Empowering Confidence: How Dress for Success Charleston Provides Resources to Transform Women’s Lives

By Mark A Leon

Dress for Success Charleston County is a transformative nonprofit dedicated to helping unemployed and underemployed women achieve economic independence. 

Founded in 2003 as the first affiliate of Dress for Success in South Carolina, the organization provides free professional attire, career development resources, and a robust network of support to help women thrive both in work and in life.

Mission and Programs

The core mission of Dress for Success Charleston is to empower women to reach self-sufficiency and success. This is accomplished through several key initiatives:

• Suiting Services: Women referred by partner agencies receive professional outfits tailored for job interviews and the early weeks of employment. The goal is not just to provide one suit, but a small wardrobe to help women feel confident as they transition into the workforce.

• Career Development: Beyond clothing, Dress for Success offers workshops, one-on-one coaching, mentoring, and networking events. These programs focus on building confidence, workplace skills, and financial literacy, ensuring women are prepared for long-term career growth.

• Ongoing Support: The organization fosters a supportive community where women can encourage each other, share experiences, and stay motivated during their job search and career advancement.

Community Impact

Since its inception, Dress for Success Charleston County has served over 5,000 women across Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties. The organization’s impact extends beyond individuals, benefiting families and the broader community by breaking cycles of poverty and promoting economic empowerment.

Events, Donations and Partnerships

Dress for Success Charleston hosts events like the annual “Little Black Dress and Tie” fundraiser, which brings together community members to celebrate women’s achievements and raise funds for ongoing programs

The organization relies heavily on donations of gently used professional clothing and financial contributions from local supporters and businesses.

Click HERE to learn about volunteer opportunities

Click HERE to learn about donating..

Looking Ahead

Founder Margaret Jefferson and her team continue to expand offerings, including new courses on self-care, career development, and financial literacy, ensuring that women in Charleston have the tools and confidence to pursue their dreams.

Short Bio: Margaret Jefferson

Margaret Jefferson is the founder and director of Dress for Success Charleston County, a role she has held since establishing the organization in 2003. A native Charlestonian, Jefferson attended Charleston County Public Schools before earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing from Winthrop University. She also holds a technical project management certification from The Citadel.

Jefferson’s career spans both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, where she has served in various leadership roles. Driven by a lifelong commitment to service, she created Dress for Success Charleston to empower women through professional development and support. Under her leadership, the organization has helped thousands of women gain confidence, secure employment, and achieve economic independence.

Jefferson is recognized for her dedication to uplifting others and her belief in the power of community collaboration to create lasting change in Charleston and beyond.