You get my drift?

~My biggest pet peeve of all: NO GUM!! EVER!

Another piece of advice, never get dressed the day of the interview. Try everything on a few days before and practice sitting, walking, and even shaking hands with your dubs on. When you look good, you feel good and it radiates into everything you say. Lastly, don’t forget to practice for the interview and give it all you got, Miss Irresistible!

Contributing writer, Aimee “Mimi” Beltran is an instructional designer and blogger with an obsession for all things fashion!  She spends her time designing training programs in addition to managing two blogs; Irresistible Icing and Irresistible Pets. She loves spending time with her husband, their Chihuahua, Chuy, dancing to merengue, eating icing, and anything that sparkles! Follow Mimi on Facebook and @MyIcing on Twitter!

No need for frustrating trips to the mall!  All you need: a classic dress (whether it be a LBD or a splash of colour – I prefer the later) and a great blazer.

From there, all you need is a splash of some fabulous statement accessories in metallics – silver or gold. A great necklace, bracelet, and cocktail ring. Careful though not to overload on ... Read More »]]>

Every year, many women are faced with the dilemma of finding something perfect to wear to their work’s Christmas party.  What most don’t realize, is that you can often create something festive from your very own wardrobe.

No need for frustrating trips to the mall!  All you need: a classic dress (whether it be a LBD or a splash of colour – I prefer the later) and a great blazer.

From there, all you need is a splash of some fabulous statement accessories in metallics – silver or gold. A great necklace, bracelet, and cocktail ring. Careful though not to overload on your jewellery

I also recommend a fabulous pair of pumps. I prefer a splash of colour or metallic again (as this adds a great pump to any outfit – whether used at day or at night).

Using classic pieces in your wardrobe will give you a variety of various work styles and ways to style yourself during special evenings without breaking the bank!

Warmest wishes,

Christie Ressel, International Image Consultant
Personal Power Image Consulting

To check out her online and in person style services, click here.