My thoughts on life, relationships, and everything else!

Sunday, January 30, 2005

Why I think Condelezza Rice's outfit last sunday was a political DON'T!

Patent leather stiletto boots? Black pantyhose? Above the knee skirt? These are all cute items. But when out together on the secretary of state? This is a disaster. I'm not saying that someone in a political standing shouldn't dress stylish or trendy, but I think they should try to make it look very professional and put together, not mix it with un kept hair that looked like the normal plastic style she sports with a huge misplaced chunk, or an asymmetrical shirt under a jacket. What does all of this fashion critique have to do with her ability as secretary of state? More than you realize.

When I was studying to be a legal assistant, I had to apply at several law offices to try to get a job as a legal secretary. I went in a stuffy suit with overly modest shoes, plastically perfect blonde hair , and was told I look like lawyer Barbie. The best advice I ever got from a lawyer was this: your appearance, presence, and charisma are just as important as your education. Without those things you won't get very far. And its true! After that I went to interviews in fitted suits with trendier pieces like a mini or boot cut slacks, but I toned it down with conservative accessories and hair and instantly peoples opinions changed from legally blonde syndrome to ready for Law school. In the world of law and politics your initial impression is everything. Now back to Ms. Rice. Every time I see her, she seems to lack all of the things I mentioned. She either dresses way too corporate, or way too trendy, plus she seems to lack the emotion to her voice needed to really convey messages. Its amazing to me how things you wouldn't assume matter, really do.