Events & Blog

June 28th, 2011

Way to go! You’ve stumbled upon the place to discover style tips, articles, news, and a list of Ditto & Co speaking events.

Upcoming Events

August 3, 2011: Office Organizing Lunch & Learn
Private Event

August 11, 2011: Be Yourself, Brand Yourself & Dining Etiquette Workshop
Private event

August 16, 2011: Cold Water Creek Fall Line Roll Out & Ditto & Co’s Wear This, Not That
Free Public Event, 8:30 am, Mall of America

August 17, 2011: How to Dress your Body Type
Public Event, Family First Chiropractic & Wellness Center

August 22, 2011: Wear This, Not That: a Guide to Professional Attire
Private Event

August 23, 2011: 3 C’s of Dressing Well
Private Event

August 25, 2011: 3 C’s of Dressing Well
Ditto & Co Public Event, Click Here to Register & Learn More

August 31, 2011: 3 C’s of Dressing Well
Private Event in Chicago

September 13, 2011: Style Myth Busters
Twin Cities Live 3pm, Channel 5

September 14, 2011: 3 C’s of Dressing Well
Public Event for Network Buzz (JOIN ME!)

September 17, 2011: Coldwater Creek Event
Public Event, Mall of America Click Here for More Info

September 19, 2011: 3 C’s of Dressing Well
Private Event for HR Professionals only. If you’d like to attend, email info@dittoandco.com

September 22, 2011: NYC Shopping Trip
(Isn’t research just a drag?!)

September 29, 2011: 3 C’s of Dressing Well
Private Event for Trustpoint Financial

October 8, 2011: The Weight Loss Journey: A day of education and an evening of celebration for clinical providers and patients
Public Event, Allina Hospitals & Clinics, Abbott Northwestern

October 13, 2011: Be Yourself, Brand Yourself
Private Event for the International Association of Administrative Porfessionals (IAAP) Twin Cities West chapter

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3 Benefits of Layering Your Look

September 27th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Director of First Impressions

Nothing will transform your look from frumpy or lost to composed, stylish, and professional like layering. In addition to using layering to look more stylish, you can also use layering to adjust to different temperatures and look thinner and taller—now who doesn’t want that?!

Ditto & Co’s  Layering Tips & Tricks

1.  More Layers = More Professional:

During my workshops on dressing I can’t stress enough the importance of layering in professional dress. The more layers you wear, the more professional your look. Simply add a jacket or cardigan to up the ante of your work wear.

2.  Scarves Add Style:

One of the easiest ways to add a little je ne sais quoi  to your look is to add a scarf to your outfit. Choose one that compliments the color of your eyes and instantly transform yourself into someone who looks like they know what the heck they’re doing when it comes to dressing. Consider allowing the ends of your scarf to hang long in front of your torso to add vertical lines that visually slim your body. Opt for a fun pattern or color to create a focal point that draws the eyes up to your face.

3.  Use Jackets and Cardigans to Slim & Camouflage:

Wear your jackets and cardigans open in the front to create vertical lines that make you look taller and thinner. You can also wear jackets and sweaters with ruching or small bands in the back that create the semblance of a little waist to create an hourglass figure look.

Another advantage of adding an extra layer is that, if it drapes nicely, it will cover up that dreaded ‘b’ word. OK – I must say it – back fat, my worst enemy!

I hate it when I wear a shirt and when I see the back of me I spy those unwanted love handles and rolls. Gross. To avoid such a disaster I like to wear a jacket or sweater that easily camouflages that dreaded back fat. I swear, no matter how much I work out it still exists, so instead of hating on it I just cover it up.

image: cashmere boyfriend cardigan, jcrew.com

 

 

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Ditto & Co Speaking and Events

September 23rd, 2011

Gretchen Ditto speaks on topics such as personal branding, business etiquette and professional attire and conducts women-only workshops, such as her most popular, The Three Cs of Dressing Well. See Gretchen in action in the following video, and hear what audiences have to say about her. Click here for a full list of speaking topics.

BOOK GRETCHEN FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT.
To discuss rates and dates please email or call 612.619.5820

 

 

 

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Ditto & Co Solves a Wardrobe Mystery

September 20th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Director of First Impressions

“They” always say that you shouldn’t wear white after Labor Day. But why? I did a little research to try and make sense of the old adage.

To my surprise, I could find no real defense of the “don’t wear white after Labor Day” dictum.

Some suggested that the rule was a part of the refinement of the rising middle class in America. Others suggested that the maxim originally referred only to white dress shoes.

The most compelling argument was founded on the logic that the color white reflects light, thereby diminishing heat, a precious commodity during the harsh Minnesotan winters!

In the end, I decided that there really was no compelling defense of the rule, and I’m no longer going to pay a lick of attention to it—and you shouldn’t either!

To celebrate the wearing of white after Labor Day, I’ve created a guide to wearing the color, despite the cooler temperatures.

Post Labor Day White Rules:

  • Fabric Matters: Pack up your eyelet and the linen, pull out the heavy knits and wools.
  • Invest in something in “Winter White” (this is a great shade for all of the cooler seasons).
  • Put away your white sandals ( I don’t even like white sandals in the summer!).
  • Compliment white jeans with knee-high boots for a fresh fall look.

Remember, Coco Chanel wore white year round, and so can we!

Click Here to see me speaking about white after Labor Day on a recent segment of Twin Cities Live!

image: glitterandgarb.com

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To Tag or Not To Tag

September 14th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Director of First Impressions

During my presentations on business etiquette I share the importance of social media etiquette – but social media etiquette is not just for business associates, it’s for everyone you interact with on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.

One point I always share with my audience concerns the tagging of photos. (For those of you who aren’t exactly sure what I mean, I’m referring to the act of claiming that you or someone else is in a photo on Facebook.)

My general rule of thumb is that you should always get a person’s permission before tagging them. Whether the photo is from spring break, a mission trip to Thailand, a day at the ball park, or a company picnic, asking someone’s permission before you tag them in a photo is the right thing to do. While you do own the picture, you don’t own the right to make the decision for someone else concerning whether or not they want the world to see that picture.

All pictures are created equal. Just because you have a great photo of someone doesn’t mean that you know for sure that they’ll want the world to see it. What if that person has a government job that requires anonymity? What if someone has issues with an ex-boyfriend that stalks them online?

You may be thinking ‘yea right, I don’t have time to get people’s permission!’ – well, then you probably shouldn’t be taking the time to post those pictures in the social media world in the first place.

The great thing about Facebook is that you can ‘un-tag’ yourself. This allows you to control what the world sees. However, it’s not an excuse to tag someone without their permission. Take the time to ask first, and tag second. At the end of the day, life isn’t about the photo, it’s about your relationships with the people in those photos.

Are you interested in more online etiquette tips?

Check out these other helpful articles by Ditto & Co: 

Spring Clean Your Online Image

Easy Email Do’s and Don’ts

How to Create a Polished Online Presence

image: newbizblogger.com

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8 Tips for Dressing the Petite Woman

September 7th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Director of First Impressions

As a “vertically challenged” woman, I’m constantly looking for new and effective ways to lengthen the look of my body and so that I look long and lean vs. short and f – oh, I won’t say it, but short and less than lean. Years of image advising and experimenting have allowed me to discover a number of handy tips for dressing petites in a way that adds height and detracts from our short in stature reality—as I say in my workshops, it’s all about smoke and mirrors, ladies!

The Secret to Looking Slimmer and Taller

  1. Monochromatic Dressing:  Wear a column of color.  Avoid cutting yourself off at the waist with a contrasting color or belt. Wearing boots with a skirt? Match the color of the skirt with the boot.
  2. Fit Matters: Sleeves too long? Pants too long? Well, it’s time to find a good tailor. We can complain all day long about having to pay extra for tailoring, but at the end of the day, it is easier to have something tailored rather than be super tall and not have much choice at all. Keep in mind that if you’re shopping at a nicer store, like Nordstrom, then your hemming will be free.
  3. Wear V-necks. The V-neck is the #1, most-flattering neck line because it creates a vertical line that slims our shape and creates the illusion of height.
  4. Opt for ¾ length sleeves which make our arms look longer than they really are. Full length sleeves can just be overwhelming for us. If you’re already having sleeves shortened anyway, consider having the sleeves shortened to ¾ length. I do this all the time.
  5. Wear high heels. Now, I’m not suggesting that you run out and find the tallest, most dangerous pair of stilettos possible—I’m only suggesting that you find a few current, comfortable, and cute pairs that are easy to wear with your typical wardrobe. (Check out My Blog on How to Find a Comfortable Heel)
  6. Carry an appropriate sized hand bag. If you carry a huge tote around all the time you may look like you have luggage with you. A small to medium size bag will do you more favors than a huge one. I do make exception for my computer bag – someday I’ll have a computer as petite as I am, until then, I find the cutest computer bag available.
  7. Avoid Large Patterns. Just as large people should avoid small patterns, we need to avoid large patterns because they overwhelm us and our outfits will end up wearing us, instead of us wearing them. Not good.
  8. Shop in the petite department. Nordstrom has a great one – and they do hemming for free.

When you open up your closet tomorrow morning, keep these tips in mind and achieve a look that has you looking like you grew 4 inches overnight!

 

photo: refinery29.com

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The Fine Art of Business Casual for Men

August 30th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Director of First Impressions

Expectations for business wear have drastically changed over the past few years. Some organizations even have standards that reject the clothing formalities we would have considered to be mainstays just half a decade ago. Take Google, for instance, whose company dress code is the hilariously succinct statement, “You must wear clothes.”

Most of us probably don’t work in an environment where anything goes. Instead, we’re left to tackle the confusion and gray areas that accompany the title business casual. But what exactly falls under this category? Read on to learn the rules of business casual for men.  If you’re in an environment that supports hoodies and jeans, take it upon yourself to step of the level of style.

The Rules of Business Casual for Men

  • Ties = Optional
  • Dress pants are preferable, but khakis are a solid fallback
  • A sport coat and dress shirt without a tie is your best business casual option
  • Polos under sport coats are OK in the summer
  • In winter, sweaters are a good option to layer under your sport coat
  • No tennis shoes (unless you’re attending the company softball game)
  • No hats
  • Clothes should always fit appropriately (are your sleeves and pant legs the right length?)
  • Dress shirts should always be clean – shirts with stubborn stains or ring around the color should be retired.
  •  Shirts should always be pressed.  If you don’t want to spend a lot of quality time with the iron, then opt to have your shirts professionally laundered.  This may be one of the most important investments toward a promotion or raise.
  • Your mug should always be clean-shaven
  • Shoes should be in good shape and shined (Click Here for Ditto & Co’s Guide to Men’s Shoes)

Interested in stocking up on some foolproof slacks and shirts? Learn about my J. Hilburn Custom Clothing Offerings Today

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Fair Food Earns Top Points (in a bad way)

August 25th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Director of First Impressions

photo: www.flickr.com/photos/hnag150/2798478064/

It’s that time of year again, the air cools, kids go back to school, and Minnesotans start to salivate over everything ‘on-a-stick’ that can be found at the State Fair. Throw those diets aside, it’s time to let the belts loosen, throw on the elastic waistband pants, and chow down.

Or, if you’re like me – a lifetime member of Weight Watchers – you may want to understand what you’re getting into. Weight Watchers is based on a ‘points’ system, so every food is assigned a point value based on calories, fat, protein, fiber, and carbs. It’s an easy way to track and manage how much you can eat on a daily basis. Some people, based on their size, can eat 18 points a day, and others 36 points. I won’t bore you with further details, but here is a quick rundown of points for some State Fair favorites.

Popular Fair Food

WeightWatchers Points
Bloomin’ Onion (depending on sauce) 35-60
Caramel Apple 8-10
Single Cheese Curd 4
Small Corn Dog 8
Curly Fries (7 oz, no sauce) 16
Foot-Long Hotdog 13
Bucket of Fries 100
Fried Twinkie 14
Funnel Cake (depending on toppings) 20-26
Gyro 16
Bag of Mini Doughnuts 26
Nachos with Cheese 9
Soft Pretzel 9
Single Sweet Martha Cookie 3
Turkey Leg with Skin 28

It looks like it’s decision making time, my fellow fair-goers. May the most delicious junk food win!

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Fall Wardrobe Transition: Don’t Reinvent the Wheel, People!

August 22nd, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Director of First Impressions

The days get shorter, the evenings get cooler – yes, the end of summer can sometimes be a period of mourning. Say goodbye to the beach and the hot summer nights. However, most of us, especially in the Midwest, love the onset of fall. We trade in the heat and humidity for crisp air and brilliant blue skies. I even saw a leaf turning colors the other day when I was out walking my dog, Fred. Yay!

In addition to getting excited about the cooler weather, I also get excited about fall clothes. I always find it a bit easier to dress more professional and put together in the fall. I’m not sure if it’s the color of fall clothing, or the weight of the fabrics, or both.

What I do know is that the transition from summer to fall takes a bit of thought. Here are a few tips that can help you transition so that you can think less about what to wear and spend more time enjoying the change of season.

Tool #1: Scarves
Scarves, both light and heavy, are great tools for staying just a little bit warmer as the temperature begins to drop. Wearing a scarf not only adds instant chic to your look, but it also provides the added warmth that allows you to continue to wear your favorite lighter tops and dresses.

Tool #2: Layers
I always recommend layers for a more put together look but it can be a challenge in the summer heat. Now is a great time to take some of those cute summer tops and add a a light jacket or sweater over them, allowing them to last a bit longer!

Tool #3: Tights
Tights and stockings add a surprising amount of warmth to your outfit. An added benefit of tights is the way that you can use them to slim your figure, add contrast to your outfit, and accent your shoes or clothes.

Tool #4: Boots
Adios strappy sandals, hello sassy boots! From dresses to shirts to jeans, boots allow your summer staples to go the distance. Beware of ankle boots or boots that hit you mid calf – these can make you look shorter and heavier.  Opt for a boot that hits you at the knee. If you do wear shorter boots, make sure your tights match the boot color so that it creates a continuous flow of color – this will make you look slimmer.

Two Summer Shoe Trends that Carry into Fall:
There’s no need to immediately pack away your new favorite nude heels or espadrilles just because the leaves are falling. Consider pairing nude heels with skin-toned pantyhose to keep legs warm. And don’t forget that nude heels or espadrilles are a no-fail look when paired with a great pair of jeans.

DON’T FORGET: Take a moment early this fall to decided whether or not any of your favorite summer wardrobe items need replacing—now is the best time to shop end-of-season sales for replacements!

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Are You Interview-Ready?

August 15th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Image & Personal Branding Advisor

I’ve outlined the way to dress for your interview, along with the things you should bring. Now for the handy dandy pre-interview checklist: Print it out and keep it at your desk at home.  Review the checklist several days in advance of your interview so you have time to complete the items on the list.  I hope this list is helpful to you!

Pre-Interview Checklist:

  • Do you have the right attire?
  • Do you have the right overall look? (hair, facial hair, make-up, nails)
  • Name(s) of the person/people with which you’re interviewing?
  • Do you know the exact location of the interview?
  • Is your transportation ready?
  • Do you have directions to your interview?
  • Do you have copies of your resume on good resume paper?
  • Do you have a proper pen, and does it work?
  • Do you have something to take notes on (preferably a Padfolio)?
  • Do you have a nice and current briefcase/bag (no purses please!)?
  • Did you eat something before you left (but avoid garlic and onions)?
  • Abstain from smoking – they can smell it despite the mints or gum.
  • Go easy on the perfume/cologne. Better yet, don’t wear it.
  • Did you research the company?
  • Have you created good questions to ask about the position/company?
  • Have you researched the person interviewing you (LinkedIn is a great source for information that will allow you to build a rapport)?

Answer “yes” to each of these questions and you’re interview-ready!

Click Here for Ditto & Co’s Guide to Men’s Interview Attire

Click Here for Ditto & Co’s Guide to Women’s Interview Attire

Click Here for Ditto & Co’s List of Essential Things to Bring to an Interview

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What to Bring to an Interview (besides your sweaty palms!)

August 4th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Image & Personal Branding Advisor

(image: kennethcole.com)

In previous posts I outlined the makings of great interview attire. So you look like a million bucks—but what should you bring with you? I’ve got that covered too!

Interview Essentials

  • Your personality (of course)
  • For both men and women: don’t carry a purse, or murse, respectively. Bring a business bag or briefcase (a great place to shop for a professional and quality business tote at an affordable price: TJ Maxx or Marshalls)
  • A Padfolio on which to take notes
  • Business cards (makes sure you have business cards of good quality. You can find these at your local printer or vistaprint.com)
  • A nice pen.  You can find one that looks fancy and professional for as little as $6 at an office supply store (unless it’s an industry norm to have an expensive pen).
  • Multiple copies of your resume and cover letter on quality paper
  • Your phone (on silent or completely off)
  • Examples of your work that are relevant to the position for which you are applying
  • Tide stain-remover pen (in case of emergency)
  • A mirror and any makeup you may need to reapply before the interview
  • Breath mints—keep it fresh!
  • Floss (it never hurts to double-check your teeth before you enter a meeting!)

Keep these items on-hand before and during your interview in order to sidestep a myriad of potentially interview-wrecking snafus or disasters. All of these things aside, the most important thing you can bring to your interview is you’re A-game—go get ‘em!

 

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