Dress for Success Suit Drive at Mitchell John Salon

By: Anne Vickman

Next week, between March 7 and 12, Mitchell John Salon is hosting a suit donation drive to support Dress For Success. The NYC-based nonprofit helps disadvantaged women return to the working world, and its beneficiaries come from all walks of life, including domestic abuse situations, homeless shelters, educational institutions, and immigration agencies. Many of these women experience a Catch-22 when trying to find a job, as summarized on DFS’s website: “Without a job, how can you afford a suit? But without a suit, how can you get a job?”

The program uses a referral-only system for serving clients, and all women go through an interview process before receiving clothing. After getting some whip-smart duds and scoring a job, gals can return for more clothing to stock their wardrobe with professional basics, and get guidance to help them develop their career and, ultimately, their ability to be self-sufficient. Last year the Boston chapter of DFS raised $400,000 and dressed 963 women.

Mitchell John Salon, located in the Financial District, will give a 5 percent discount per item donated with a maximum of 20 percent off services. Acceptable items include suits, business attire, jewelry, shoes, and unopened cosmetics and pantyhose; clothing should be dry-cleaned and on hangers. Hit up your closets, Bostonistas, and tell us what you plan on donating.

Mitchell John Salon, 67 Broad St., Boston, 617-951-0122, mjsalon.com.
Dress for Success, 989 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-779-2177, dressforsuccess.org.