Dress to impress at work without losing your authentic sense of personal style.

How we dress can influence how others perceive us. Whether that be on a conscious or unconscious level, others will form options about who we are by the way we dress. In a work environment this can be particularly challenging. When you decide on that outfit in the morning, you are sending a message to the world…this is who I am today.

Now don’t be disheartened…This is a very powerful thing! You just need to know how to use the power of dressing to your advantage. I’m sure at some point you’ve been in a situation where someone has made a comment about your appearance “Did you have a rough night’s sleep, you look tired!” or “You’re looking very casual today, forget to do the washing?”. In the workplace, you want control the way people view you. For example, do you want to be viewed as powerful, intelligent, diligent, taller or simply good or your job? Whatever the case, a little bit of thought and planning into your outfit can make all the difference!

“Dress shabbily, they remember the dress; dress impeccably they remember the woman.”

- Coco Channel

But how do you dress to impress those around you, while not losing your authentic sense of style? You want to show up as your true self, but still be taken seriously and treated with respect. There is so much I could say on this topic and so many different versions depending on your job title, work environment and individual personal style. BUT… here are a few ideas to help you feel empowered to go beyond the white shirt and grey pencil skirt to your next day in the office.

1. Dress sharp and tailored; We all know that wearing a suit makes you feel powerful. A suit however is not the only weapon at your disposal. Choose wisely when shopping and putting together your outfit. Ill fitted clothing, that is not well tailored to your body shape, will not do you any favours. This means paying attention to how garments are cut, made and the material they are made from. Look for garments that are made from material that lasts more than one wash, is well stitched, and lined correctly, those plants that do not gape at the back or a blazer where the arm sleeves are the perfect length. When you are dressed in clothing that is well make, fits and flatters your figure, you will instantly look professional (for one), neat, tidy, and considered. Don’t pretend like this will not carry over to what people think of your work. HANDY TIP – find a tailor! Don’t wear that piece you love even if gapes a bit. Get it tailored… look better in it. A little bit of effort here will go a long way.

2. Make your outfit cohesive; One great way to look effortlessly stylish is carry your colour palette through your outfit. Wearing all one colour (although this is also a very stylist look when done well) can make you look unremarkable, and too many colours or prints can make you look disjointed and at times overwhelming. Think clean but interesting. Statement but unified. Interesting sets are a great example here. Let the viewer take your outfit in as a whole, from head to toe, consider you well dressed and then move on to more important things like who you are and what you’re doing.

3. Inject your personal signature the right amount; This is what makes you YOU. Sets you apart from everyone else and allows you to stand out from the crowd. Let your personal style give you a voice, just loud enough. If you’re a numbers gal, you could use the 80/20 rule (80% classic & clean and 20% your signature). For example, opt for one signature piece, build around the piece with colours that match or compliment and let the rest connect the outfit in a simple way. Are statement earrings your thing? Then choose your favourite pair and match your pants, bag or shoes with the colours in the earrings. Pair with a white shirt and coat that brings it all together.

4. Don’t forget the details; Do your hair, makeup and add your accessories. Even if that is keeping a slick hairstyle and you love a natural look. Take a few moments to add a watch, a chunky necklace or your favourite pair of hoop earrings (if that’s your signature thing). Complete the look and tie everything together. Sunglasses are my personal favourite; I feel bare without them when I leave the house. It could be as simple as adding a belt, a hat in the summer months or in the winter months it might be a scarf. It takes a little extra effort, but worth doing to complete your overall look. Trust me, you’ll get into a routine eventually and soon you won’t miss a step!

5. Own it and don’t hold back; confidence is key. I’ve given you some easy steps to help you work in those favourite wardrobe pieces that scream you, while still looking professional to get the respect at work you deserve. Wear your outfit with pride and conviction. Adopt a power pose, stand tall, give yourself a great big kiss, you got this, and you look Good!