My corporate schedule has become so hectic that I will not be able to continue writing Style for Success each week, although I hope to return in the future. So for this column, I am responding to many of your recent e-mail messages and I hope my insights on style and fashion will assist you.

Always remember, we must possess both good taste and good judgment to achieve style for success.

Whether your workplace is an office, store, mailroom, bank, or restaurant, you can still impress your managers by staying fresh, attentive, and respectful as you climb your career ladder to the top – regardless of your budget.

Let’s get right to this week’s letters.

Dear Jen:

I run my business out of my very large home and employ three people. They feel since it is a home office and away from clients there is no need to “dress up” for each other. I disagree. If I am paying them “corporate salaries” then I feel they should come to work dressed like corporate executives. We are the same age, so it isn’t a generational issue. Any thoughts?

– Lydia, Winchester, Conn.

Dear Lydia:

Communicate your expectations. Make it clear that appearance and performance go hand in hand and that your experience has taught you when staff dress professionally they are more productive. Your home is the location but they are still reporting each day to an office and make the rules as formal as the dress – hopefully this will make a difference.

Dear Jen:

What is the general rule on suit vs. sport jacket and tie? I come to a meeting wearing one style and everyone is in the other.

– Richie, Newark, N.J.

Dear Richie:

In this instance, the key is your confidence more than your apparel. If you carry yourself confidently wearing a jacket and tie then it shouldn’t matter if it is a suit or sport jacket. Most likely the only one noticing is you because they are both appropriate in an office setting.

Dear Jen:

I am wondering whether white patent leather boots are still in style? Also, can you tell me if the sailor look is still a viable option for the office?

– Meg, New York City

Dear Meg:

White patent-leather boots are still in style when the toe and the heel of the boot match the current trends. As far as the sailor look, you can still pull it off, but I suggest trying to mix and match a sailor-inspired piece with a classic garment to achieve a nice stylistic balance.

Dear Jen:

My boss is a slob in both dress and attitude. It does no use to “style for success” when it goes completely unnoticed. I feel like I’m missing something after reading all of your columns and e-mail from other readers. Do I have it easy?

– Lynn, Newark, N.J.

Dear Lynn:

You don’t have the pressure to impress your boss, but you should still go for it. We style for success because of how it makes us feel and perform in the workplace. Dressing professionally will give us the edge when being introduced to a work associate or a client because the first contact is elevated. Attention to detail in our appearance will motivate us along with the people around us. Don’t lower your standards because your boss doesn’t get it. Instead, meet your own high standards to look your best while doing your best at work.

Ms. Silano Foy is president of eFashion Solutions, LLC, and has been a consultant in the fashion industry for more than 10 years. Readers are invited to send corporate fashion and workplace questions to styleforsuccess@aol.com.