When You Look in Your Closet…
Do your clothes represent:
- Who you were?
- Who you are?
- Or who you want to be?
Most professionals I work with have clothes from different versions of themselves, and usually, it’s clothes and styles they’ve outgrown. Even though they have achieved career milestones and clarity around who they want to be, they’re still dressing for the past. It’s not just about outdated clothes or style. It’s about identity.
What about you? When you look in your closet, what version of yourself do you see?
The Waiting Trap: What Are You Postponing?
I often hear these phrases:
- “I’ll update my wardrobe once I lose the weight.”
- “I’ll shop when I get the promotion.”
- “I’ll buy clothes when I have more time or when I am a size ____.”
Here’s the truth. While you’re waiting, life isn’t. The opportunity. The leadership role. The connection. Even your confidence is quietly slipping away. Your presence speaks volumes when you walk into a room, a meeting, on stage, or into a networking event. Even when your presence is silent, you are sending a message. What are your clothes saying?
The Plan: Reimagine Your Power Suit
Let’s flip the script. Your “power suit” doesn’t have to be a suit. It doesn’t have to be stiff, boxy, or traditional. It’s not about shoulder pads or three-piece sets anymore. It’s about showing up authentically, on brand, and with confidence.
Your power suit or outfit might be:
- A monochromatic outfit with a bold accessory
- An awesome top, tailored slacks, and a fun pair of boots
- A minimalist outfit in your power color
Whatever it is, make it your own. It should feel like you, but amplified. When you show up authentically, on brand, and with confidence, your style becomes a signal. You communicate without speaking. You make an impression before you ever say a word.
The Mindset Shift: You’re Already a Rockstar
Let me say this loud and clear: You don’t need to wait until you’ve “arrived” to dress the part. Whether you’re leading a team or just got the job, whether you’re attempting to crush your goals or are still figuring things out, you’re a rockstar. You’re worthy of taking up space. What you wear every day is an opportunity to broadcast your greatness with your style. Your outdated clothes can keep you feeling small and invisible. Your wardrobe should reflect who you are now and where you’re going, not your past.
The Impact: Style as a Strategic Advantage
When I give presentations, I show a slide with two images:
- A Tiffany-blue box
- A gift wrapped in crumpled brown paper and twine
And I ask the audience: Which one would you choose? Nearly everyone picks the Tiffany box. Why? Because it sends a clear message of value, care, intention, and impact. You are the gift. Every day, you choose how to wrap yourself. Are you presenting yourself as a polished, confident leader or an overwhelmed, last-minute version of yourself?
Your clothes can be a strategic advantage, and when you use them intentionally, you will stand out from the competition. When you show up consistently on brand, you build trust and connection more easily.
Action Tip: Create a power outfit that works for your everyday life.
An outfit that feels authentic, whether you’re going into a meeting, a virtual call, or out to a networking event. Start with:
- A base you love (slacks, a top, a dress, or a skirt)
- A color that flatters or features your brand color
- One standout element: a belt, bold shoes, a statement necklace, or a hero piece
Then wear it. See how you feel. That’s the beginning of a consistent, confident style.
If your current wardrobe doesn’t reflect the impact you’re capable of making, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. I work with business professionals to elevate their wardrobes, so their clothes match who they are now and who they want to become. Ready to build a power look that’s authentic to who you are today? Let’s connect. Book a Style Inspo Session or email me to learn more.