I have been following Chelsea Peitz on Instagram for over a year and am so impressed with her style, brand, and social media expertise. Chelsea works for Fidelity National Financial, a Fortune 300 company, where she is a Social Media Coach and teaches employees how to use social media to build a brand. She knows her stuff and I have used many of her tools and advice to help grow my presence on Instagram, Facebook, and Linkedin. She shares great tips and suggestions for understanding social media and how to keep up with all the changes that are happening. One thing I really noticed about her is her style and her brand. She dresses feminine and professional where ever she goes. I’m very honored she allowed me to interview her and share some of her style tips.
I dress extremely professional and on the side of modest. I rep a big company and want to appear professional but still stylish. I travel a lot and always want to be comfortable. I tend to wear a jacket with slacks but not always coordinating. Since I give a lot of presentations in conference rooms I always bring a jacket because it’s so cold in there.
Since I travel a lot, I tend to buy jackets or slacks in different shades of blue. I like to wear a lot of neutrals as well. I like to stay in these same color families because they all go together, and I can buy a blazer and know I can wear it with a couple of slacks and shirts.
When I was starting out and building my professional wardrobe, I was price conscientious. I would search out sales and clearance racks to find good deals on quality pieces that would last a season or two. I would also make sure the store or brand fits me well and I knew I would be comfortable in the different garments. I would even buy a jacket if it wasn’t in season because I could wait a couple of months and then wear it. I do recommend investing in well-made pieces like a dress or jacket because it feels great too when you wear something made for you in a better quality. You can find professional clothing on a budget and just make sure to buy it when you see it.
I always wear heels because I like to feel feminine. I am all about comfort first and then style since I’m always on my feet giving presentations or meeting with clients. I prefer to wear pantsuits vs skirt suits and don’t usually wear dresses. I will wear a sheath dress paired with a jacket because I like a sleeve. I think it looks more professional.
Since I tend to wear more pantsuits, I don’t wear pantyhose. When I do get ready for when I’m speaking on stage, I keep in mind where I am going to be on stage. Am I sitting on a low chair or a high stool? Where is the microphone placement? If I wear a one-piece dress that may not work for the microphone. I usually wear a pant onstage paired with a heel but not a high one because I will be standing a lot. I make sure the pants are at the right length for the heel.
I really don’t dress casual and really enjoy dressing up. How I dress and present myself is part of my brand. It goes beyond just when I am on stage; it’s a lifestyle. When I travel, I always dress professionally. How you dress should embrace your personality and expectations of your audience. It’s all about your brand and how you want people to remember you. It’s a lifestyle for me.
I pick a bag that works for me rather than impressing other people, especially for business. I suggest you pick a good quality bag, it can be designer, and invest some money in it. I don’t switch out my handbag unless I’m going out in the evening for cocktails or a gala. I tend to pick a bag that is more functional and timeless. I’ll spend good money on a classic bag vs something trendy.
You shouldn’t wear anything on stage that doesn’t fit right or is uncomfortable.
When you’re on stage, you don’t want to be pulling on your clothes or something that doesn’t fit right. It’s distracting to the audience and yourself. You want the audience to focus on what you are saying and not you pulling on your dress.
I always wear flats when I travel and carry heels in my purse. It’s more comfortable especially when sitting on the plane. Plus, my feet tend to swell and flats are much more comfortable. I’ll just change my shoes in the uber.
It takes me about 10 minutes to do my makeup every morning. It’s so routine for me because I used to be a makeup artist. All you need is practice and try the same look every day. The older I get, I adjust my look slightly. Right now I’m trying a bolder lip color and loving it. I recommend everyone to have their staple colors or look and know what looks right on you.
Don’t be afraid of going bold. When I first started, I was afraid to. But if done in the right way, it can help create a brand for you. Clothing is an extension of your brand and if your brand is big and bold, then wear clothing that looks energized and happy. Buy clothing that is the right look for your brand and message.
Photos by Gary Helland
