Editor’s note: Most know that Vanessa Williams supports Botox, but what’s less known is her work with Allergan Inc., the makers of wrinkle erasers and Dress for Success, a nonprofit organization that empowers women by providing them free professional clothes and makeup, career advice and more. "Botox Cosmetic: Express Success" events are held across the country and include speakers from various disciplines, including the darling actress and singer, renowned dermatologists, beauty experts and inspirational life speakers. To attend the event, women are simply asked to donate a suit to Dress for Success. Visit expresssuccesscampaign.com for more information on upcoming local events.

wOw: Hi Vanessa. You’ve been a public advocate for Botox for quite a while. How long have you been using it?

VANESSA: I started when I was 40. I’m 46 now.

wOw: While you openly speak about your use of Botox, a lot of actresses are private about it.

VANESSA: Well, it’s a matter of the woman or the actresses. It’s up to them to talk about it. All women should have a plan with their own physician how much they’re going to use and how effective it can be with their acting. I want to maintain looking like myself. I don’t want to hinder my performance, and I’m very clear about that with my doctor. I don’t go overboard, and the old adage about freezing my face – I obviously can’t do that because I don’t want to. I want to look like myself and I want to have expression.

I’ve been nominated for three Emmys because I have expression and can act. I think it’s a slippery slope when you paint a broad picture that every actress that uses Botox will look a certain way. I think it’s all a matter of who you choose to administer it, and being very vocal and diligent about what you expect as to the effects of it.

wOw: I often say that Botox isn’t about anti-aging, it’s about aging gracefully.

VANESSA: For me, it’s just about maintaining and looking fresh – and not trying to look like anyone else. The effect that I go for is to maintain the way I look. We’re all going to age, obviously. Your skin’s eventually going to sag, unless there’s some magic potion that might come out in the next ten years. I would rather not have to go through any kind of cutting or a face lift, but I’m 46 years old. Who knows what I’ll say in another ten years?

wOw: I think you look absolutely fabulous, by the way.

VANESSA: Thank you.

wOw: In addition to Botox, what is your No. 1 beauty tip for every woman?

VANESSA: Attitude is 90 percent. Coming in looking like you are confident is leaps and bounds the best thing you can ever do for your appearance. And then asking questions – the biggest tip is to ask questions. If you find somebody whose hairstyle you like, ask them who did their hair; ask them what shampoo they use; ask them what color eye shadow they’ve got on. Don’t be afraid to ask because most people will share, and that’s what we need to do as women.

Vanessa Williams and Joi Gordon, CEO of Dress for Success Worldwide, pose in front of clothing donated by event attendees

wOw: Great advice. For the Dress for Success event, to be admitted to these events women are just asked to donate a suit. Do you have a "power outfit," or suit that looks so good on you it simply empowers you to take control?