WELL SUITED FOR WORK

When applying for a first job, it is important to make a good first impression. That means, for one thing, dressing appropriately. If a Maine woman can’t afford a new outfit, fortunately she has a place to go for help: Well Suited – “Clothing That Works” – has been written about before, but is worth mentioning again. It is, among other things, believed to be the only such agency in the country.

Well Suited has equipped 403 Maine women in its three years of operation. The first step is an initial visit to the second-floor headquarters in downtown Portland. A woman is fitted for a proper outfit for her first job interview. What is “proper”? Job-training instructors say to dress two or three levels higher for that first interview. That means a business-like dress or suit. Pants will do if they look professional and not like a day at the beach, and if they can be paired with a jacket or blazer. If she gets the job, she can go back for her first real working outfit. She can return again after six months and after a year for additional fresh outfits.

All this at no charge. The clothes are donated by women throughout the state and from as far away as New York City and Wyoming, often by women who are retiring and have no further need for a closet full of professional-style designer suits and dresses. The annual budget is $65,000. Financial support comes from individuals, businesses and foundation grants.

Well Suited has one paid staffer, program director Michele Lawless, a 20-year Portland resident. Sorting the clothing and fitting the customers is handled by some 40 volunteers, many of them taking time off from paid jobs for which Well Suited outfitted them. The shop, at 565 Congress St. in Portland, accepts donations weekdays from 9 to 5. Customers may make appointments for Monday and Wednesday, 10 to 4. The phone number is 780-1686.

You can help keep this fine operation going by contributing used clothing that you no longer need. But keep in mind that Well Suited doesn’t accept everything offered. Clothing must be clean, in good repair, neither too sporty nor too fancy, and currently in fashion. Donations also should be in season, since the shop is short on storage space.