MARVELOUS, YES. MATRONLY, NEVER.

We all know women who dress to be noticed by men and women who dress to be envied by other women, but most of us after a few years on the planet start dressing for that woman in the mirror. Or that woman you suddenly come across reflected in a store window.

I have a friend who always wears red silk when she's anticipating a rough day, like going into the clinic for some scary, important exam or facing off with a difficult employee.

We all have our personal Wonder Woman apparel that we draw on for strength and security. Some women will not go anywhere, even into their own kitchen to make coffee, before they have their earrings attached. I personally believe there's nothing more all-powerful than a long, snug, butt-cupping pair of jeans.

Fashion is an art, a sport and sure, an indulgence, but it's also a way of celebrating yourself. When we get past caring how we look, it's a slippery slope to shapeless sweaters and serviceable shoes.

Brenda Kinsel and I talk about styling a Tomato in this week's Juicy Tomato radio piece at http://www.juicytomatoes.com. Brenda is an image consultant in the Bay Area and author. Her latest book is Brenda Kinsel's Fashion Makeover: 30 Days to Diva Style. Listen to her and you'll never wear that lumpy denim skirt again.