Dressing for Success: How To Always Look The Part | CBCC News
You’ve heard it before: You never get a second chance to make a first impression (Will Rogers).
And if you’ve only got one chance to make your first impression great, then knowing the concept of ‘dressing for success’ becomes a top priority.
Many people think of dressing for success as just knowing how to wear the right clothes. But it actually goes beyond that: it is about knowing how to present yourself in a way that reflects confidence, competence, and readiness to take on new challenges, starting with the right outfit.
For people looking to re-enter the workforce or navigate new professional landscapes, dressing for success can be a powerful step in empowering them on their journey. How can you do so? The CBCC delves into how creating the right appearance will help you make your mark in your professional journey.
Dressing For Success: What does it actually mean?
Dressing for success suggests that your outfit can significantly impact your performance and perception in professional environments. First coined by John T. Malloy in 1975 in his book, Dress for Success, and in his follow-up book The Women’s Dress for Success Book in 1977, these books revealed the impact on clothing on a person’s success in business and personal life, and popularised the concept of power dressing.
The concepts Malloy introduced are still relevant today: the appropriate clothing can boost self-confidence, enhance credibility, and influence how others perceive and interact with you.
For women entering new spaces, this concept is particularly relevant. Whether you are going to a job interview, a networking event, or a business meeting, the right outfit can feel like armour, giving you a sense of preparedness and aligning your outward appearance with your inner capabilities and aspirations.
How Can We Start Dressing For Success?
It’s good to know why it’s important to be dressing for success, but being able to do so is another thing entirely.
What are some ways you can begin dressing for success?
The first step, and the most important step, is to Understand the Dress Code. Every industry and organisation has its own dress code, ranging from formal, to business casual, to creative. Before attending an event, preparing for an interview, or starting a new job, take the time to research and understand what they expect of you and your outfits. This knowledge will help you blend in while still allowing room for personal expression.
Pro tip: If in doubt, lean towards a more formal approach. You can always adjust as you become more familiar with the environment, but being overdressed will always give you more confidence than being underdressed.
The second step is to build a wardrobe filled with versatile staples, such as a well-fitted blazer, a classic white shirt, tailored trousers, and a modest skirt or dress, that can be mixed and matched for different looks. With quality basics, you will always have something to wear, regardless of your situation. Often, you will already have some key items in your wardrobe! Be sure to examine your current wardrobe before you start hitting the shops.
As you’re building your wardrobe, it is important to always prioritise comfort and fit. Comfort should never be sacrificed for style. An outfit that looks great but feels uncomfortable can distract you and undermine your confidence. Focus on finding clothes that fit well and allow you to move comfortably.
Feeling a bit plain in your new business attire? Embrace your unique style with thoughtful accessories and little touches that show your personality off. Personal touches, such as a pop of your favourite colour, your favourite earrings, or your favourite bag, will set you apart, make you feel more comfortable and ‘yourself’, and give you more confidence.
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