Why What You Wear Matters: Exploring the Psychology of Clothing on Career Success

Are you aware of the potential impacts of your outfit on your daily life? You may be surprised to learn that what you wear isn't solely about style – it can wield influence over your emotions, interactions, and the impressions you leave on others. Let’s delve into the intriguing realm of workplace fashion and consider the profound importance of our clothing choices on our confidence and career success.

The Psychological Impacts of What You Wear

Imagine this scenario: you're slipping into your favourite tailored trousers and that well-made blouse. Or maybe its your favourite red blazer or a good fitting dress. Suddenly, a sense of confidence and power washes over you. Believe it or not, it's no coincidence. Our clothing choices carry a deep psychological impact on our mood and self perception. Consider the power suit – it’s not just a name they're not just garments; they're considered a form of armour particualry for women working in male dominated areas. When you don an outfit that resonates with your emotions or aspirations, you're sending yourself a message of "I've got this."

Think back to that crucial meeting where you wore your lucky accessories or your “I mean business” blazer. You weren't merely relying on their magical properties; you were also bolstering your self assurance. Clothing is more than just an external layer; it's a mirror reflecting your inner self, empowering you to embrace life's challenges – step by stylish step.

Enclothed cognition was first discussed in a 2012 study by Hajo Adam and Adam Galinsky who studied the impact of a group of random people wearing a white lab coat. When participants were told the lab coat belonged to a doctor they performed better on cognitive tests than participants that were told the lab coat belonged to an artist. So the expression dressing for the job you want may actually have its merits.

Additional, professor of psychology Abraham Rutchick found in 2015 that people who wore a suit or blazer to work felt more powerful and confident leading to better decisions and the ability to take on negative feedback better. There is a reason we were encouraged to still get dressed for work during pandemic lockdowns and working online, it puts you in a ‘work’ frame of mind and helps with focus.

Dressing with intention to build confidence is a subtle way for you to harness your inner strength and present your best self in any circumstance. The power of selecting attire that resonates with your personal style and professional aspirations cannot be underestimated. When you put on an outfit that makes you feel empowered, comfortable, and aligned with your goals, it's like wearing a suit of confidence. The right clothing can help you stand taller, project assurance, and face challenges with a positive mindset. It's a tangible reminder of your capabilities and a visual affirmation of your journey. By choosing attire that embodies your self assuredness, you're setting the stage for career success and paving the way to conquer new horizons.

What are you projecting to the world through your clothing choices?

Have you ever noticed how you subconsciously select outfits based on your emotional state? On a radiant day, you might gravitate towards those vibrant hues that echo your joy. And during moments of introspection, those cosy layers provide a sense of comfort. Our clothing choices extend beyond aesthetics; they act as a subtle language conveying our emotions to the world.

Opting for that distinct scarf or those elegant earrings isn't merely about fashion; it's a means of expressing your character and mood. Embrace your individuality through your clothing preferences, and witness how the right ensemble can elevate your spirits and resonate with those around you.

Here at Peak Women, we are on a mission to help you to stand out for all of the right reasons. This includes talking about the importance of how you dress in the work place but also providing suitable clothing options that will empower and inspire you to work towards your career success. Our Confidence Blazer has been specifically designed with positive affirmations throughout so that not only do you get the natural boost from wearing an amazingly comfortable blazer, the extra positive affirmations reinforce the cognitive changes that you experience when you put it on.

If you are wearing an outfit that makes you feel confident and good about yourself that will shine through to others through your body language, facial expressions, communication style and reactions. Going out into the world in a confidence inspiring outfit that makes you feel good will make you show up differently to if you feel underdressed or aren’t feeling the colour or style you have on. If you’re uncomfortable for any reason, that feeling can project onto others and make them feel uncomfortable as well impacting your interactions and their perception of you potentially impacting your career success. No one wants to be around others that make them feel uncomfortable.  

How are you being perceived by others based on your outfit?

At work, projecting an air of capability and confidence is key. The clothing you choose plays a significant role in how others perceive you. When you exude confidence in well-tailored attire, you broadcast your professionalism and self assuredness. People quickly grasp that you're prepared to take charge – whether you're engaging with clients or managing intricate projects. Bear in mind, each outfit communicates, shaping how others approach and connect with you.

Formal clothing can reduce the ability to interact socially so depending on your role you may want to experiment with styles that still build your confidence but also appear approachable to clients, employees or students. There is a reason most law enforcement agencies transitioned to a dark navy or royal blue over the last decade or so. That colour balances authority, respect and trust allowing them to maintain control and issue direction where required in certain situations while still being approachable to those in need of police assistance or protection.

If you were at a café or the dentist, you wouldn’t want someone in dirty unkept clothing touching your food or putting their hands in your mouth – gloved or not, the same applies in the office workplace. Unfortunately, the unconscious (and sometimes conscious) bias exists but there is a way to help it work in your favour. One of the main concepts behind our brand is helping women like you stand out for all the right reasons to achieve your definition of career success. If you want to ask for that pay rise, are interviewing for promotion or want the next opportunity to come your way help the decision makers by out dressing the competition and showing up in a way that resonates professionally with that particular  workplace but also empowers you to have those conversations with confidence. 

Underdressing versus Overdressing

Navigating the fine line between underdressing and overdressing in the workplace can be a delicate task for professional women. Striking the right balance is essential to leaving a lasting impression. Underdressing might inadvertently communicate a lack of seriousness or respect for the professional environment, while overdressing could convey an undue formality that doesn't align with the workplace culture. The key lies in observing the cues from colleagues and understanding the company's dress code. Adapting your attire to align with the level of formality within your industry not only ensures that you are respected for your professionalism but also allows you to confidently contribute your skills and expertise to the workplace. If it’s your first day or you are going for an interview do some research beforehand, visit their website or social media pages and see what the bosses are wearing or stalk the building first thing in the morning to see how people are dressed when they arrive.

We would caution you though to always go that slight step further and lean on the side of overdressing as part of your stand out for all the right reasons approach. As Vivien Westwood used to say,

“When in doubt, Overdress.”

So how do you find your version of professional style?

So now that we know why it’s important, I can hear you thinking, ‘how do I put this in practice?’ Well I’m not going to tell you to buy a whole new wardrobe, employee a stylist or do a colour matching course. Instead, as you stand before your wardrobe, recognise that your clothing choices possess a depth that transcends appearance. Go through your wardrobe and collection of work clothes identifying how they make you feel. The ones that make you feel amazing, keep those front and centre, keeping an eye out for similar styles to add in. Anything that makes you feel less than amazing or worse donate! There is no point keeping it in there as you will be tempted to put it on when you are having a not so great day. 

If you don’t already own at least one blazer, you can start simple with a black one that you can get from any women’s clothing store. Or if you want to be a little bolder check out our Confidence Blazer here.

Your clothes wield the ability to influence emotions, articulate inner selves, and mould how others perceive you. Embrace your distinct style, allowing your attire to mirror your emotions and ambitions. After all, the garments you wear are more than threads – they're a reflection of your unique journey through your journey to career success.