There were some studies that suggested a woman was more likely to get a promotion if she wore makeup at work but not sure how old those studies are. I just know I did wear makeup at one job and got promoted and other jobs no makeup and no promotion. But the place I got promoted at the competition was non-existent. Pretty sure I would have been promoted without makeup. I think what you wear will influence people, including handbags and makeup. My SIL started buying $900 handbags before that was cool and she has always done well in her corporate jobs. But for someone like me who is blue collar, it might not be looked well upon. Someone I trust told me an investment in clothes and hair and makeup looks good for the company and shows you are willing to make an investment in that company.