THE FIVE RULES OF POWER DRESSING & WHY IT’S THE SECRET TO A SUCCESSFUL DAY

THE ART OF POWER DRESSING

If there’s one styling trick i’ve learnt and mastered over the years, it’s the art of dressing for self confidence. The power of an outfit to transform the way you feel, come across and the confidence it can give you is undeniable. Just like the way adding colour to your look can transform your mood, the garments, tailoring, materials and even brands you wear can do the same.

And there’s one thing for sure, at times in your career, a power outfit is exactly what is required to give you that extra confidence boost and to spark your inner girl boss.

In terms of what that look is, that comes down to personal taste and style, but there are a few things that any power outfit should deliver on that I wanted to share with you today. These pointers are fail safe, work regardless of season, work situation or occasion, but if you’re able to tick them all off, you’re guaranteed to be wearing an outfit that’ll leave you feeling invincible.

HOW TO POWER DRESS

The Rules Of Power Dressing Are Simple, Yet Effective

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COMFORT & QUALITY

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First things first, the key to power dressing is feeling comfortable. No one ever looks confident and ready to take on the world in an ill-fitting, uncomfortable outfit. When it comes to power dressing the first rule of looking and feeling your best, is to opt for clothes, tailoring and looks that make you feel good. For me this means nothing too tight fitting, something that hangs nicely, and usually something quality so the material looks and feels good on me. The tailoring and styles are and should be unique to each and every one of us, no one size fits all, not least when it comes to feeling confident.

Start by thinking about the outfits you feel your best in, and pick apart what it is that makes you feel so confident in it? These things should become the basis for your power look.

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MODESTY & TAILORING

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A power outfit not only makes you feel good, but other people respond well to it too, it’s professional, chic and effortless on you. For me modesty and tailoring are key components to this. I’ve never attended a meeting or event where a short skirt has felt appropriate or looked appropriate on someone, nor a bandeau top or a mid rift on show. Professional styling is part and parcel with the power look, think modest lengths, flattering tailoring & layering to add to the overall silhouette.

As a general rule of thumb, nothing too high on the thigh, nothing too low on the breast and bear arms are a summer thing only! Blazers are a really easy way of adding some chic tailoring & modesty to an otherwise slightly risque dress or blouse. 

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STATEMENT TOUCHES

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I always feel my best when I have a little something statement included in my look, for me personally this is always my shoe and my bag. No matter what the look, a luxe or statement accessory will immediately elevate your look. You don’t have to spend a fortune for accessories to make an impact, for example a simple neckerchief can transform a look (and add a little more modesty to an open blouse) and cost as little as £10.

Invest in statement, quality and versatile pieces that can immediately upgrade and elevate your day to day looks. Most importantly … make sure you’re comfortable in them.

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PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT

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Part of feeling and looking professional is preparation. Turning up to a meeting without a notebook or your laptop will not only leave you feeling panicked and unprepared, but chances are it’ll make you look it too. Once again, it doesn’t have to be a huge investment, but ensuring you have professional equipment will only add impact to the power look – think a classic note pad, a simple pen and even a smart briefcase or laptop case should you need to carry that around too.

Whilst most the time I chuck my work tools into a big canvas bag and leave my handbag to do the talking, for important meetings I always upgrade to a bigger, luxe & quality bag to carry my things. It just looks more professional.

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WELL TURNED OUT

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One thing i’ve learnt in my career is that your look is more than just what you’re wearing, everything from fresh hair to manicured nails not only affects the way you look, but also the way you feel in yourself. Feeling well turned out will make you feel more confident and in truth, make you look more professional.

Chipped nails are an absolute no go, so book yourself a regular manicure, and leave yourself time to truly prepare your hair, makeup and overall beauty regime in the morning. And don’t over do it, simple and natural makeup with a pop of colour on your lips is plenty.

Ultimately the impact of the power look is that you’re left feeling confidence, and if you’re looking to have a successful day, then feeling confident, ready and prepared is essential. Most often the most successful days come about when you’re looking and feeling your best. And whilst confidence most certainly comes from within, a simple place to start if you’re looking for a little extra confidence boost, is of course with what you’re wearing and how you’re looking, and on top of that, allowing your self time to prepare! As they say preparation is the key to success.

What’s your go to power outfit & styling rules?