I first connected with Deb Sutton through my involvement in the local careers and employment community in Dunedin, and her passion for supporting job seekers stood out immediately. She recognised a practical yet often overlooked barrier in the job search process: the role of professional clothing in building confidence.
That understanding led to Success Suits You, an initiative that helps job seekers feel prepared by providing appropriate workwear. Deb saw the gap and took action, creating a service that removes one more obstacle from the job search journey. Her dedication to making a tangible difference is what sets her apart.
A professional outfit that fits well. A clean, polished look. Thoughtfully chosen accessories. These might seem like small details, but for someone preparing for a job interview, they can make all the difference. Confidence often starts with how we present ourselves, and for many job seekers, especially those facing financial hardship, access to professional clothing isn’t a given. That’s where Success Suits You steps in.
Deb Sutton never set out to create an organisation. She simply saw a gap and felt compelled to fill it. Before founding Success Suits You, Deb had built a career in training and human resources, spending over 30 years helping others develop their skills and find work. She had a natural passion for empowering people to be the best they could be, and alongside that, a love for clothes and how they can influence self-perception. "I had guidance when I entered the workforce, and great mentors along the way, but not everyone has that," she says.
The idea for Success Suits You started in a small but meaningful way. In her role at the Ministry of Social Development, Deb developed a course to help sole parents return to the workforce. It focused on recognising transferable skills and rebuilding confidence, but as she worked with participants, she noticed another barrier: many simply didn’t have the right clothing for interviews or new jobs. So, she put a call out to her colleagues, asking for work-appropriate clothing donations. The response was overwhelming, and soon, she had more than she knew what to do with.
Then COVID-19 hit, and the course had to move online. The clothes remained—unused but still needed. It was at this moment that Deb saw the potential for something bigger. She raised the idea of a ‘Dress for Success’ style service in Dunedin with the ‘Employment & Careers South’ committee, and their enthusiasm confirmed what she already felt: this was something worth pursuing.
Getting Success Suits You off the ground wasn’t easy. The biggest challenge was securing funding and finding a dedicated space to operate from. While there was plenty of enthusiasm from the community, turning that into practical support took time. "We had no shortage of people willing to help, but we needed a home for the service," Deb recalls.
Another hurdle was getting the word out. In the early days, many people didn’t know Success Suits You existed. Referrals were slow, and it took persistence, networking, and the trust of local agencies to build momentum. But with each person who walked through the doors and left feeling confident and ready for the workforce, the word spread.
For Deb, professional presentation has never been just about clothes. "A former boss once told me, 'Dress for the job above the one you’re going for and project confidence from the moment you enter the building.' That advice has stuck with me my whole career." She believes first impressions can make a lasting impact and that feeling good in what you wear can give job seekers a much-needed confidence boost. But she also understands that the barriers to employment go far beyond wardrobe limitations. High unemployment, a competitive job market, and the mental toll of job searching can make the process daunting—especially for those returning to the workforce after a break.
The impact of Success Suits You has been clear from the beginning. One particular moment that stands out to Deb is when a young man preparing for the ‘Limited Services Volunteer (LSV) programme’ in Burnham walked through their doors. When he arrived at the boutique, he was wearing baggy track pants and a hoodie, his hood up, avoiding eye contact. His body language spoke of uncertainty. But after being fitted with a sharp suit, shirt, and shoes, something changed. His shoulders went back, and a grin spread across his face as he admired himself in the mirror. A few weeks later, a volunteer bumped into him at the MSD office—this time, he was still in the suit, standing tall, brimming with confidence, and excitedly sharing that he had secured a job. Moments like these remind Deb why Success Suits You matters.
Since officially opening in April 2023, Success Suits You has helped over 100 people and continues to grow. The boutique has become more organised, with dedicated volunteers sorting clothing donations and ensuring stock rotates seasonally. A volunteer coordinator now helps manage consultations, ensuring clients get the attention and support they need. Social media has played a big role in spreading awareness, and events hosted by local businesses have opened doors for potential sponsorship opportunities.
The role of the community has been vital to Success Suits You's success. "Dunedin is such a great community—sometimes it feels like two degrees of separation rather than six," Deb laughs. The generosity of individuals donating clothing, the businesses that have stepped up to help with funding, and the volunteers who dedicate their time all make this work possible. Word-of-mouth has played a huge part in raising awareness, and Deb hopes that as more people learn about the initiative, the support will continue to grow.
Looking to the future, Success Suits You is working toward securing long-term sustainability. One key goal is registering as an independent charity, rather than continuing to operate under 'Employment & Careers South'. This shift would allow the organisation to apply for funding more easily and expand its reach.
When asked what keeps her going despite the challenges, Deb’s answer is simple: "Knowing that our service makes a difference." She’s seen it firsthand, in the way a new outfit can transform someone’s posture, their self-belief, and their confidence as they step into the next chapter of their career.
Her advice to job seekers struggling with confidence? "Talk to someone who can help boost your confidence and give you practical advice—whether that’s Success Suits You, a career professional, or a trusted friend. Just ask.
Success Suits You isn’t just about providing clothing—it’s about restoring confidence, offering support, and showing people they’re not alone in their job search. Sometimes, a small moment of support—whether it’s the right outfit, a word of encouragement, or simply being seen and heard—can change the course of someone’s journey. That’s what Success Suits You is all about.
Learn more about the amazing work Deb and the team are doing and how you can support their mission by visiting Success Suits You.
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