Toxicity can show up in a lot of different ways. You may have a toxic friend and not even realize it. Here are several ways that toxic behavior can manifest:  They create and are surrounded by interpersonal issues. They try to manipulate and control you. They are needy and make strong demands on your attention. They are extremely critical of themselves and other people. They are unwilling to seek help or try to change. They are extremely disrespectful and always seem to get their way. A strong form of toxicity is constant anger. These people are irritable and will get upset at you for the smallest slight. You may feel like you are having to watch your back constantly in order to keep them from jumping on you. Recognize the traits of an angry person so you can learn to respond appropriately. Here are a few signs of an angry person:  Shouting at people. Threatening people. Interrogating people with hostile questioning. Regularly using strong, intense language. Another form of toxicity that shows up is the cynical person. Cynical people have a negative view of the world. This view infects everything in their life and they have a difficult time being positive. They are hard to be around because of the unending dark cloud overhead. Cynical people may:  Complain endlessly about their lives. Never be satisfied with how you act toward them. Fail to contribute anything positive to the relationship. Feel distrust and unnecessary negativity towards others. One useful way to determine if people are toxic is to pay attention to how you feel around them. You can "check in" at certain points while you are around people. Ask yourself the following questions:  Am I feeling drained right now? Does it seem like the person is draining my emotions? Am I walking on eggshells? Am I afraid to say the wrong thing because they might react negatively? Am I ignoring my own voice? Is the person making it hard for me to listen to myself and follow my own values? Do I feel smaller and less important around this person? You may be too close to the toxic people to know if they are really toxic or not. They could just be going through a rough patch. Try asking a different friend or someone with good judgment if they think the person is toxic. This will help you zero in on the toxic people in your life. Your own judgment is a good source of information, but sometimes when we get too close to a situation it can be hard to have an unbiased opinion.

Summary: Look for basic signs of a toxic person. Watch for people who are constantly angry. Watch for cynics who get you down. Assess how you feel around people. Get a second opinion.


If you are going to wear a leather skirt to the office, make sure it is suitable for the workplace. Select a leather skirt with a long hemline, such as a knee or midi skirt. The skirt should be cut in a more conservative silhouette —avoid leather skirts that are too tight or have an inappropriately high slit. Choose a simple, elegant top that complements the luxuriousness of the leather skirt. For a timeless look, tuck a crisp white button-up into the waistband of your leather skirt. If you’re frequently cold, wear a cardigan, jumper, or fitted blazer over the blouse.  In the fall and winter, pair your leather skirt with a delicate cashmere sweater or a chunky, oversized knit. In the spring and summer, wear a lightweight blouse or high-neck tank. When you are at the office, keep your accessories simple and minimal. Slip on a pair of basic pumps, cute booties, or high boots. Wear a statement necklace or a few dainty pieces of jewelry. If you are planning to go out after work, put less conservative shoes and jewelry in your bag.
Summary: Choose an appropriate skirt. Pair it with a classic or conservative top. Accessorize simply.