5 Fashion Considerations Before Leaving the House

San Antonio, Texas is among the top ten largest cities in the United States.  Of course, when driving on the freeway, I completely agree with the numbers.  However, it has never felt like a big city to me and I have lived here since the early 1980s.  A very rare occasion would be to go anywhere…even the grocery market…and not run into someone we know. Especially my husband who was born and raised just north of the Alamo!  We see neighbors daily and the overall “feel” of San Antonio is that of a small town.

When I make a decision to step out of our house, I know I will be seen in what I am wearing.  I am not perfect, so there are those times I run to the store with a big sweatshirt, no makeup, and athletic pants on. We are all human after all.  However, I always try to remember to dress for “the moment” because you never know when “the moment” will happen.

What I mean is simple….we just never really know when we will run into someone who could change our lives and offer a new career, or vision, or path for a midlife and beyond woman to pursue. I have had some pretty meaningful conversations in Walmart…the library…or even a doctor’s office.   I also have been stopped on the street (once by the fashion writer for the local newspaper) and asked if a picture could be taken.   So, this post is simply to encourage you to adapt business casual attire for your life on days when it includes running errands, lunching with a friend, or even a retirement lifestyle.

Remember, our clothing selections communicate messages about us!  We want to communicate a vibrant, visual, joyful, confident message no matter what we are up to.  I can hear the groans over cyberspace.  Retirement should be comfort and a few slouchy days; however, too many days like that will affect our demeanor and rob precious joy and opportunities from us.

You might consider these ideas:

1. Have one day a week as down day… A-do-things-around-the-house-and- not-go-out-day.
2. Select a few nice looks to top off your jeans for errand running. Even toss on a great jacket for a more professional polish.
3. Remember sneakers are completely in and look great with a polished dark denim and nice blouse. Perfect for going from place to place.
4. Take time to fix your hair and put on some makeup…with a polished and bright smile just about anything below will look better.
5. Before leaving the house, look in the mirror and ask, “What does this say about me?” If I run into someone important to my life, what will I be communicating to them with my first impression?

I know we hate it that appearance matters.  But it simply does.  If we want others to understand we will do a great job for them, or oversee that project with excellence, or be the face of a fundraiser, we need to portray it when out in the community. Also, never leave the house without your business cards.

Dress for the moment for you never know when the moment will happen.

There was such a great response to the Pinterest board for the BAM conference, I did one for weekend wear….a few ideas always seem to help!

Thanks for dropping by the Joy Boutique…have a warm, wonderful week!