Q: No matter how carefully I pack, my clothes always get wrinkled. Any advice?
A: If you find an article of clothing is wrinkled when you arrive at your hotel, run a hot shower and hang the item close by. The steam from the shower will naturally press your garment. Wrinkle-resistant sprays are also helpful and convenient, as they are small enough to stash in a purse or briefcase. If all else fails, try asking the concierge. Some hotels offer pressing services, while others supply the room with an iron and board.
—Carol Davidson, StyleWorks of Union Square
Q: What's a polite way to escape from a nonstop talker at a reception or cocktail function?
A: When you want to break away from a conversation, be friendly but firm. Simply extend your hand for a handshake and say, "Mary, I have to speak to a colleague now. It was a pleasure meeting and talking with you." You can now take your leave without having offended anyone. If you feel you may want to reconnect with this individual at a later date, you might also suggest exchanging business cards.
—Kelly Machbitz, owner, Totalfashionmakeover.com, Clearwater, Fla.
Q: How can I avoid wrinkles in my clothes when I pack for business trips?
A: Both an overstuffed suitcase and one with too much empty space will lead to wrinkles, so pack lightly but tightly. Place heavy items (shoes, toiletries, etc.) on the bottom so they don't shift, crush, and wrinkle your clothing. Shirts, skirts, and pants can be folded, stacked, and packed in the center of your suitcase. By putting tissue paper in between layers, you will reduce friction and wrinkles. Knits and more casual items (T-shirts, polo shirts, jeans, etc.) as well as pajamas should be rolled and placed around the sides of your suitcase. On top, place face down any items on hangers. Leave them in plastic dry cleaning bags to reduce creases. Look for travel-friendly items (folders, cubes, compressors, etc.) designed to make packing more organized and wrinkle-free.
—Carol Davidson, StyleWorks of Union Square
Q: Is it necessary to say "bless you" when someone sneezes during a meeting?
A: Nowadays, people expect a "bless you," not out of concern for the sneezer's well-being, but simply as an acknowledgment of another's presence. Is it necessary? Probably not. No one says anything when someone coughs, so why do sneezes deserve special treatment? If the sneezer happens to be seated next to you, offer a discreet "bless you," if you like. If, however, the person is at the other end of the room or someone has already given his or her blessing, hold off. At meetings, you want to move past interruptions and distractions quickly and get back to business.
—Kelly Machbitz, owner, Totalfashionmakeover.com, Clearwater, Fla.
Q: Can I wear sleeveless tops to work in the summer?
A: This question comes up nearly every time I give a corporate presentation on image and style. If your company is conservative in general or has a traditional business dress code (i.e., suits, jackets), wearing sleeveless clothing—without a jacket or cardigan—is inappropriate. In a business casual setting, the answer is not so clear-cut. In the absence of a formal dress code, err on the side of caution and ask your manager or HR person. Exposed skin sends a less business-like message, so also consider the nature of your work. Do you have a client-facing role or is your work primarily behind the scenes? If you do decide to go sleeveless, avoid tank tops, halters, and camisoles. Instead, opt for a sleeveless style with more coverage and a modest neckline. Finally, make sure you have a jacket or cardigan at the office, in case you're called into an unexpected meeting.
—Carol Davidson, StyleWorks of Union Square
Q: Is chewing gum ever acceptable in a business situation?
A: As an image consultant and etiquette trainer, I must say it is never acceptable to chew gum in a business situation when interacting with co-workers, clients, or the general public. Gum chewing is a distraction and almost impossible to conceal during conversation, comparable to speaking with your mouth full of food. On occasion, however, I have suggested that a client chew a piece of gum to freshen his or her breath after a pungent meal, when it was impossible to use a toothbrush and paste. The secret is to be discreet: Excuse yourself from the table and chew a stick of peppermint gum in the washroom; then discard it. This way you can enjoy fresh breath and your chewing won't offend others.
—Kelly Machbitz, owner, Totalfashionmakeover.com, Clearwater, Fla.
Q: Can I wear my favorite pair of 4-inch heels to the office?
A: Generally speaking, heels higher than 3 inches are perceived as more suitable for a dance club than an office environment, especially shoes with thin straps that expose more of the foot, as well as shoes with very thin heels. Ditto for footwear in bright colors. If you decide to go higher than a 3-inch heel, opt for a classic, closed-toe pump in a matte leather and neutral color. You might also consider a platform style or wearing pants the same color as your shoes to camouflage the height of the heel.
—Carol Davidson, StyleWorks of Union Square
Q: I have pale skin and I wonder if a spray tan would give me an edge on a job interview. Do you recommend it?
A: Several benefits can come from an artificial tan. For one, a little color may boost your confidence level, which in turn could calm your nerves and help you ace that interview. It may also send the message that you have an active lifestyle and are physically fit—something your potential employer should consider a plus. Just be careful not to overdo it. Straying too far from your natural skin tone could send the message that you are superficial, focused too much on extracurricular activities, and lack strong business ethics. Go only two to three shades darker than your natural skin tone.
—Kelly Machbitz, owner, Totalfashionmakeover.com, Clearwater, Fla.
Q: I love all the bright colors they are showing for spring. Are they office appropriate?
A: No one can deny the merits of neutral-colored business attire, but sometimes we all need a color pick-me-up. This spring, designers are showing citrus shades of orange, yellow, and green as well as coral, pink, and bright blue. Because people perceive brighter hues as bold and playful statements, for a more conservative work environment, less is more. Add brighter colors in small doses by way of a scarf, tie, or handbag. Or you can incorporate more hues in a patterned shirt or blouse and team it with a neutral bottom or jacket. Generally speaking, for business, you will want to avoid wearing bright colors from head to toe.
—Carol Davidson, StyleWorks of Union Square
Q: When a wine glass is placed on a table at a restaurant, how do I signal that I don't want any?
A: Never turn a glass or cup upside down to decline service. If you don't want your wine glass, coffee cup, or water glass filled (or refilled), hold your hand over the glass. If the server fills it before you have a chance to signal no, leave the beverage untouched for removal after the meal.
—Kelly Machbitz, owner, Totalfashionmakeover.com, Clearwater, Fla.
Q: I frequently respond to business e-mails via my mobile device. Must I include a salutation?
A: The type of device you use to send e-mail has little to do with proper e-mail etiquette. Instead, consider your relationship to the recipient, the intended degree of formality, and whether your message is a standalone reply or part of a longer chain of responses. On a first reply when communicating for business, use a salutation that includes the recipient's name, whether it's "Dear Christine," "Hi, Christine," or simply "Christine." While a salutation is unnecessary thereafter, it is considered more formal and appropriate when communicating with a senior associate or an important client.
—Carol Davidson, StyleWorks of Union Square
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