wow... i really cannot take all of this information in... i'm trying. believe me i am. but i just can't seem to "see" myself like this, kwim? i seriously need someone to go out shopping with me or go through my closet with me and help me out. too bad the one person i knew irl just royally screwed me over and permanently moved back to new mexico...

Well, at the moment I am in Texas, so I am not much help.  However, professional wardrobe building is a skill that professional women develop over the years.  You can buy all kinds of books, but it you are strapped for cash at the moment, you don't need to spend your money that way.   You can go online and look for things like basic wardrobe planning, professional wardrobes, etc.  I will see if I can find some sites for you later tonight.  Right now, I am having some other things that I have to get done.  I will get back to you. 

okay, thank you! i really appreciate any and all help that anyone is able to give me. like i've said before, i *know* most of these things "in theory" but putting it in practice is a whole other story.

You might want to try http://www.dressforsuccess.org.

Amanda..
I love the gray sweater. Pair it with black slacks or a longer black skirt. You have gotten good advice..since I am in a very public industry I have certain things I have to wear to work. That means outside of work I tend to do a little more flashy too.
Thrift stores really are your best bet..my son just bought a brand new pair of Doc Martens..cost? 3.00. I am pretty small too but not at a 2 or 0.
I will be in Florence on the 25th of October..maybe we can meet up? I plan on going to the Renn Faire, then Graystone Manor haunted house. I will pm you my number if you like.
Oh, and what size shoe do you wear? I have some black dress shoes that I have worn one time. I think they are a size 7.