Dress for Success knows that while you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, sometimes it’s inevitable. That’s why this global organization promotes economic independence for disadvantaged women through the power of professional attire. Beyond just office-appropriate clothes, the organization also provides a network of support and career development tools to help local women succeed in the workplace.

We recently spoke with Diane Riche, the president of the local chapter who also serves as the director of sales and marketing at Loews New Orleans Hotel. We admire Riche’s ability to connect the hospitality industry with service, and with that in mind are taking a closer look at Dress for Success in New Orleans. 

Dress for Success on Magazine Street. (Photo via SuperStyleMe.com)

New Orleans’ Suiting for Success Program

Since 1999, Dress for Success in New Orleans has provided women with the attire to make a powerful first impression at a job interview. Through its Suiting for Success program, Dress for Success provides local New Orleans women with a personal, one-on-one consultation, a professional suit, shoes, jewelry, and personal care products all at a picturesque boutique on Magazine Street. The boutique experience isn’t just about looking good – it’s about feeling good and building confidence from the inside out. And they don’t stop at one suit – Dress for Success provides more outfits for women once they secure employment. From there, women can join the Professional Women’s Group to help them advance their careers even further. Women interested in Dress for Success services can apply through referral agencies like Liberty’s Kitchen, Salvation Army, and many others.

How to Get Involved

There are three main ways to get involved with this awesome organization. First, you can donate. Though the organization typically asks for gently used professional clothes like interview-appropriate suits and blouses, the New Orleans chapter is currently overstocked on clothing (you can check back to see when there’s a need). In the mean time, the chapter is looking for office-appropriate handbags, jewelry, unopened toiletries and makeup, unopened pantyhose, and shoes.

Another way to show your support is through a financial donation. Last, you can donate your time. The local chapter of Dress for Success is hosting volunteer orientations from Sept. 12 through Dec. 16, 2015. Take a look at their schedule to find out when you can participate in this brief training session to get started.