What is the Confident Language of Clothing?

My clients have heard me say that “clothing is a language.” A reasonable follow up question is “what does clothing say?” Let’s explore that question a bit….

Have you noticed that a confident woman is generally always put together? Rarely, do you see one looking disheveled and ungroomed. Think Marissa Mayer and Michelle Obama. While successful and powerful women are usually quaffed, they don’t let fashion or beauty rituals bog them down. Instead, they use them to their advantage.

Here are some tips from a recent article on dailyworth.com that will help you send a positive message about who you are and dictate how you want to be treated at the office. Believe it or not, sharp aesthetics command power and help win over your clients, coworkers and your boss.

1)   Impeccable Grooming

A recent study revealed that women spend one week a year on grooming and “getting ready.” Getting ready can seem like a chore, but prioritizing tasks and creating efficient habits (ex: wearing functional hairstyles and low maintenance nails) can actually cut your prep time and at the same time elevate your overall appearance.

Flawless grooming says, “I pay attention to details.”

2)   Distinctive Style

Creating a unique visual identity reinforces your position of power. Whatever your job or role, develop a look that helps you stand out – and for the right reasons. Maybe it’s a certain color or a particular silhouette.

A visual identity says, “I am consistent, reliable and aware.”

3)   Strategic Makeup

While a “natural” look is celebrated, we all know that it isn’t really natural – it requires some work and not all makeup sends the same message. Avoid the “Jersey Shore” look – orange instead of bronzed and keep a lipstick or gloss handy to apply mid day to help brighten your face with a hint of color.

A fresh and natural look says, “I am credible and healthy.”

4)   Body Awareness

For confident women, physical exercise is not about being super thin – it’s actually scientifically linked to intelligence and memory and a feeling of mental strength. Taking the appropriate amount of time for self-reflection (not self-obsession!) induces and enforces healthy habits. Regardless of how much exercise and analysis you apply, your body will never be perfect. Women leaders understand that and accept their bodies. Work with what you have, not against it.

Body Awareness says, “I am determined, motivated and disciplined.”

5)   Quality Over Quantity

Successful women know the worth of quality over quantity. Quality garments have good construction and a certain feel in the fabric. While a trendy piece certainly has its place in your closet, overall select pieces that will last for years to come, such as a cashmere cardigan or leather boots. Investing in these types of garments requires a little extra care. Make sure you take the time to dry clean, put items on hangers, check for moths, etc.

A quality wardrobe says, “ I can take care of what I’m given.”

6)   Expert Accessorizing

Once you’ve invested in a few quality pieces it’s time to play with accessories – they can transform the outfit and don’t need to cost an arm and leg. You can turn a ho-hum look into something catchy and current with the help of belts, handbags, scarves and jewelry.

Artful accessorizing says, “I can take something small and turn it into something big.”