Maybe you've heard of "Deep Thoughts by Jack Handy" (am I showing my age?) Well this is "Random Thoughts by Jodi Skorupski. Less catchy... I know.

First, for the ladies...

Need scientific proof that showing cleavage in the workplace undermines your credibility? Well, according to Louann Brizendine, M.D., author of The Male Brain, in a recent appearance on the Rachael Ray Show, when a man sees a woman's cleavage it stimulates a part of the brain called the "Area for Sexual Pursuit". Translation... when you bring the "girls" out at a meeting, your male counterparts don't care how accomplished you are, how much money you've brought into the company or how many degrees you have on your wall. At that moment you... and your boobs... are sexual objects. Think about that the next time you get dressed to go to work or a professional function.

I am a firm believer, and it's been proven, that our appearance tells other people something about us. It's important to control that message by being conscious of what your appearance is saying. There are few situations where this fact is as critical as in the workplace or business functions. If you have a top that is a little too low-cut but you want to be able to wear it, a quick fix is wearing a camisole style tank top underneath that comes up higher than your cleavage. Like this one from Ann Taylor:

Second, for the gents...

"Trimmin' the bush to make the tree look taller"........

...........

I just wanted to let that line sink in for a second.

Gillette, owned by Procter & Gamble, wants to make it easier for you to be a well groomed man... and buy more of their razors while you're at it. They want to make it so easy for you that they have animated "how to" videos on YouTube.com. And just in case you're interested, or have unsuccessfully attempted, they also have a video on how to shave your groin area to... and I quote... "trim the bush to make the tree look taller". You can't make this stuff up!!

Check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TiJNewpCnY

As always, I'm happy to answer any style question or conundrum you might have. Either leave a comment on this post or email me at: jodi@stylesuccess.net, I hope to hear from you!

Have a great week!

This week's a 2-fer! First I would like to bring your attention to the changing of the seasons. Not just outside (do my eyes deceive me or is that sunshine out my window?!) but also in the stores. And that means SALES! Now is a great time to get deals on items that will be every bit as in style next fall/winter as they were this one. I recommend looking for items like leather boots, coats, cashmere sweaters and other expensive items that you might be reluctant to buy at full price. Now is your chance to get them on sale!

Second, I want to respond to a comment question from last week's blog. The question was how to deal with blisters, especially since boat shoes should be worn without socks. There are a few things you want to consider and try.

1. Are the shoes real leather or imitation? Imitation leather tends to cause more blisters than real leather.

2. Are the shoes the right size and width? If shoes are too small (or large) this can intensify the abrasion, causing the blisters.

3. Is the leather/fabric against the heel stiff? If yes, then you can bend and manipulate it with your fingers or use a shoe stretcher.

4. Lastly, if you already know that the shoes have caused blisters or are afraid they might, you can put a piece of moleskin on the ankle, or where ever the abrasion occurs, to keep the shoe from rubbing against the skin. Once the shoe has been broken in you should be able to wear them without blistering.

Hope that helps!

Wishing everyone a great week!

Remember, your appearance sends a message to everyone you meet. If you're afraid you're sending the wrong message, or know someone who is, maybe it's time for a personal style consultation. Check out my site at http://www.stylesuccess.net!

Tuesday Tips & Tricks: Random Thoughts

Tuesday Tips & Tricks: Buy & Bye