Although the thermometers soar to record high temps, the new fall fashion trends call out my name. They are not only over-the-top gorgeous but also highly wearable thanks to the challenging economy and the designers’ need to survive. Today I am going to tell you about the trend toward red as well as provide evidence that it will not only pep up your audience, but you, as well.

Whether you wear a daring red ensemble, or a less bold skirt, slacks or top or whether you opt for a s simple scarlet accessory or two, red will garner you the attention that will help you win at the game of business. It’s not bad for the game of love, either as you will note below.

This year, you will find head-to-toe dresses and suits as well as great bags, shoes, gloves, scarves and other accessories in this flamboyant hue. For the truly daring, a red coat is an outstanding choice.

If you opt for the bold head-to-toe look, then accessorize in more neutral tones. A camel, black or navy shoe or bag would be a great choice. Keep your accessories simple and let your ensemble speak volumes for itself.

You can definitely opt for one of the gorgeous shades of red lipstick (such as our brand new Luxury Matte Red Carpet Red, illustrated below) with this look. If you opt for that standout color, then tone down the rest of your makeup with neutrals.  A less bold option for lips is Luxury Matte Hollywood.  While it is more neutral it is a no less trendy choice for fall.  You might still opt for a neutral palette for eyes and cheeks, as the red carries a lot of impact on its own.

If, until now, you have not found the shade of red that flatters your skin tone, then try a few more shades until you do. Red can be warm with tones in the scarlet or crimson family or cool with leanings toward cranberry or burgundy. One of these shades has your name on it—so try a few options until you find the one that lights up your inner diva.

If you are having a hard time pinning down the right red, wear a shoe or bag, which is not near your face. It will still make the point but will not clash with your skin tone.

If you want more evidence that red is a great trend to try this year, here is the proof:

Did you know that research proves that red is the most winning color?

• Want the science? Scientists have discovered that red triggers the pituitary and adrenal glands to release adrenaline.

That’s probably why:

• Red not only affects those viewing you, but also makes you—the wearer—feel more energetic, as well.

Luxury Matte Lipstick in Red Carpet Red

Shadow Trio in Date

Mineral Matte Blush in Dusk

o Note: that makes it a great date color, too! Make passion your fashion!

• More sports teams with red in their uniforms win games and titles than any other color.

• Whether you enter a room to network, meet with a client, or make a presentation red is the color that will garner positive attention from your colleague or prospect.

• Red is the color of action, confidence, power, excitement, passion, vitality, exuberance and courage.

Haven’t I just described YOU?

I was asked today to present regularly at the Kings Highway Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library located at 2115 Ocean Avenue. My next presentation will take place on Wednesday June 29, 2011 from 4:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.

While we will focus on Attire, Attitude and Etiquette for Your Job Interview in the New Normal Job Market, this ongoing meeting will provide support for people searching for meaningful work in this challenging market.

Please join us for this active meeting and find your power and success in the support, information and feedback that you will find here.

My Message: No Matter Who You Work For, You are Always the CEO of YOU!

It is Always Best to Negotiate from a Position of Power—Tell your Interviewer What You Bring to the Table to Help their Company

As you know, the three prior blogs that I posted were related to the presentation I prepared for my local library, the Ocean Avenue Branch. I must say that I found the experience exhilarating. No amount of preparation can prepare you for the impact of real people who show up with their real-world issues and experiences.

What I learned from my audience was that wearing the right clothes and preparing the right resume is only the first scene of a multi-act show. In addition to those steps, it is essential to remember that you are far more employable if you:

• Place yourself in the interviewer’s shoes. Think about the budget cuts they may be facing. Think about the work they are hiring you to do. Think about what you can offer them that others may not.

o Invest time in researching your field as well as specific companies in which you are interested.

• Find out who the President and CEO are as well as any other major players. Google your interviewer to get some idea of their background. Knowledge is power.

• Find out how the company fared last year and in the last quarter.

• Find out who their competitors are—every company has competitors.

• Tell them why their company appeals to you.

• Prepare all of your comments in advance so you will be less likely to be caught off guard.

• Don’t wear blinders. Yes, you are concerned about paying your bills and putting food on the table. But:

o Pick your head up long enough to glance at a newspaper and have a general idea of what is going on in the world, even if it does not appear to effect you directly.

o Desperation is not an attractive trait. You are there to do an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay. Dignity and self-esteem are attractive traits than enhance your employability.

o Your personal and financial concerns are not their problem.

• NEVER allow yourself to be placed in a sexually or other compromising position in exchange for work.

Remember—the prospective employer is not there is make sure you have medical coverage and a paid vacation. They are there to get a job done. You are there to make sure that they see you are the best one to get it done.

Attire, Attitude & Etiquette for Your Job Interview-Part I–Attire

This Thursday May 26, I will be making a presentation on this topic at the Ocean Ave. & Kings Highway Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library.  Since it is on my mind I will blog about some of the essential elements that I will be addressing.

Although the job market is coming back, the hunt is still challenging.  Statistics show that women are being hired less frequently than equally qualified men.  The antiquated misconception that men are supporting a family and women are in it for “the extras” still prevails in spite of the fact that it is patently untrue.

Therefore, it becomes increasingly important to make the right impression during your job interview—you definitely will not get a second chance.

Some essential points for everyone:

• The suit is the outfit of choice for the interview
  • For women, there is some controversy over whether skirt or pant suits are more likely to win the position.  The tide seems to be leaning toward skirt suits
  • Black is authoritative but can also appear severe
  • Navy blue is the most popular color
    • It symbolizes honesty, integrity, logic, wisdom, decisiveness and a host of other positive attributes
• Dark gray is the most neutral color
• For women, I favor a shell rather than a button-down blouse because it is sleeker and avoids any possibility of buttons pulling or popping; just remember that a show of too much skin undermines your credibility and authority
• For men a white shirt or one that coordinates with your suit; a belt, tie, dark, knee-length socks and conservative shoes both of which blend with the color of the suit
• The fit of the suit is the most important element—this is your opportunity to showcase your attention to detail and ability to plan ahead
  • Pant or skirt and sleeve length are critical aspects of your self-presentation
  • For women, skirt length should be in the vicinity of the knee so that it is comfortable when you sit down
  • Pant length should hit the middle of any heel; too short is as bad as too long
• The suit should fit your dimensions without pulling; clothing that fits you is the most flattering no matter what you are wearing
• Jewelry should be minimal for both genders
  • For women: wear nothing that jangles or otherwise distracts; wearing genuine jewelry will unconsciously reflect on the genuine nature of your personality
  • For women, conservative shoes such as nude or black pumps and neutral pantyhose are best
  • For men: limit your jewelry to a wedding band and a watch
  • For everyone: avoid wearing piercings except for one pair of conservative earrings for women, if desired
• Grooming:
  • Light, natural-looking makeup for women
  • Neatly manicured nails and neat hair styles for both genders
  • SPECIAL TIP:  Bring a leather or other high-quality portfolio or briefcase containing one or, even better, two copies of any paperwork you have submitted to get to the interview stage:  your resume, letters of reference, copies of your work and anything else you deem important. (I have found that interviewers rarely have these items in front of them for reference; bring a copy for them and a copy for yourself so you can read along and point out the highlights.)
• What not to wear or bring:
  • Gum
  • Cell phone (or TURN IT OFF); your interviewer is the center of your universe now and s/he should know it
  • Heavy perfume or cologne; what’s appealing to you might be a turnoff to your interviewer—don’t take that chance

Tomorrow:  The must-have attitude and preparation to get the edge over the always-present competition.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments!