The Career Wardrobe - Dressing to Impress

As D&M’s, we know everything about style “dressing for success,” but the real experts are found at the Career Wardrobe, a leading Philadelphia based organization that provides unique solutions for women gaining a second chance in the workplace. The Career Wardrobe’s mission is “to empower women in transition by providing programs that inspire the confidence necessary to achieve self-sufficiency and pursue a productive career.” It’s about a lot more than just the clothing: “We do this by providing professional work attire, educational programs, and networking tools and opportunities.” It is a total package design to Impress.

Dressing to Impress clearly includes professional attire, but it is about a lot more, being confident. Trained stylists use each appointment as an opportunity to educate women about the importance of professional appearance, personal responsibility, and business etiquette.  They help each client select an interview appropriate outfit suitable for their desired position. Once a position is secured, the client can return for several other mix and match pieces to begin a work-appropriate wardrobe.

Gently worn professional attire and  uniforms are accepted through an ongoing program of clothing drives. Items that are not suitable for professional purposes are sold through TheWardrobe Boutique. Offering everything from formal to casual clothing at discounted prices, the boutique is located at the corner of 19th St. and Spring Garden St. in Philadelphia. 

In addition they provide other services and workshops, such as Suit Up! and Gateway to Success. If you have a keen eye for styling and love shopping this is the perfect place for you to volunteer. The Career Wardrobe offers a variety of volunteer opportunities: fundraising and event planning, facilitating workshops, and my personal favorite, becoming a fashion assistant, aiding the clients in their search for their perfect interview ensemble. The Career Wardrobe needs you and your donations to continue to strive and succeed in helping women to dress to Impress.For more information on how to donate and/or volunteer visit the Career Wardrobe.

First Fridays

Philly has so much art, culture, and fashion in which to indulge. It’s all about getting out and experiencing what this great city has to offer. A favored event to jump into the action is called “First Friday”. “First Friday” goes down monthly on the first Friday of the month from 5-9PM in Olde City. This neighborhood has many galleries and every street has something going on. Vendors are always showcasing their latest goodies, boutiques are bringing in new customers, and the restaurants are some of the city’s best. The scene is causal, light, and the options of entertainment seem endless. Attend “First Friday” you have nothing to lose and all to gain.

Drexel University’s Design and Merchandising alumni have a strong presence in Philadelphia.   
Two stores in Olde CIty, Smak Parlour located at 219 Market Street and Sioux Zanne Messix located at 54 N 3rd Street are both owned by D&M alumni.

The event is so successful that even Northern Liberties has gotten in on the fun. Check out the NoLibs site to get a feel for the Northern Liberties scene. Here you can see which places are offering a 10% discount from 5-9PM. In NoLibs a D&M Alum works for Duke and Winston located at 633 N 2nd Street and a D&M instructor owns Arcadia Boutique located at 819 N 2nd Street. This really is one of the best events to happen in Philadelphia. Not only is it FREE, but it happens all year round rain or shine. So get out there and experience it at first hand, you won’t regret it.