Blazing a path for sanity's sake

If you've ever been lucky enough to befriend a shrink, it'll come as no surprise to you that a majority of them are at least as crazy as the rest of us. The old chestnut "Do as I say, not as I do" seems to apply on a consistent basis. But for Dr. Ann Bellowes of Lifetime's "State of Mind," airing Sundays, dressing as she does seems to make a lot of sense.

The professionalism that comes from wearing a conservative - though well-fitting - blazer can't be overstated. And when Dr. Bellowes walks into a therapy session, she is letting the patient know she is qualified to analyze, interpret and listen. Just imagine if your therapist wore cargo pants and a tube top. The phrase "And how did that make you feel?" would seem utterly farcical. By the way, we're assuming your therapist is a woman in this scenario, otherwise you should definitely ask for your money back.

While Dr. Bellowes tends to keep things dark and conservative, that doesn't mean she doesn't use the look to its best effects. A BCBG Max Azria Martine blazer in mahogany with subtle blue pinstripes features a wide, peaked lapel and flap pockets. It provides a beautiful slimming effect and can be paired with a simple tank or camisole underneath, a dress shirt or, as Ann tends to do, a frilly blouse. For example, a Tarina blouse from Elie Tahari, beautifully embroidered in crinkled silk chiffon. The blouse features a narrow banded collar, elbow-length sleeves and a wide grosgrain ribbon belt. Another great blouse that works for the good doctor is a smocked V-neckline silk charmeuse top from BCBG Max Azria with an empire waist shape.

A perfect blazer to complement a flashier underneath garment is the Juicy 4 stretch jacket from Hugo Boss. It's the very definition of staid. Anyone who wears this blazer has certainly got nothing better to do than listen to your problems.

Moving away from the traditionally cut blazer, A one-button pinstripe jacket from Nanette Lepore features a tailored silhouette. The back is highlighted by a half-belt with a feminine bow tie while the cuffs feature three exaggerated buttons, adding flair. It's conservative and stylish all at the same time.

If you are looking to make more of a statement at the office, cropped jackets continue to be a trendy alternative. Gerda-Albers' Theory double-breasted cropped jacket with a wide notched collar and three-quarter length sleeves also has oversized buttons and slit pockets. Though not as professional as the aforementioned blazers, it shows you've picked up a fashion magazine at least once in your life - which should come as quite a shock to everyone stuck in the waiting room reading a 9-month-old U.S. News & World Report.