Love Me Three Times

Its no secret that if you work in sports, after your bills are paid, there aren’t many cookies left in the cookie jar for other items.  Versatility in clothing is important, however its up to you to be creative with your pairings. The blazer has almost become an accessory these days in that you can transform an outfit in seconds. The impact is so great for something that is so subtle. Now, Im the first person to throw a flag and give 10 yards for a repeat offender, therefore my topic today discusses the versatility of a suit coat, aka the blazer. 

1) GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE SUITS

Take your time and do your research when looking for suits.  Suits are cut different for men and women for a reason, so steer away from purchasing something that gives you that androgynous look. I myself cringe at the thought of wearing suits for the fact that they don’t give me enough identity; I don’t feel myself and that’s probably because I look like a 12 year old boy when I wear one…true story.

In 2009 I received a call from the University of Minnesota to interview for a position in their Athletic Department. Having no credibility to my resume other than internships, wearing a suit was the safest approach to winning appearance points. A resume can only do so much to sell you, therefore I had to “play the part” and do the rest for myself without drawing too much attention to myself.  After realizing I had to pack a suit, I 1) threw up in my mouth, 2) did what I do best…shopping! After searching for what felt like 20 years, I finally stumbled into a Banana Republic and made a b line for the suits. Sure they were a little out of my graduate school budget, but you have to look at suit like an investment.  Just like the jacket, a suit itself could be worn three times…..again versatility! As I was buttoning the last button on the jacket in the fitting room, a light, similar to the one that surrounds Jesus, surrounded me and angels started to sing. 

There you have it folks, the first time I bought a suit…..it was fate. 

2) LOVE ME THREE TIMES

In 2010 I flew to Gainesville, Florida to find the love of my life, Tim Tebow….oh yea, and on the side I managed to squeeze in an interview with the University of Florida Athletic Department….details, details. This time around, I was more prepared and felt a little more experienced. On a side note, Gainesville has temperatures that would make any girl with hair spray and a straightener run for the hills, but hey, that’s much better than snow! Chicago 0, Gainesville 1

For this interview I evolved my look not only for the temperatures, but to better reflect my personality. Im not one who enjoys wearing pant suits much, so I thought, why should I change! My combination for the day….dress paired with a blazer. Its important that you do and wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident, otherwise you will give them the opportunity to see right through you. To reference Cathie Black’s book “Basic Black, The Essential Guide for Getting Ahead at Work (and in Life)” again, “Dressing well is not about having the most expensive designer outfit in the room. Its about knowing what the appropriate clothes are, and wearing them with confidence”. Trust your instincts and your judgement!

3) WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS, PUT A BLAZER ON IT

Its no secret that the blazer has evolved into a fashion phenomenon over the past few years; I know my blazer count in the last year has spiked from two to TEN.  You have the classic blazer, the belted blazer, the boyfriend blazer, the modern blazer….this list could go on and put Bubba Gumps list of shrimp to shame! When traveling for work there are two things to be conscious of 1) comfort and 2) your ability to represent your employer outside of the office. Try pairing a blazer with a blouse, jeans and topping it off with a pair of flats. The other alternative would be to pair the blazer with a pair of black leggings and some flat boots. Packing can be a torturous task, so packing something as versatile as a blazer will create more room in your suitcase for other items.

So remember, the next time you are looking to add something to your outfit….PUT A BLAZER ON IT!