Bank of England Lipstick 'n Heel Blip

I've been pondering the idea of make-up at work - and how far it influences a woman's chance of success for a while, now. So I read with interest (and amusement) today's story about the Bank of England's Dress for Success furore. For the record, and at the risk of irritating a large number of women further, there's an argument and some evidence to suggest that it does. That aside, in as much as it is about looking neat and tidy (and I'm talking for the corporate and public world, here), the idea makes sense. Though to be lectured on it at work - I think I'd find it rather irritating.

I've written and advised on how to look good, for a long time now (13 years and counting). So it would be disingenuous of me to join the ranks of today's irked - Katherine Rake of the women's group, The Fawcett Society, the economist, Ruth Lea, Patricia Hewitt and Baroness Morris. So what do I think?

1. The B of E's lipstick-'n-heel blip was particularly poor timing. It happened the same week we Brits were told we've got Recession worst; strikes hit; global recession summit happened. They're probably kicking themselves, if briefly, they've got a lot on.
2. The memo that advised against wearing white stilettos, ankle chains, double-pierced ears - who leaked it? And more to the point, who wrote it? It's rather funny. Who wears white stilettos these days, unless they're being ironic, anyway?
3. The right make-up makes women look better. So in the work place, if it can help you look groomed, healthy and your best, it makes sense.
4. A large number of women don't know what to do with make-up and would like to know - especially for work. They know it can make them look better because they have a couple of friends who are a dab hand with the make-up brush, and always look fabulous.
5. Today's make-up is better, easier to apply and more wearable than ever.
6. Lipstick is a good idea. For work, the best colour is a natural looking rose, beige or brownish pink - a little darker than your natural lip colour. The texture should be creamy or sheer, not matte and not too shimmery. Can you wear red for work? Yes. Just make sure it's a soft, muted red - think brick, not pillar box. Still wary? Mix with lip balm to dilute.