FORT WORTH (CBSDFW.COM) – Working women across America have had a major makeover in the last few years.

They’ve traded in their jackets and pants for dresses and sweaters. It’s a trend you can see on television news anchors as well.

CBS 11 news anchor Tracy Kornet took a look at whether women in this new corporate uniform can still be taken seriously.

A recent article in “The Washington Post” confirms what you may have noticed — working women don’t really wear the dark, power suit anymore.

The old edict, “No bare legs, no long hair, and no feminine distractions,” no longer applies to TV news anchors or most women in corporate America.

Yes, serious women in serious jobs are showing more skin — and still being taken seriously.

“You don’t have to cover up your femininity anymore to be one of the boys to be accepted as a powerful figure in professional America,” says fashion expert Holly Quartaro.

Form-fitting dresses and skirts, feminine colors, even sleeveless dresses are now accepted uniforms for the workplace, according to Quartaro.

“I think some of that had to do with the First Lady Michelle Obama saying it’s ok to show your arms off and not to wear a jacket all of the time…and this is a great example of that.”

CBS 11/KTXA 21 sports anchor Gina Miller says it’s about time women on TV loosen up.

“I fully embrace sleeveless-cause that’s what people wear all the time,” she says.

“I think women are definitely in a place where women can dress more fashion forward and show personality in what they’re wearing –whether on air or at the office.”

CBS 11 news anchor Karen Borta says the transition to a more feminine, colorful wardrobe has been challenging.

“Years ago it was easy to go and find a bright pink suit, yellow suit, the colors just aren’t there.”

Which is why dresses, cardigans, and separates have become popular additions to many a professional woman’s wardrobe.

“This is the complete opposite of the pantsuit you saw earlier. You’ve got bare legs, separates, colorful blouse, and feminine skirt,” says Quartaro.

CBS 11 morning anchor Adrienne Bankert says she feels comfortable and “put together” in a button up jacket. She will pair it with a colorful top, even skinny jeans, to make it feel more modern.

“I don’t care what people say. People will judge by looks — whatever they see first, they’re going to make some type of assumption about you. So you might as well look attractive but not try to distract.”

The bottom line, ladies: the rules are now your own. Dress the way that feels right for you, flatters your shape, and gives you the confidence to perform at your peak.

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