Pastel blue blouses, monochromatic schemes, and pencil skits prevailed on the catwalk at Texas A&M International University’s Career Expo Fashion Show Tuesday, Mar. 2.
Before the fashion show commenced, students and community members received a crash course in what Leadership and Personal Branding Consultant, Sara Canaday, calls the science of branding yourself.
“My approach is the art of science behind professional presence. I spend a lot of time on the why of how we form impressions and how we can manage other’s perceptions of us.”
According to Canaday, individuals will conclude three assessments based on initial appearances: socio-economical status, level of education, and overall desirability.
Canaday rations that attire and grooming, along with demeanor and body language, repeal messages to others and often determine how we will be received.
“Seven percent of what is said matters. 38 percent is based on tone and inflection. 55 percent is impacted by physical and visual communication,” said Canaday, adding, “This isn’t about fashion or being fake. This is about your brand and conveying confidence.”
Under Canaday’s instruction, work casual causalities are avoidable.
“Wear dark, rich colors. Avoid pastels [unless] blue. Blue tones elicit trust and loyalty,” continues Canaday.
“Vertical dressing; it’s the secret men have known for years. Monochromatic, tone on tone, long sleeve shirts, tailored jackets. The eyes go up and down [for] an authoritative look.”
Canaday goes on to advise women to ditch the vampire red nail shade for a more polished, less distracting, neutral color.
The fashion show that followed featured community members and students modeling many of Canaday’s tips.
With strappy shoes deemed inappropriate workplace attire, models wore closed pumps and peep toe wedges.
Structured pencil skits hit the knee and bright flowy tops accentuated otherwise conservative apparel.
From classic black to cream, men donned a series of smart two and three piece blend suits. Men ensembles were accompanied by a variety of ties, including a silk geometric patterned standout.
“I thought it was really helpful for people graduating or even people [working] already. We’re used to dressing as students, jeans and a t-shirt; we need to be more aware. Knowing the differences between casual business and too casual was helpful,” said TAMIU student, Gabriella Polka.
All clothing, products, and cosmetics used were provided by Dillard’s and JC Penny, where according to Laura Martinez, Director of Employer Relations at Office of Career Services at TAMIU, students buying business apparel with a banner I.D. receive a 20 percent discount at Dillard’s and ten percent at JC Penny.
The event was just one of a four day Career Expo series aimed at providing general techniques and strategies to secure a job and succeed in the workplace.
“We had been thinking about different ways for students to enhance their professional image and so then the idea was to provide them with ideas and tips on how to dress,” Martinez said. “[We] want them, their talents and skills, to stand out, versus their clothing.”
(Stephanie Ibarra may be reached at stephie@dusty.tamiu.edu)
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