bbGirl: Jane P.Raleigh, NC

"Every girl’s crazy 'bout a sharp dressed man." That old ZZ Top line was true in the '80s and it still rings true today; we do so love a well-dressed man. If your idea of being sharply dressed includes wearing suits, please remember that your suit should not only be functional but it should also be fashionable. Just because you work in a stuffy corporate setting doesn't mean your sense of style should suffer. I work for a law firm whose dress code policy requires male attorneys to wear suits. Not a problem, except that about half the men here (including those that are under 30 years old) look like less-manly versions of Ward Cleaver; ill-fitting black or gray pants, situated entirely too high on the waist and that are completely formless, and heavily-starched white shirts that would have looked great with Sansabelt pants circa 1985. That might be great if you're trying to score a new client, but it's not going to work if you're trying to score the little fashionista sitting a few doors down.

Don't be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to suit-shopping. Finding a suit with modern details can be easily achieved if you go for a look that incorporates modern tailoring. All suits aren't "born" at Men's Wearhouse, so don't be afraid to try places that aren't just suit stores, such as Banana Republic or French Connection, or at online retailers such as Bluefly and Amazon (both of which carry designer duds at reasonable prices). Not bound by the rigid suit restrictions but still finding yourself stuck in a shirt-and-tie routine? Try gussying up that look by adding a smart knit cardigan or a sporty jacket, both of which can easily be found in any of the places listed above or in hidden places such as thrift shops and vintage stores.

So, take a chance with your wardrobe. No more conservative suits that lack a sense of modernity, personality, and style... unless, of course, that is the look you desire!