We spend most of our lives at school, at work or studying to get that degree that is hopefully going to open us the doors to success. From a very young age we were taught rules, given limits and labeled in more than one way. How you look is how you are perceived by others and the way you dress has a massive influence on that. At a 9 to 5 office job you are expected to wear something casual and appropriate while sitting behind your desk working under a demanding boss who barely acknowledges your existence. But how is that possible, when you earned your degree, you have the experience and skill set to get a seat at the table and become a successful woman in business? Sometimes, it’s the way you present yourself physically and verbally standing in the way of it.
Confidence and self-love don’t come naturally to everyone, in fact: no one was born with it. In my opinion, it depends on who you surround yourself with and the journey it took to get to where you are today. You have to start seeing your worth, the value of your work and the right piece of fashion implements that. As important as not judging a book by its cover is, you are always being observed by people and – depending on what they see – it can either make you look powerful or less important. What’s beautiful is that you can choose the picture you want them to see by presenting yourself accordingly. Do you want to be taken seriously? Would you like to be recognized as powerful? Then it’s time to switch it up!
I asked a few of my fashionable friends, style icons – who make the streets their runway – and powerful women in business for an insight. What do they consider to be a key piece to update your look while still staying in the dress code lane? And the answers were pretty similar. According to one of my favorite girls in fashion, Caro Daur, everyone needs a boyfriend blazer! And I couldn’t agree more. They come in all colors and patterns and can be easily styled with a simple top and a pair of jeans or shorts. Not only is it a comfortable look for a day at the office, but it can be a statement when worn in a powerful color. Try to walk into the next meeting wearing that and maybe a nice pair of Moccasins or stylish sneakers to complete the look. You will feel the difference.
For those who are looking for something more elegant to go with a nice blazer or even heels, self-made entrepreneur Elena Ora recommends going with a simple black dress. Just like the casual look from earlier, you can style it with either a blazer or maybe go for a colorful statement bag, nice layered jewelry or cute hair accessories; depending on the direction you’re going in. If you aren’t a fan of dresses, try wearing a turtleneck under a neutral colored blazer with a pair of black jeans and plateau boots. As you can see, there are various options for every type of person and individual style. Go to a store, order some pieces online and try different options to find the right fit for you. There are plenty of affordable options, don’t look at the labels and wear whatever you are comfortable in. Once you’ve picked your choices, it is time to shine.
Dress up and once you arrive at your office space, walk the halls as if you are running the place. Feel good about yourself, remember your worth and the value of your hard work and dedication. You deserve to be seen, appreciated and rewarded and it is time you not only demand that, but leave a lasting impression that will hopefully lead to the success story you have earned. Updating your closet and style is not a choice you should make purely to impress others. And it’s not the solution to all your problems. Make the decision because it will make YOU feel better and give you that confidence boost that’s needed, helping you walk into the direction of your powerful future in charge.
ROARA Magazine 