Power dressing is all about dressing smartly and well, mostly that. Entering the office can be intimidating. You want to do well, make a good impression and be taken seriously. There are unspoken rules for what to wear and what not wear for work, because let’s face it- appearances do matter and dressing better can get you ahead of work while also contributing a lot on how others perceive you for your trustworthiness, intelligence, success, and even your suitability for a promotion. A study shows that dressing up in clothing that makes you feel powerful affects the performance, thus leading to more success and ultimately becoming your confidence booster.
By now we have understood that the first thing by default that a person notices is your attire, especially at the workplace. The idea of power dressing was always there for men but for women, it was something that emerged in the 70’s as a measure to increase their visibility in the workplace and show some sort of authority as compared to men. Years later, the concept still remains the same only the style has changed. To simply put it across power dressing can be understood as armour for yourself (applicable both to men and women).
What is so liberating about power dressing is that it doesn’t have to look a certain way because it comes down to confidence. But there are certain rules to remember if you want to stay up front in the game, while you make a go at your favourite and sanguine wear for your workplace.
1. Always be well groomed
You shouldn’t pour oil in your hair and walk down the aisle (at least not the sticky and fragrant ones). Your nails must always be clean, trimmed or shaped properly, oh yes they are noticed. And your skin must be properly moisturised because the snake-skin dry-scales on your skin is definitely not a pretty sight.
2. Ill fittings are a no-no
Ill-fitted clothing is the king of disappointments, and probably no one will take you seriously as you will appear lanky and loose just like your clothes. Always know your fit or much better get your suit tailored according to your fit. Get your clothes personalized from the stores and always keep a tailor on speed dial for rescue.
3. Be consistent with your style
Know your style and stick to it. How? Experiment with different styles and come to a conclusion and decide what makes you feel comfortable yet confident, Viola that is your style. Do not ever try to copy others, avoid cloning. Also, too many loud prints or designs or logos make you appear flashy.
4. Quality over quantity
We understand how tempting it is when you see 80%-90% off on clothes or clothes in dirt-cheap rates because cheap clothes definitely mean cheap quality. Instead, buy few but buy for its quality and outshine yourself. As Coco Chanel would put it, ‘Dress shabbily, people remember the clothes. Dress impeccably and people remember the woman.’
It is great to be ambitious and even greater to be able to walk that path that leads to your dream, so why not let your clothes contribute to your confidence and success. One must keep in mind that a great ensemble becomes significant when it commands a career-defining moment or showcases authority. Play it smart and safe; embrace what makes you unique, after all a few great looks are better than a bunch of mediocre looks.
