Regardless of talent, ability and experience, job seekers everywhere are scrutinized on the basis of how they look. It's not necessarily fair, but it's the way of the world.

"I think that about 75 to 80 per cent of the battle is looking the part," explains Karmen Masson, an Edmonton lawyer and community leader.

"Often the first impression made at the job interview level is really what's going to make or break the decision of an employer.

"A candidate who doesn't look pulled together will be automatically stereotyped as a weak candidate because their presentation isn't appropriate for a work environment."

Since 2002, Masson has been helping women look the part. After ending a bad relationship, she founded Suit Yourself to boost the self-esteem of struggling women.

The organization provides work wear, accessories, shoes and makeup -- a service that includes assistance from volunteer style coaches who comb the racks for the most flattering, business-appropriate outfits for clients.

Glory Kopinsky, a longtime executive assistant and Suit Yourself vice-president, is often on hand to help women find what they need to make a fresh start.

"What a great volunteer job. You get to play with clothing and makeup and shoes."

Volunteers work with clients to find versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create many different looks, Kopinsky says.

"If you start with at least a few basic parts of a suit, you can work with the pants and skirt (on their own) to have a more relaxed look as well as a professional look," she says.

"As long as we start with basic pieces, there's always room to grow."

Kopinsky notes the importance of a professional appearance varies among industries, and there's greater tolerance for casual wear than when she began her career.

However, wearing flattering clothes that match the corporate environment puts women at a much greater advantage.

"I think there's a lot to be said for first impressions before you've even had a chance to open your mouth. And also I think the self-confidence factor is huge."

About 150 women come to the charity each year, including many who are struggling to emerge from poverty and abuse. Masson says that many clients are initially uncomfortable with the transition from casual wear, like jeans or sweatpants, to structured clothing, often because of low self-esteem.

"Their self image is so weak that they can't picture themselves in a suit," she says.

But after an hour with a volunteer like Kopinsky, and five to seven new outfits, that image makes a 180-degree turn.

"That's very rewarding to see the transformation, not just in terms of their appearance, but their self-confidence as well," Kopinsky says.

After leaving a bad relationship, Laurie Kasperski has struggled to get back on her feet. She was thrilled to win a spot in the charity's Road to Success Makeover Event, which includes a new work wardrobe, a haircut and style, makeup application and professional style coaching.

"It's an amazing experience. It's changed my life," Kasperski says.

After being hired as manager of a Tim Hortons, she combed the racks at a discount department store, with limited success. But with a little help from Suit Yourself, she now has what she needs to start with confidence.

"I'm excited about the future. Suit Yourself was a really great experience."

For more information, visit www.suityourselfclothes.org