Pantyhose, to be or not to be – that is the question… that continually comes up when I’m speaking to Millenials. During a recent presentation, one of the young ladies asked about wearing pantyhose, aka ‘hosiery’, ‘stockings’ to an interview and did I recommend them.
I believe instead of being a rule of Etiquette or Protocol, it has evolved into something much more complicated. I personally think it boils down to a number of things:
- Before the interview, do some research on the company culture. If the atmosphere is conservative and traditional, then bust out the hose. If the organization is more casual and a bit on the trendy side, I’d say bare legs would be acceptable.
- Generational issues; if your Grandmother is a Traditionalist, she would not even consider stepping out in public with bare legs. Stockings are a must for her wardrobe! So if you’ll be with a more ‘mature’ (meaning older) group, then out of respect I would don hosiery.
- Are your legs able to stand on their own without the gentle camouflage or support that stockings provide?
- Time of year – will your legs have goose bumps and be pasty … Summer – not a problem. Winter, bleh – opt for hosiery.
- Flat out preference – Some people feel more confident WITH stockings, other people can’t stand them.
My answer to her in the end was to do a bit of research. As she’s preparing for her interview and researching the company, go ahead and find out what the company culture is when it comes to dress code; and let that be her guide. And if there is any question, it’s best to err on the safe side and slip on some stockings.
After that, I suggested that all of the ladies search the Internet for pictures of the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton! (Spoiler alert, she often wears hosiery!) I love her sense of style. She’s a great role model for young professional women in so many ways. And I love how she doesn’t have to break the bank to look good. You can easily find Kate’s preferred choice of pantyhose by googling the topic. In case you’re curious, they run about $9US. Sensible, smart and fashionable – she’s a great role model to follow for clothing cues.
Click to Tweet: Kate Middleton is a great role model for professional women looking for clothing cues! #MannerMonday http://bit.ly/ProfDressHosiery
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As always – Thanks for reading!
– Carey Sue
On another note…
Business Etiquette Training Opportunity
Executive Success Series
Research shows that 85 percent of success in the business world hinges on your soft skills, and only 15 percent on your technical skills. Yet many people do not take the time to invest in the most critical part of their professional training, the crucial social skills that enhance your ability to communicate, negotiate, and lead which helps you build relationships and close deals. Are you ready to invest in your 85 percent?
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Youth Programs
Registration is under way for our 5-12th grade programs that start soon. Don’t miss out – register today!
For more information click on the links below:
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General Information
www.ExpeditionsInEtiquette.com
Did you know we have products available?
We have a few of styles and designs of personalized youth stationery available. We also have darling place mats that help the little ones in your life get a jump-start on their table manners and make dining more fun. Here is the link to the shop.
