Dress For Success styling appointments give Albany women the confidence to return to the workforce

Albany women preparing to return to the workforce had their confidence bolstered this week thanks to a visit from Dress For Success.

The visit, hosted at Albany Bowling Club on Monday and Tuesday, was part of the Perth DFS branch’s outreach program, which is also scheduled to visit Bunbury and Busselton next month.

DFS WA business development manager Rebecca Ruiz said it was important for the organisation to travel to regional areas because there was often less access to work attire.

“As the first impressions really count when showing up for an interview, the clothing piece really helps our clients show up with confidence,” she said.

Scheduled one-on-one appointments saw stylists spend an hour with women seeking help

Each participant left their appointments with at least two outfits to keep, as well as heightened confidence to take into job interviews and major life events.

Ms Ruiz said the one-on-one nature of the appointments meant they were “all about the client”.

“The conversations are important ... when we sit down with the client in the beginning of the appointment we ask some questions about what type of work they are looking for,” she said.

“This means we can tailor the right type of clothing attire.

“We are not just about the clothing, as the styling session is also about the confidence to take the next step in her career journey.”

Women who missed the opportunity to attend this week’s two-day visit are able to seek support through virtual online styling sessions throughout the year.

The virtual sessions are conducted in a similar way to the in-person appointments with clothes being mailed out afterwards.