If you’ve been reading Ujima Magazine you are familiar with my personal makeover, a journey I started for several reasons. I left a job where I dressed casually for the most part because I visited a lot of homes and my clothes could be ruined easily. From the time I left my job to starting my own business, I gained weight. This is not my first experience gaining weight, but it is the first time I have not pushed to change it. Call it age or just plain lazy, but it is what it is.
Despite the fact that I changed careers and gained weight, I know deep down I need to still look my best, which for me is easier said than done because my self-esteem is not all that great right now. Coming from a place where I could wear Ann Taylor to now looking for places that carry plus size makes me crazy. After attending networking events and being around other businesswomen, I realize my business attire has to improve because I represent my company. However, finding trendy, cute and fashionable clothing in a plus size can be like finding a needle in a haystack. I bet you are thinking that it should motivate me to change things and lose the weight, right? Well it doesn’t. As I build my company I need to look the part and feel comfortable in the way I present myself. My image will speak to potential customers before I say anything.
I came across this great article by Forbes writer Scott Reeves; Dress For Success One thing he stated, “presentation is everything,” really made me think. In my office, I do not have a dress code, but one problem I suffer from is under dressing. I sometimes feel I can just put on some jeans or Capri’s with a t-shirt but again presentation is everything.
I am working to ensure I dress appropriately each day, whether I have appointments or not. I need to dress for success everyday and it is something we, as women who work from home or an office, has to remember.
Do you dress according to your appointments and contacts or do you dress to impress everyday? Email at DamitaShanklin@aol.com to let me know your thoughts.
Damita Miller-Shanklin is the founder and publisher of Ujima Magazine and the co-host of Ujima TV with Damita and Evelina a public access show.
