MMI Watercooler
Dressing The Part On Halloween (And Everywhere Else)
by Patty Briguglio on 11/05/2010
The trick-or-treaters that came to my house this Halloween made it all too clear that today’s youth simply do not understand boundaries and appropriateness when it comes to “dressing the part.” Too many times I saw a young girl dressed in something you would not see on someone outside the red light district. Sometimes, they were accompanied by a parent! If you are young enough to trick or treat, you are too young to wear a low-cut Paris Hilton or sexy witch costume.
Girls, listen to me: you do not have to be a naughty black cat in 2011. Just be a black cat. It is this easy.
Why are today’s girls and young women duped into dressing like tramps? What happened to being a princess, doctor or butterfly one night a year?
More important, what are we teaching our kids about how to dress – or act?
There is a public relations lesson here. Many times I am surprised at the clothing choices many women – and even men – make on local TV broadcasts. At MMI, we have specific instructions for our clients on more than just what not to say in front of the camera. For instance, you will be hard-pressed to find an MMI client wearing stripes during an ABC11, WRAL NBC 17 or News 14 Carolina interview.
I would never let a female client wear low-cut cleavage on TV. It is simply inappropriate, and I do not want to contribute to what clearly is a pervasive, carefree attitude about attire for today’s young women.
The next time you watch a TV news broadcast, pay close attention to what the anchors and reporters are wearing. Most station managers I know would not allow their on-air talent to wear revealing clothing. You should aim to dress in a similar, conservative manner. Believe it or not, it is still possible to be fashionable while retaining your dignity.
Perception is reality. I do not want to see a crowd of scantily dressed girls on my doorstep on Halloween. It is wise to take the same conservative approach if you are going to present in front of people or be on camera.
Image source: Mansour de Toth
