How To Dress For Success

1. Dress for the Success You Envision, Not Just the Job You Have

The way you dress—or package yourself—is the one thing over which you have absolute control.

Project the Image. Dressing for success isn't merely about fitting in; it's about projecting the image of where you aspire to be. This means understanding the "executive look" in your chosen field and gradually incorporating elements of it into your wardrobe, even before you attain that position. It's about signaling your ambition and readiness for advancement.

Beyond the "Acceptance Look." While it's crucial to initially dress in a way that aligns with the existing culture of a company or industry, don't remain stagnant. Once you've proven your worth, subtly elevate your style to reflect the next level. This could involve investing in higher-quality pieces, coordinating outfits more meticulously, or adopting a more polished overall appearance.

Authenticity Matters. While projecting an image is important, it must be rooted in authenticity. Don't try to be someone you're not, but rather, use clothing to express your potential and capabilities. The goal is to enhance your natural qualities and present the best version of yourself, not to create a false persona.

2. Know Your Body Type and Dress Accordingly

Women come in a vast variety of recognizable basic types: the cute type, the majestic type, the dainty type, the boyish type, the clinging-vine type, the outdoor-girl type, the sexy type and many others.

Analyze Your Figure. Understanding your body shape is paramount to dressing well. This involves honestly assessing your proportions, identifying your assets and liabilities, and choosing clothing that flatters your figure. Don't blindly follow trends; instead, select styles that complement your unique shape.

Embrace Your Type. Recognize your natural "type" – whether it's classic, bohemian, dramatic, or romantic – and let that guide your clothing choices. This doesn't mean limiting yourself, but rather, using your type as a foundation for building a cohesive and authentic style.

Camouflage Strategically. Use clothing to create optical illusions that enhance your best features and minimize perceived flaws. This could involve using color, pattern, and silhouette to create a more balanced and flattering figure. For example, vertical stripes can elongate the body, while darker colors can minimize problem areas.

3. Accessories: The Secret Weapons of a Successful Wardrobe

The ‘Successories’ of Your Wardrobe or Accessories Season the Costume.

Transformative Power. Accessories are the unsung heroes of a successful wardrobe. They can elevate a simple outfit, express your personality, and create a variety of looks with a limited number of core pieces. A well-chosen hat, scarf, or piece of jewelry can make all the difference.

Strategic Selection. Choose accessories that complement your overall style and enhance your best features. Consider your face shape, skin tone, and body type when selecting jewelry, hats, and scarves. Avoid accessories that are distracting or overwhelming.

Quality over Quantity. Invest in a few high-quality accessories that will stand the test of time, rather than a multitude of cheap, trendy items. Classic pieces like a leather handbag, a silk scarf, and a string of pearls can be worn with a variety of outfits and will always be in style.

4. Underneath It All: Foundation Garments are Key

The habits of some new brides on that most idyllic of all vacations were a great shock to me on a recent trip to Bermuda.

The Foundation Matters. What you wear underneath your clothes is just as important as what you wear on the outside. Foundation garments, such as bras, girdles, and slips, provide the support and shaping needed to create a smooth, flattering silhouette.

Right Garments for the Right Clothes. Different outfits require different foundation garments. A form-fitting dress may require a seamless girdle, while a loose-fitting shift may only need a comfortable bra. Choose undergarments that are appropriate for the style and fabric of your clothing.

Confidence from Within. Wearing well-fitting, comfortable undergarments can boost your confidence and make you feel more put-together. This inner confidence will radiate outward and enhance your overall appearance.

5. Color is Your Ally: Use it Wisely

Color is probably more important than any other factor in dressing for success.

Know Your Color Aura. Understanding your natural coloring – skin tone, hair color, and eye color – is essential for choosing colors that flatter you. Determine whether you have warm or cool undertones and select colors that complement your complexion.

Color Psychology. Colors evoke different emotions and project different images. Use color strategically to convey the message you want to send. For example, blue can project trustworthiness, while red can project confidence and power.

Versatility and Accents. Build a wardrobe of versatile neutral colors that can be easily accessorized with pops of color. Use colorful scarves, jewelry, and handbags to add personality and interest to your outfits.

6. Camouflage Strategically: Conceal and Enhance

Camouflage, just as it deceives the enemy in wartime, can be utilized by you to help conceal your secret shortcomings.

Optical Illusions. Use clothing to create optical illusions that enhance your best features and minimize perceived flaws. This could involve using color, pattern, and silhouette to create a more balanced and flattering figure.

Proportion and Balance. Pay attention to proportion and balance when choosing clothing. For example, if you have wide hips, balance them with broader shoulders or a more voluminous top. If you have a short torso, elongate it with high-waisted pants or skirts.

Acceptance and Confidence. While camouflage can be helpful, it's important to accept and love your body as it is. Focus on enhancing your best features and projecting confidence, rather than obsessing over perceived flaws.

7. Shop Smart: Plan and Prioritize

First, organize your purchases. Don’t be carried away by that cute little orange dress when you have no suitable shoes, bag, gloves or hat to go with it, unless you can afford a complete set of accessories for every outfit.

Create a Plan. Before you go shopping, create a plan that outlines your needs, budget, and style goals. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.

Prioritize Essentials. Invest in high-quality essentials that will form the foundation of your wardrobe, such as a well-fitting suit, a classic coat, and versatile separates. These pieces can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits.

Shop with Intention. When you're in a store, ask yourself whether each item fits into your overall plan and complements your existing wardrobe. Avoid buying things simply because they're on sale or because you like them in the moment.

8. Dressing the Part: Family Success Reflects on You

If you are married and a mother, your sense of the fitness of things will be judged not alone on what you wear, but on how your husband and your children look every day in the week as well as on Sundays.

Family Image. As a wife and mother, your attention to style extends beyond your own wardrobe. The way your family presents themselves reflects on your taste, care, and dedication. Ensuring they are well-dressed contributes to the overall family image.

Husband's Wardrobe. Take an active role in curating your husband's wardrobe. Offer guidance on color coordination, fit, and appropriate attire for various occasions. A well-dressed husband enhances your own appearance and reflects positively on your partnership.

Children's Style. Teach your children the importance of dressing appropriately for different situations. Instill in them a sense of style and respect for their clothing. Well-dressed children reflect positively on your parenting and values.

9. Age is Just a Number: Dress Youthfully, Not Childishly

Youth is the keynote of the age we live in, and it has become the greatest selling force in the merchandising of everything a woman wears or uses.

Embrace Youthfulness. While aging is inevitable, you can maintain a youthful spirit and appearance by dressing in a way that is modern, stylish, and flattering. Avoid clothing that is frumpy, outdated, or overly conservative.

Avoid Extremes. There's a fine line between dressing youthfully and dressing childishly. Avoid clothing that is too trendy, revealing, or age-inappropriate. The goal is to look vibrant and energetic, not to mimic a younger generation.

Focus on Fit and Quality. As you age, fit and quality become even more important. Choose clothing that flatters your figure and is made from high-quality materials that will stand the test of time.

Last updated: March 9, 2025