Well, after the thread on Ascot etiquette and the debate about whether hosiery should be worn etc in the Royal Enclosure, it got me thinking....

I have been 'brainwashed' (for want of a better word)and have always worked for companies with very high personal standards, where it was the norm to cover bare legs - even in the 30 degree heat of summer. Whilst we will all admit that sweaty legs and bits are not pleasant where there is no air-conditioning, I still adhere to this standard. Not that my legs are horrendous...in fact, my lower legs are my best bit. But fake tan is too faffy for me. Streaky or not! I also believe that for work (& business) the tops of arms (of all ages, shapes & sizes) should be covered, atleast with a cap sleeve. This debate was also touched upon at Ascot regarding strapless dresses. I suppose dressing for Ascot has always been a big occasion and they have kept their 'traditions'. The old class thing is still apparent and that's why they have had to publish reviewed guidelines. Last year was my first (albeit long overdue) visit to Ascot. I booked general admission tickets and took my chances. It was a great day (shame it rained) but whilst taking shelter in one of the ladies toilet block, I was approached by a girl who said "Oi love, you're too good to be in this bit, you should be with the others" !!!!! I didn't really get it at first, but clearly my dress/outfit spoke volumes without me opening my mouth. So, my message is, think about what impression you need to create when you get dressed in the morning...what do you want (your body as a tool) to achieve? Please do not miss this important non-verbal trick of dressing for success! Just yesterday whilst out in town I had 3 separate comments from strangers complimenting me on how I looked! Not bad for someone who is recovering from spinal surgery. YES, I was doing my research and checking out the latest collections in the High St! Well, someone has to do it!!!

Yes, Fiona i can remember my days in the corporate world as a Field Sales Executive, driving around my patch in 30 degree heat, no air conditioning, suited, and tights or if i could dare, stockings!! now that could start another discussion. I have gone from wearing tights, to the ST Trope spray on tan,and this year my favourite, St Tropez moisturising lotion with a hint of tan, which is excellent and far better than Dove (though more expensive, however, you do get the colour quicker!)

Hi Fiona, Like you I think what we wear and how we wear it speaks volumes, I once had a sales manager who asked what day do you get up and look for an outfit to make you feel down? His point was if you dress in something that makes you feel good you will feel good. I could never get the hang of casual clothes days for work and even now when I work at home always dress in business clothes. The other week I popped into Woodley to bank some cheques. As I walked from the car park a chap behind me passed comment on how smart I looked for shopping, I turned and said I was not shopping but going to the bank... he was stood behind me at the cash point as I used the ATM and laughed saying he thought I had been going to see the Bank Manager because I was so smartly dressed... I took it as a complement and thanked him, its nice to be noticed for the right reasons. You never know when you might bump into your next big customer do you? On the bare legs bit I am fortunate to be dark skinned and can get away with out tights but do always moisturise and have my legs waxed frequently!