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Recruitment consultancy director Jane Lewis says dress codes have relaxed considerably over the past two decades but believes there are still ways to make your wardrobe work for you.
One things Jane Lewis has learned during more than 20 years in the human resources and employment consulting business is that, when it comes to a working wardrobe, there really are no hard and fast rules.
"People want to work with, and deal with, people they like," says Lewis, the director of 9am People, a boutique recruitment consultancy. "You need to maintain a professional image - that is smart, tidy and above all, appropriate - but if someone is forced to wear something that doesn't work with their personality, it just stifles who they really are.
"First impressions count - but you don't want to be intimidatingly dressed up," explains Lewis, who reckons she's seen dress codes relax since she started work in this area. Her suggestions for success? Find out as much as you can about the person or firm you are seeing - and the level of formality required in your wardrobe. Then decide what to wear.
Who are your favourite designers?
Lynda Maskery of Solo Design. Lynda has taught me many things, including that the most expensive items in my wardrobe were those I had never worn. Bargains they were - but hideous once I got them home!
Your favourite accessory?
My favourite accessories are three wonderful, large, chunky rings which a friend of mine imports from Paris, Jen Smith of La Source. I think my rings add a quirky element to what I am wearing.
Most stylish city?
New York. Wonderful food, great shopping and so much to stimulate the senses. Did I mention the shopping? I'm not into spending a day shopping for a special number, I find it boring, so imagine my surprise when I found a small store where I was happy to spend hours. I was in ecstasy, trying on piece after piece and feeling great about it all.
I won't say how many pieces I bought but they sent out for coffee for my husband.
Is there anything you'd never wear?
I read a lovely bit in a book called Almost French. It's a true story about an Australian journalist who meets a Frenchman while travelling and ends up living with him in Paris. One morning she is going to the baker to pick up breakfast supplies wearing a tracksuit. Her partner stops her, telling her to think of the baker. So now I too think of the baker (and the dairy owner).
What do you wear to work?
A few years ago I would only wear a traditional suit. Now there is more licence to express yourself in the business world, which is great.
Most cherished item?
I was walking home from work one night while living in London and I spied the most wonderful black dress. It was in the window of a men's clothing shop. Confused but intrigued I went into the store and tried it on. The store staff said their buyer had liked it so much he'd bought the garment for their store, even though they sold men's clothing. And this dress was sexy and sleek. It felt wonderful on so I bought it.
Most overrated item in fashion?
High-heeled, pointy shoes. They look fabulous on others but they are so uncomfortable to wear and so perilous. I used to teeter up and down Wellington's hills in hellishly high-heeled shoes. Not sure how I did it, but I can't now.
