Are you a small business owner or a bonafide entrepreneur who wants to master the art of dressing well? Have you ever wondered if your professional or personal attires are projecting the image that you have in mind?
We live in a world where first impressions are paramount, and the way we dress usually affects how others perceive us. And that’s not all! According to Brainfodder (1) , our attires can also affect our thoughts, moods, as well as the way we act - a concept better known as “Enclothed Cognition”.
Therefore, carefully choosing how we want to present ourselves to the world will not only help us make a long-lasting impression but will also help us feel better. Two birds with one stone, right?
So, if you have ever wondered about how to dress and project the image that you want, while also improving your well-being don’t worry, I have got you covered!
But first things first, let’s explore the relationship between our well-being and the way we dress:
What is "Enclothed cognition"?
Enclothed cognition is a psychological concept that describes the impact of our attire on our emotions, self-assessments, attitudes, as well as interactions with others(2) .
A study conducted on several participants showed that wearing a lab coat helped them perform better on cognitive tests, given its association with the characteristics of scientists or medical practitioners(3) .
This shows that the way we present ourselves, from the colors we choose to the fabrics we wear, extends beyond mere aesthetics; it significantly impacts our mood, self-esteem, and the impressions we make on ourselves as well as on others. Enclothed cognition is, therefore, a reminder that our clothing is not just a matter of style but a tool that can empower us!
So, without further ado, let’s dive in and learn more about the Dress to impress: A 7 Tips Guide For Every Entrepreneur:
Understand Your Industry Researching the norms and dress code expectations of your industry before you embark on a quest to dress to impress, will save you a lot of mistakes. Do you work in a creative field or are you the founder of a law firm? Dress codes vary greatly from one industry to the other and what might be acceptable in one, might be frowned upon in another. As a creative person for example, you can usually dress as freely as you would like and showcase your personality through your style. But in the corporate world, playing the part by following the dress code is essential if you want to be taken seriously. Research the standards within your specific field and aim to align with them while also adding your personal touch.
What is Your Brand Identity? Before you start building your business wardrobe, take a moment to understand your brand's identity. Your style should also be aligned with your business brand. Take a moment to think about the image you want to project to the world. Research entrepreneurs whose style or business model you admire and try to see if you can recreate it while adding your touch. Consider Steve Jobs, for example, the co-founder of Apple, who was known for his signature black turtleneck and jeans. Not only has his attire mirrored the minimalistic and innovative nature of the Apple brand, but it has also maximized his efficiency and helped him forge a unique persona that is recognizable worldwide.
Dress according to your business schedule: After establishing the groundwork, it is now time to look at your schedule. Are you having a day full of meetings with investors or will you be working alone? For maximum efficiency, I would advise you to pick a go-to outfit or style, for the most recurrent situations. For example, when I am working from home all day, my go-to outfit is leggings and a T-shirt, but when I am meeting with clients I wear more serious outfits such as blouses with pants or jeans. Different business events and meetings may require varying degrees of formality, which is why I recommend you pay attention to the specifics of each occasion and dress accordingly. A suit might be perfect for a formal presentation for example, while business-casual attire might be better suited for a team meeting.
Focus on Fit No matter how expensive or stylish your attire is, it won't impress anyone if it doesn't fit you well. Choose clothes that fit you perfectly or focus on tailoring. Get the clothes that do not fit you altered to your body's specific measurements. It will ensure a flattering and professional appearance because a well-fitted outfit exudes confidence and competence. Elon Musk, the visionary behind Tesla and SpaceX, emphasizes the importance of well-fitted clothing. His suits are always sleek and his tailored shirts mirror his meticulous attention to detail in his businesses.
Accessorize your way to the top! Accessories can elevate your look and help you infuse some personality into the most classical outfits. A statement watch, a tasteful tie, or a stylish pair of earrings can enhance your outfit and make it memorable. Accessories are in my opinion, one of the best ways to express yourself, even in the most conservative of industries, so my advice would be to go as wild as you would like, if of course that suits your personality, and the image you are looking to project!
Personal Grooming definitely Matters It goes without saying but dressing to impress goes hand in hand with personal grooming. Keep your hair, nails, and skin well-maintained because proper grooming adds to your overall professional image. A neat appearance shows that you take care of yourself, which can signify that it also extends to your business dealings.
Comfort is always key! As a business owner, you're likely to spend a significant amount of time on your feet, attending meetings, networking events, or overseeing your operations. Invest in comfortable, well-made shoes and clothes. After all, your clothes and shoes should not only look the part but they should also ensure that you can spend the whole day in the attire of your choice without experiencing discomfort.
In conclusion,
Dress to impress is an art that communicates your professionalism and credibility, as well as your attention to detail.
In addition to these seven tips, it is crucial to remember that dressing to impress is not just about your clothing but also the confidence you exude. When you feel good you look good because it reflects in your posture and demeanor.
After all, dressing well is not just about appearances; it's about having a tool that will make you feel more confident and capable in your role as a business owner.
What is one crucial tip you follow as a business owner when choosing your outfit? Share with me your thoughts in the comments below.
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