Whether you like it or not, first impressions count for a lot in the business world and you will be judged by what you wear. Before you ever have the opportunity to say hello, shake hands or introduce yourself, the person you are meeting will see how you are dressed and will form an opinion of you based on that. It might sound shallow or superficial but this is the world we live in and as a businessman, you need to be aware of this. What’s more, studies have shown that first impressions are often formed in as little as seven seconds and once they are formed, they can be difficult to change. To make sure that you make the right impression from the outset, it’s crucial that you dress for success and put your best foot forward.
Dressing in your best corporate shirts, shining up your shoes, and wearing a sharp suit is all-important. However, if you truly want to go above and beyond to make a lasting impression on your clients, you need to learn about power dressing. Power dressing is a skill and once mastered, it can be used to instantly separate yourself from the pack. Power dressing is all about demonstrating your professionalism while not flaunting your wealth or coming across as arrogant. To make power dressing work for you, it’s crucial that you are able to show that you can play by the rules when it comes to corporate style but that you are also able to bend the rules with a certain level of confidence.
Let’s take a look at some simple tips and tricks to help you master the art of power dressing so you always make the best impression possible.
Choose A Bold-Coloured Tie
Nothing breaks up the monotony of a suit and shows confidence quite like a bright vibrant tie. Not only is this a chance to let your personality shine and to have some fun but you can also use psychology to your advantage too. Red colours have been proven to convey power, strength and energy, which are all characteristics every businessman should be looking to evoke.
Opt For A Double-Breasted Jacket
If you want to take your look to the next level, make sure that you choose a double-breasted jacket. This is a classic tailored look that will never go out of fashion and is the ideal choice for any businessman who wants to dress to impress. Choose a jacket in a smart colour and don’t be afraid to get creative with additional features such as metallic buttons or slightly larger lapels.
Add Some Personality With Your Socks
Business socks have become a big thing over the last number of years with playful colours and patterns becoming the norm in the business world. Like a brightly coloured tie, this is a fantastic opportunity to bring a little fun and personality to your look. There are many companies that specialise in cool business socks and they are a key component in any power dresser’s wardrobe.
Jazz Up Your Look With Pinstripes
While pinstripe suits were synonymous with bankers for years, nowadays, a pinstripe suit can be worn by any power dressing businessman. In fact, many would argue that the pinstripe suit is something that defines power dressing in the modern age. Subtle thin white stripes on an otherwise plain navy suit can help to elevate your look in a way that you might never have thought possible. If you’ve never owned a pinstripe suit, now is the time to up your game and improve your wardrobe with this classic addition.
Go Big When It Comes To Watches
Whatever you don’t dial it down when it comes to your watch choices. A stylish, well-appointed timepiece is key for any power dresser. A well-chosen watch highlights that you enjoy the finer things in life and will immediately enhance your overall look. Go big, choose a Swiss-made watch and you can be sure that you will look the part. Not only will you be on time for all of your meetings moving forward but you can be sure that you will always arrive in style, looking your very best.
Dress For Success And Move Your Career In The Right Direction
In the business world, it’s crucial that you put your best foot forward and that begins with how you present yourself. Power dressing is a skill that you can master with just a few small changes to your wardrobe. By simply adding a few new pieces to your clothing collection and changing up your look a little, you can be confident that you will always make a positive impression on anyone you meet in the business world. Dressing for success, you can be sure that more opportunities will open up to you, helping you to steer your career in the right direction moving forward.
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