We've all heard the saying, "Dress for success," and there's a reason behind it. The way we dress has a significant impact on how we feel and how others perceive us.
It's not just about looking good; it's about transforming your entire outlook on life. In this article, we'll explore ten incredible things that change when you start dressing well.
1. Boost in Confidence:
Having that one outfit you know makes you look your best can be the solution on days you feel low, it makes you feel amazing. Making the effort to work on your style will really boost your confidence. See it as a way to showcase your personality, your mood and look at how self-assured in any situation you become!
2. Improved Self-Image:
It will also help you develop a positive self-image. I see dressing as a form of expression. You can use your clothes and accessories to share the mood you're in, to express who you are, to tell the world how you'd like to be perceived -not in a deceptive way because you need authenticity to look put together but in a guiding way - it really is a way to say "this is who I am, here is how you can address me".
Investing time and effort into your appearance will lead you to appreciate and love yourself more, and to an increased self-esteem.
3. Professional Advancement:
Whether it's a job interview, promotion opportunity or day-to-day work, dressing well can significantly impact your professional life. I remember the times I worked in an office and refused to follow the mass by preferring chic attire over casual dressing. My credibility, wether it was towards clients or hierarchical superiors, was high. I was seen as more reliable, more professional, and it did change a lot of things. Not only it helped making things a little easier around me at work, but it inspired other women to make an effort in their choice of clothing too! They were happy to express their femininity and it did boost their confidence.
When you dress the part, you exude professionalism and competence, making you stand out from the crowd.
4. Enhanced First Impressions:
First impressions are crucial, and your attire plays a vital role in shaping them. Wether you like it or not, we judge by the cover of the book, especially the first few seconds we are meeting someone. We unconsciously want to establish if this person we are meeting for the first time is someone reliable, if they can be trusted.
Making the effort to dress properly everyday, even when we don't have anything special planned, is a way to always be prepared in case we unexpectedly meet a person that might be an asset in our life.
You will make a memorable and positive first impression, leaving a lasting impact on others.
5. Improved Relationships:
Dressing well can positively influence your relationships. When you take care of your appearance, it shows that you value yourself and others. I keep telling this story but it is the most impactful I remember: when I worked in an office in finances, I wasn't over the top but I was just being Nadia, meaning I would carefully put together an outfit everyday that states "I am in finances, I am elegant and feminine, I am reliable, professional but also interesting" - to exude this I would wear a sober office attire and wear one statement jewlery (a colourful ring, colourful earrings or a nice scarf) paired with good heels and impeccable grooming. One day, my colleagues were pointing out how I always look put together and asked me... "why?" and I replied "1. I respect myself and it sets my mood. 2. I consider you guys to be important enough for me to make the effort" and oh boy how they liked the reason 2! They felt immediatly empowered! We don't realize it but the way we dress not only says a lot about ourselves but it also says a lot about what you think of those who surround you everyday.
If you start your journey towards a more elegant version of yourself, just be aware that some people may hide their insecurities by "mocking" the fact that you would want to dress well. Ignore them, they just wish they had your courage. If you must respond to them, explain them the 2 reasons I gave above and watch them being inspired by you! People are naturally drawn to those who take pride in their appearance.
6. Increased Attention to Detail:
Dressing well requires attention to detail. From choosing the right accessories to coordinating colours, you develop a keen eye for detail that spills over into other aspects of your life, such as organisation and problem-solving.
7. Heightened Productivity:
Believe it or not, dressing well can boost your productivity. When you dress in clothes that make you feel good, you're more likely to approach tasks with enthusiasm and focus, leading to increased productivity and success. I know that when I need to tackle some work from my home office, I will "dress" for it. I could stay in my pyjamas and just sit there, no one can see me but the truth is, when you are dressed for it, you are setting your mind to success. I am always more productive when I do it.
8. Improved Mental Well-being:
The way we dress can impact our mental well-being. It is the same principle as "smile to get a smile back". Some days, we don't feel like it, we may feel down, unmotivated, with the energy level below zero... But trust me, do your hair, put your make-up on, dress like you are killing it and show up anyway! Some call it "pretend" but I call it the "autopilot mode". It did save me many times. Sometimes you need to use that function when your brain needs some rest but the work still needs to be done.
When you dress well, you feel more put-together and ready to take on the world. It boosts your mood, reduces stress, and improves overall mental health.
9. Increased Respect from Others:
When you dress well, you command respect from others. Like I mentionned earlier, people perceive you as someone who takes themselves seriously and pays attention to detail. This respect does open doors and create opportunities in various aspects of your life. I honestly cannot wait for you to try and see for yourself!
10. Personal Growth:
Again, it isn't just about the clothes; it's about personal growth. It requires self-reflection, self-expression, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. Dressing well is art. Learn about your canva and your tools. What I mean by that is you need to dig and learn about yourself if you want to authentically express this gorgeous personality of yours. Establish what are your values, how do you define yourself and how you want to be perceived. What do you want to be known for? Then learn to express it through your style, find a signature.
Learn different styles and experiment with your wardrobe, it can take a bit of time but you'll discover new aspects of yourself and grow as an individual.
Dressing well is a transformative journey that goes beyond superficial appearances. It impacts your confidence, relationships, and overall well-being. So, embrace the power of dressing well and unlock a world of positive change in your life. Remember, when you look good, you feel good, and the possibilities become endless.
Luckily for you, I used to have an in-depth programme that would provide all the knowledge to develop the skills you need, this programme is no longer delivered through consulting however, it will be available in a comprehensive book I am working on pretty soon! Don't hesitate to subscribe to get an alert whenever it is out!
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