- Use a new color lipstick. Refreshing your look can’t get any simpler than this, and you can spend as little as $6 or as much as $30. A great lipstick can make you feel more alive and vivacious, poised, sexy, and feminine. To really update or refresh your look, go for something in contrast to what you’ve been wearing. This spring, bold color lips are what’s “in”; especially orangey colors like corals and orange-reds.
- Add trendy accessories. Accessories can do wonders to awaken your look so you feel stylish and chic. Being a career women doesn’t mean you have to look dull and boring at work – maybe a chunky broach on your dress or suit, or a skinny belt – wide if you want to be even more fashion forward - around the waist of a suit or dress. Or, maybe your focus is on updating your weekend style. To infuse some flare, consider adding a few of this spring’s new looks like, a drawstring bucket bag (blue and teal bags are hot this season), clear jewelry, the updated clog, or a fringed metal necklace. What about accessories that you can still “rock” from prior seasons? An edgy gladiator sandal, an eye-catching cuff bracelet, or chic ballet flats are all still fashionable.
- Opt for color. Wearing colors that compliment your skin tone is a surefire way to make you look and feel fabulous and more confident. And think about it, you don’t pay any extra to wear a suit, dress, or shirt in a color that is flattering. Although a “little black dress” and basic black business suit are must haves, don’t be afraid to add a “pop” of color. Maybe a pair of ruby red sling-back pumps, a bright yellow bag, or a multi-color scarf. This spring, vibrant colors worn solo or in unpredictable combinations (like orange and purple or teal and yellow) are what’s current. You’ll see lots of floral and graphic prints. Also, “spice” colors will be prominent this spring – think cinnamon, sage, and curry.
Change your “hairdo.” It’s amazing what a great hairstyle or color can do to refresh your overall look. Although you may feel apprehensive at first, try changing things up from your norm. If your hair is dark, try lightening it up with some highlights for the spring/summer months. If your hair is long, embrace a short cut. And, nowadays if your hair is short, you can go long by simply adding extensions, which is still a hot trend. One style you’ll be seeing this spring is the bun worn casual or polished and sophisticated.- Shop your closet. Can you believe it! The “80/20 Rule” also applies to women’s closets. What this means is that generally speaking, 80% of the time, women only wear 20% of the items in their closets. As a result, the vast majority of items are just taking up space. If you have a tight budget, this represents an opportunity to refresh your look without having to spend a dime. All you have to do is find new ways to pair existing pieces in your closet together.For your professional wardrobe, one quick trick is to break up your suits to make multiple outfits. Another option for achieving new looks from your existing wardrobe is to alter a few pieces – maybe shortening a skirt; just in time for this summer’s mini trend. While this does cost you, it can still be less expensive than purchasing something new.
While you are in your closet, take advantage and do some spring-cleaning by getting rid of items you haven’t worn within the last two seasons, that don’t fit you properly, and that aren’t in good, wearable condition.
Annette Harris is the president of Harris ImageWorks, LLC a professional image consulting business based in the D.C. metro area. Services include personal shopping, wardrobe management, closet audits, color, style & figure analysis, and personal brand development for both men and women. Corporate and group seminars are also offered. www.harrisimageworks.com
If you have a question for Annette you can reach her on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
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written by Rebecca , March 27, 2010
written by Rebecca , March 27, 2010
I'm known as a khaki kind of girl, but Annette's article has inspired me to add more color to my wardrobe. And I've bought some new lipsticks too! Great article, Annette! Looking forward to reading more!! 
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written by Monica W , March 17, 2010
written by Monica W , March 17, 2010
I'm now inspired to add some color splashes to my wardrobe this spring. Thanks for your timely tips that will help me shine inside and out!
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written by C. Taylor , March 13, 2010
written by C. Taylor , March 13, 2010
Great information! As a mother of 3 this information will really help me jump start and refresh my look for the spring.
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written by Golden Girl , March 11, 2010
written by Golden Girl , March 11, 2010
Probably like everyone else, I am tired of the cold snowy weather and ready for spring. These short easily doable tips give me a head start to thinking about quick ways to make changes with the warm weather. I particularly like the hair tip and will probably see what I can do to refresh my spring look with a new hairdo. A new lipstick is also a definitely do!
Helpful article.
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Helpful article.
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written by Kim H , March 08, 2010
written by Kim H , March 08, 2010
Great article...practical, yet powerful!
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written by GeeMcNeil , March 08, 2010
written by GeeMcNeil , March 08, 2010
Smart advice to unleash your creativity this Spring! I especially like item #5 - Shop your Closet. I am delighted each time I stumble across some forgotten pieces in my closet.
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