There is no doubt about it; wearing the right clothes can make you feel on top of the world, but are you the only one who notices the difference? Can the clothes you are wearing really have an impact on your chances of success?
The late 70s and early 80s brought us 'power dressing'; the Dallas and Dynasty-inspired trend of overpriced suits and back-combed hair. Men and women alike were taking pride in the successes they were accomplishing in their careers and conveyed it to the world in their outward appearances. Now, though, priorities and roles have changed. Success is no longer partly judged on who designed your suit, but on how happy you look when you are wearing it.
In the age of equality, 'power dressing' is about being proud of who you are; love your career if you have one, love your family if you have one and dress to accommodate both in a way that makes you feel comfortable. Instead of buying blazers, people are erring on the side of current fashion and buying women’s Barbour jackets and men’s Barbour jackets. They are just as successful as they would have been in an expensive suit; they are showing the world their success in a completely new way. 'Power dressing' is about being smart, not flashy, and about wearing the clothes that fit you properly and which suit you.
As many people are working towards getting back into the world of employment or are seeking promotion within their existing company, the common advice for jobseekers is to 'dress for the job that you want' in your day to day life. Dressing for the job you desire can not only improve your confidence in your social circle as well as your professional life; it can completely change your mindset and make you feel like you have already achieved the success you desire. However, over dressing can have an entirely detrimental effect; you want to stand out and have an edge on others who are competing for the same position, but you don’t want to make your potential employer feel under dressed and uncomfortable. When choosing a suit, the money you spend or the designer on the label is no longer an important issue as it used to be; good tailoring and lightweight fabrics are the key to remaining smart, comfortable, and like you are ready for success.
In social situations like family gatherings or dress down days in your place of work, a smart but casual outfit is the ideal choice. A pair of Hugo Boss jeans and a fresh shirt without a tie or a blouse with some jewellery is the perfect way to take pride in your appearance without looking like you are trying too hard. In an interview scenario, a fitted suit is perfect; something tailored specifically to you and which you feel completely comfortable in. Showing that you can adapt yourself to any situation while still taking pride in your appearance shows that you are ready for success and, more importantly, that you know you are deserving of it.
Of course, being successful doesn’t hinge entirely on the clothes you are wearing; success is in your mind, your confidence, your determination and your attitude to your life and to your work. By taking a little bit of time to follow the latest trends and think about which outfits would complement your image, you may find that your confidence can soar; and with confidence comes power and above everything else, success.