By Kena Paranjape of In Life & In Fashion

Summer is the time to take fashion risks.  Step out of your comfort zone and find a way to make one or all three of the following trends work for you!

 1. Bright-en up your wardrobe. Add either a drop or a wash of bright to your wardrobe. If you are a black and white kind of girl, start small with a scarf or your fingertips! But if you love colour, now is the time to go for it! Wear bold beautiful colours from head to toe. (Photo courtesy of style.com)

 2. “Make a Statement” Necklace. Hands down the easiest way to update your summer wardrobe. Pair with a tank or tee and you will look effortlessly of the moment. (Burberry necklace available at Holt Renfrew)

3. Reach for New Heights with Platform Shoes. Such is the beauty of the platform shoe – it appears to be much taller than it actually is! This is a trend made for a low-heel gal like me. Head to your favourite shoe store try on a few and walk around the store. You will be surprised! (Shoes available at Piperlime.com)

By Kena Paranjape of In Life & In Fashion

There have been countless articles written on taking your look from the office to a night out with friends.  In truth, there is no need to stash heels or a glittery purse in your handbag to make the transition.  Here are a few simple ways to glam up your look as you head out for a fun evening:

Unbutton an extra button on your blouse and roll up your sleeves. This simple step takes you from conservative to casual (and sexy!) without a wardrobe change.

Switch from simple studs to sparkly, swinging earrings. Keep a few pairs of chandelier or drop earrings in your purse and make the switch before you leave the office.

Apply eyeliner, perfume and lip gloss.  Eyeliner is a simple way to take your look from day to night.  A roll-on or solid perfume will easily fit in your make-up bag and is a signal to you that you are no longer on the company’s time!  Lip gloss is a fantastic multi-tasker.  In addition to applying to lips, dab on cheekbones and brow bones to give your skin that evening glow.

Most importantly, as you walk out of the office leave your over-due projects, tough meetings, and workplace squabbles at the door.  You are on “you time” now!

By Kena Paranjape

Contrary to popular belief, a suit is not always the best wardrobe choice for an interview. If you work, or want to work, in a creative field (fashion, public relations or graphic design are good examples), your choice of outfit can play a key role in getting you the job (or not!).

Imagine you are sitting in the office of the hiring manager trying to sell them on your creative abilities, your experience and your strengths. If you are wearing a buttoned up, conservative suit, your image will not correspond to your words. You want to sell them on YOU – the full package including your style, personality, business savvy and skills.

The key to mastering an outfit appropriate for a creative job is to ensure it conveys your personal style while also remaining polished. Keep either your top or bottom classic, and add personality through colour and accessories. The outfits below are a good place to start.

1. Printed wrap dress, heels and a great bag

2. Wide leg trousers and a silk blouse

3. Pencil skirt, a crisp white shirt and a bold necklace

Creative Job Interview by kena_p featuring Marc by Marc Jacobs blouses

Before heading to any interview, check with the human resources department directly on what would be appropriate. It is in their best interests to help you succeed in the interview. Even better, connect with an employee who can give you insider tips on dress code and style within the company. Finally, whatever you choose to wear, make sure you feel both fabulous and comfortable in it so that your personality and skills shine brighter than your outfit!

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