In times of bad economy and struggles for career opportunities, you're very glad you still have your Marketing Executive position. You have everything: a degree, brains, you don't look bad at all, you have a boyfriend, a wonderful family, good friends, and everyone at work adores you. You are the go to person at the office and you are sharp, prepared, and always one step ahead of others.

This is all amazing for you except for one pebble in your shoe - Sandra your peer, who annoys the bejiggles out of you. She's tardy, comes in at 10am when everyone else gets in latest at 9.15am. Her face looks almost plastic from the mass layer of chemicals known as make-up, and her hair? Who does she think she is? Ivana Trump??? No wonder she takes so long to get ready. And what is up with her 4-inch heels? She's 7 ft tall, skinny, probably anorexic.. so why bother? Ok fine so she's 5'9" and she has some makeup skills. Anyway who can work like that? And why would she wear a suit to work - she isn't even in a senior position!

Are you jealous of her?

Deep down, you are sure of who you are and are determined to do what you intend to do to climb the ranks steadily to the top of your company. But she seems to be getting there quicker and the bosses love her eventhough your colleagues are easily offended by her presence. You have no idea why it bothers you so much. You know your intelligence will get you places - but is it enough?

Indeed you question yourself, why her? Why haven't I been the apple of their eyes, is it because I don't look like a model and she does? You are determined to eliminate the competition and rise up to where you should be.

The psychology of humans is such, that well-groomed people are more often than not ALWAYS looked upon first, for reasons being they are easy on the eyes, and it is pleasant to look at, talk to, and be around them. It's a fact. Pretty people make you feel better - especially when they are not as smart as you! They don't necessarily have to be gorgeous or model-ish, just well presented. It exudes an air of confidence and self esteem, to be able to go to work everyday and make the effort to look good and fresh.

We know its a sad world out there, with everything becoming more commercialized and material, while you are set in your ways and are comfortable the way you are. But the only problem is that you aren't being noticed.

It's time we get you a power suit.  Suits are a little formal and yes you could feel a tad stuffy if you wore it out and the weather got influenced by a sauna. But instead of bringing a cardigan to work all the time, leave a jacket that you know would match most of your clothes in office. Your jacket should fit well, accentuating your curves, and able to show a little of your cuffs.

Suits are only the beginning to dressing well for work. Begin collecting items to wear that empower you at work. It does not only make you feel great, it gets you noticed.

Shirt: If you usually wear a simple long/semi-long button up shirt and a pair of black slacks or skirt to work, it's high time to get out and own something more striking. Instead of picking out cotton button ups, why not try a yellow silk top to go with your black slacks?

Pants: Slacks are easy to find, as long as they fit you nicely and aren't too short or long at the ankles area. High waisted pants are in tune with the times so you might want to get a pair of those.

Skirts: Your black skirt should look smart and if possible, high waisted to create the 'long legs' look.

Shoes: Get a bloody pair of 4 inch heels already!

a) Experiment with colours - chilli red, bright blue, green, yellow, silver, and gold.
b) Your heels don't necessarily need to be high, but the higher the heel, the (obviously) taller you'll look
c) Flat heeled shoes should be worn with your pants

Bag: As long as you have a decent black bag that suits any occasion, you'll be fine. However you may want to add a variety of bags with different shapes and colour to match your different ensembles. They need not be expensive, just tasteful and simple.

Scarf: The perfect accessory to avoid having to bring your wooly grey cardigan to work. Avoid the ones that have the 'fade out' pattern and get something that would go with most of your clothing.

Suit: Every woman should own at least ONE suit jacket.

a) It should accentuate your curves
b) Avoid getting the loose types which make you look bulky and drab
c) Make sure the sleeves come up to your wrist so they don't take over your hands.
d) You can wear a vest if you feel that suits are too formal.