Edith Head is perhaps the greatest costume designer of the 20th century. She has won eight academy awards (more than any other woman) and is often cited as Alfred Hitchcock’s favorite costume designer. She worked on movies such as “Roman Holiday”, “The Birds”, “Sabrina”, “Sullivan’s Travels”, and “She Done Him Wrong”. Her book, “How To Dress For Success”, is a must read for every woman who wants success in their wardrobe as well as their life. Although life has changed since 1967, her advice can still be applied in 2013.
1. “Decide what kind of job you really want and prepare yourself for it… Be well groomed and look like a girl or woman who would be a credit to the firm. Then do a good job!”
2. “Don’t masquerade in clothes that you hate just to attract a man. Be sure you are really, deep-down his type of girl. If you aren’t – find another man.”
3. “Think in terms of a livable wardrobe – one that is not only aesthetically pleasant, but one that works for you, that you feel good in and that makes you look right in every situation.”
4. “Analyze your physical assets and liabilities. Capitalize on the assets. Overcome the liabilities through the ‘Three C’s System’ (Cover-up, Conceal, Camouflage).”
5. “Remember that good health and a happy spirit can take years off your age – and the right clothes can keep them off.”
6. “Analyze and get to know which basic figure type you are… Dress for success by wearing clothes that have been proven best for your type.”
7. “Color can make you look slimmer, heavy, short, tall, younger, mature, smarter, and dowdy.” (The book has an extensive color chart based on skin color, hair color, and eye color).
8. “Develop confidence in your appearance and dress to match that confidence. Think beautiful.”
9. “Experiment with accessories to stretch your wardrobe… but don’t overdo it.”
10. “Dressing your mind for success is the first step toward achieving your goal. Dress it with decision, not confusion… Nothing succeeds like success.”
Sources: How To Dress For Success by Edith Head with Joe Hyams
