Q: Most employees know that company handbooks are legal documents written by the company's law firm. Everything in them has to be politically and legally correct, which makes some of the sections on dress codes sound obscure, general and sometimes laughable. Please give us a practical list that says it like it is and is everything people would want to say to co-workers but are afraid to because of retaliation. I have seen everything on employees of all ages, and nobody here is brave enough to tell people the truth about how they look in the things they choose.

A: Everyone could use a stylist and image consultant, because seeing oneself realistically is difficult for most. So for everyone outside of Hollywood stars, this unadulterated list of truths is for those who need a wake-up mirror, and women most often are the guilty party.

Read all the style magazines you want, but understand there is a difference between going to work and going out to a club. It will also help to know that many fashions are designed with a model's figure in mind. If you are not built like a stop sign — big on top and a pole for a body — you are going to have to rely on common sense and honest friends for guidance. Buying what's "in" is not for everyone.

Bras are undergarments. You may equate them to bikini tops, which are worn at the beach, but they are not the same. Wearing a black bra under a white shirt may be OK for reality TV, but it is not appropriate for the office. You are there to work, not to cause a scene or to pick up men. Backless and strapless sundresses may be the rage, but they are on the no-no list for workplace wear. The same goes for fishnet and see-through materials. If you are not modest, at least pretend to be at the office. Miniskirts became popular in the late 1960s and have risen again among the young. But something happens to the legs and knees of women older than 50. Risking criticism about age discrimination, this must be said: You will not look 30 by dressing like a 20-year-old when you're older than 50.

Clothing stores are directed at different age groups — and for a good reason. Clothing is to cover one's body and to make a person look presentable and, at best, attractive, not to distract from one's purpose. If you are in an office, you are there to work. Stores such as Forever 21 were not intended for 40-plus women. No one likes aging, but when one's skin changes, assets can turn into liabilities or perhaps distractions; whether it be a plunging neckline or a too-short skirt, knowing when to cover those parts is helpful, unless you want co-workers talking behind your back.

For those who say that "aging is part of life, so get over it," here's something to consider. Studies consistently show that attractive people do better in the workplace. You are not expected to get plastic surgery, Botox and fillers, but staying clean, neatly groomed and well-dressed in age- and figure-appropriate garments will serve you well.

People are physical, intellectual and spiritual beings. Denying any one of those attributes will hold you back from experiencing all the advantages that being human has to offer. Many companies take pride in showing a willingness to make positive changes, such as becoming green. They vie for being rated among the "best places to work." For those who think that caring about physical appearance is superficial, do the research and check out the CEOs and executives who are successful. Work product is just a part of success. It's time to clean out your closets and plan accordingly.

Email your questions to workplace expert Lindsey Novak at [email protected] and follow her on Twitter @I_truly_care. To find out more about Lindsey Novak and to read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.