“Dress for the job you want, not the one you have.” Maybe you’ve heard this one too: “Clothing makes first impressions that you might not ever be able to undo.” These statements make the point that how we dress communicates how seriously – or not – we want to be taken, or how serious we are about the job we are doing and the job we hope to achieve. Personal style coaching is available in Idaho via stores and boutiques, style and closet-remaking coaches, make-up artists, and volunteer-run entities.
One of the Treasure Valley’s greatest volunteer-operated clothing resources for women seeking jobs, re-entering the workforce, or in need of support preparing for a new job, is the Boise Valley Dress for Success® program. Located in Meridian, off of E. Fairview Ave. and Hickory, suiting and job retention are the two parts of their work. Suiting is about clothing – which they provide free of charge to qualified participants. Retention is about gaining skills for keeping a job.
While Dress for Success® is about providing clothing for interviews and work, it is also about helping individuals regain a sense of confidence on the journey to employment. Feeling good in what we wear makes a huge difference in how we present ourselves to others. The Dress for Success team at the shop makes everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. They are patient and passionate about helping women find the right outfits.
Donations are welcome. Gently worn or brand-new clothing, shoes, purses, and accessories are accepted. Monetary donations are also accepted and are used for operating expenses and for such things as purchases of new clothing as needed in the shop or for the program supporting women leaving jail and seeking employment. Saturday, September 13th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. is their annual Gala.
Volunteers are also invited to reach out to provide job-seeking coaching, to work in the shop, or to prepare items for the shop. Volunteers host annual fundraising events to support this work. For more information about donating, volunteering, or attending an event, contact Boise Valley Dress for Success at https://boisevalley.dressforsuccess.org