This afternoon, Jezebel was so kind as to direct us toward a goddamn ridiculous article on Above the Law called "Summer Associates: Please Don't Dress Like Fashion Victims," where NYU Professor and Noted Sexist Anna Akbari tackles women's fashion in the workplace in the most antiquated way possible. Though, yes, women have at least a trillion more things to consider when it comes to dressing for work — or even worse, for an interview — does this mean the fairer sex should keep playing into stereotypes to get ahead? Probably, yes.
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Akbari, whose bio says she is also a sociologist — and the founder a fashion and image consulting company that boasts "a holistic approach to individual empowerment and identity construction through personal styling and image management" — essentially suggests that women need to play the game if they want to get ahead. First she starts off with this gem:
If you’re going to wear a suit, a skirt suit registers better than a pant suit. In male-dominated fields like law, skirts and dresses are particularly rewarded, as they are more appealing to men. In interview situations in particular, women should always wear a skirt or dress, as it is heavily favored over pants by interviewers (many of whom are men).
Later, she waxes poetic on the power of a good pair of heels. Sort of.
Avoid flats, except in emergencies. They do nothing for your stature or outfit, and they are some of the least powerful footwear you can wear.
Eventually, she graduates to beauty, perpetuating the idea that women need a little gloss to get the job. If you're not infuriated by now, you're doing it wrong.
Wear at least a little bit of makeup. Studies have proven that women in makeup are rewarded in the workplace and perceived as more competent. At a minimum, use mascara and lip gloss — and a little healthy glow on your cheeks can give a nice boost, as well.
Now, as far as jewelry goes, be sure to show off that you have money, and will therefore fit the culture of well-off lawyers. After all, you don't want to look like you don't have a European summer share! You gotta keep up with the men Jones'
No dangly earrings. Statement necklaces are okay, but pair them only with small studs, and without any bracelets or rings (except wedding rings, etc.). Wear only only one or two rings at a time, and skip them altogether unless they’re very high end.
So ladies, if you want to stand out in a more traditional workplace, be sure that your appearance is in tip-top shape, lest you spend time collecting unemployment checks. If you have evidence of equally antiquated advice, please, I beg you, leave the link in the comments section so we can properly plan an uprising.
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h/t Jezebel
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