The Power of "Power Dressing"

Dictionary.com defines power dressing as a style of dressing in which business people wear formal clothes to make them seem powerful. Your clothes do not indicate your caliber or intellect but they do represent who you are and what message you want to put across. Especially, while making first impressions. You could be wearing a flowing blouse or the most romantic and trendiest pleated dress, but personally I believe that there is nothing more iconic and statement-making while still being professional than a power suit! In this post I am sharing some tips on how to create that power infused look while looking professional. 

Blazer: c/o Ann Taylor The Long 1-Button Blazer in Bi-Stretch | Pant: c/o Ann Taylor The Ankle Pant in Bi-Stretch - Curvy Fit | Top: c/o Ann Taylor Short Sleeve Top in Bi-Stretch

Curate a Professional Powerful Wardrobe
In order to feel powerful, you need to look powerful. This is why it is important to take the time, and curate a closet which reflects your style and wardrobe needs. Perhaps first start with a closet audit. Everything that you feel is holding you down, not sending the message you want it to send in the workforce – get rid of it. Once you have a clean and curated closet, it will become much easier not only to work with what is left but also to make new additions to your wardrobe.

Pair with a Unique Accessory
You may have to follow certain rules in your office environment, but there is always wiggle room for you to claim your stake, in both business and attire. How? With the power of great accessories. Your outfit may be similar to everyone else’s in your office, but the right lip color, a signature hairdo or a poignant pair of shoes can set you apart from the crowd. I paired this outfit with my a statement pair earrings/studs and a lavender coat, my own way of making infusing color in an otherwise gray look.

When in Doubt, Stay Timeless
The first thing you need to know about clothes is that it’s always, with no exceptions, better to own a few high-quality pieces than a closet full of items you impulsively bought during the sale season. If you don’t know where to start, a minimalist style will serve as a great guiding star. For example, this Ann Taylor set from their Bi-Stretch line is timeless, professional and of great quality. Purchasing one such set itself can be a worthwhile investment. You can mix and match it into different looks, and use each item as separates. Hence, timeless, high-quality pieces that always look sharp and elegant over current fads.

Don’t be Afraid of Wearing a Suit
Personally, I believe nothing is more powerful than a power suit. That's exactly why I chose this set from Ann Taylor for this post to make my point. In traditional work places you cannot probably experiment with many colors and might have to stick with an understated color palette. However, the cut, fabric and quality of a good suit can be incredibly potent, feminine and powerful at the same time.

And while we are on the topic of suit, you must see how my fellow blogger-friend Alison from Wardrobe Oxygen has styled her Ann Taylor set here, not one but two ways! Her style is edgy yet attainable and if you haven't already checked out her blog you have been missing out. Don't forget to to leave a comment on her post as well as below.

If you’re torn between comfort and style, always lean towards comfort. You won’t be able to exude power if you feel uncomfortable or restricted in any way. This is exactly why, if you don’t feel comfortable wearing high-heels and you think you never will, feel free to throw them to the curb and go for flats. There are so many chic and elegant flat choices that a woman doesn’t have to endure the pain of the stiletto if she doesn’t want to. This is your world now so bring your own rules.

 

 

Coat | c/o Blazer | c/o Top | c/o Pants | Shoes