Is Your Wardrobe Holding You Back
Why Your Wardrobe Matters in Business
In business these days, it’s not about having the latest tech or the most innovative ideas; how you present yourself is crucial. If you’re a successful woman, especially navigating midlife and running a business, there’s a hidden barrier that could be undermining your brand’s impact: your wardrobe.
You’ve built a brilliant career, but if you’re feeling that twinge of doubt, wondering if your style is truly aligned with your message, you’re not alone. Let’s dig into why this might be happening and how you can refresh your wardrobe to keep your personal style and brand vibrant and impactful.
The Surprising Impact of an Outdated Wardrobe
It might seem trivial on the surface, but your wardrobe is a powerful communicator of your personal brand. Clothes aren’t just fabric and thread; they’re a reflection of who you are and how you want to be seen. If your wardrobe hasn’t evolved to match your current success and ambitions, you might be sending the wrong message without even realising it.
Is Your Wardrobe Holding You Back? Signs to Watch For
Here’s how:
1. Inconsistent Image: If your clothes no longer reflect the professional and personal image you want to project, it can create a disconnect between how you see yourself and how others see you. This misalignment can impact your credibility and influence, making it harder for you to command the fees you deserve.
2. Confidence and Self-Perception: Wearing clothes that don’t resonate with your current achievements or aspirations can knock your confidence. When you look in the mirror and see an outdated version of yourself, it’s easy to feel frumpy and meh, which can affect how you feel and interact with others in both personal and professional settings.
3. Audience Perception: Your wardrobe is a key part of your personal brand. An outdated style might suggest stagnation or a lack of attention to detail, which can influence how your clients and audience perceive your expertise and value.
Signs It’s Time for a Wardrobe Refresh
Before jumping into solutions, let’s figure out if you have WTF Syndrome (wardrobe that’s failing) and that’s holding you back:
· Wardrobe Stagnation: You find yourself reaching for the same things over and over, and nothing in your wardrobe excites you anymore.
· Style Disconnect: Your outfits don’t quite match the level of your professional achievements and aspirations.
· Lack of Joy: Getting dressed feels like a chore, and you’re not excited about trying new outfit combos – a definite sign that your wardrobe isn’t reflecting your personal style or brand.
How to Revamp Your Wardrobe and Align It with Your Brand
Now that we’ve spotted the potential issues, let’s dive into how you can transform your wardrobe to truly reflect your dynamic brand:
1. Start with a Wardrobe Audit
Take everything out of your wardrobe and have a good look at what you’ve got.
Ask yourself:
Does this jumper/jacket/top reflect the image I want to project?
Does it still fit nicely?
Is it relevant to my current style?
How often do I wear this?
How do I feel when I wear it?
Be honest with yourself. If something no longer serves you, it’s time to let it go. Create space for pieces that align with who you are now and where you’re heading.
2. Define the Image You Want to Project
Think about how you want to be seen. There’s a saying “If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck.” This is where your “Duck Words” come in.
Consider:
·What are my core values and message?
How do I want to be perceived by my clients and peers?
What elements of my personal style make me feel empowered and authentic?
Creating a mood board for style inspiration on Pinterest can be really helpful here. Gather images that reflect the look and feel you’re aiming for – it’s all about visualising your next level.
3. Invest in Heroes & the Supporting Cast
Build your wardrobe with versatile, high-quality items that align with your desired image.
Here’s how:
Quality Over Quantity: Focus on fewer, better pieces that make you feel fabulous. Think about the type of thing that always makes you feel great and buy the best you can afford.
Signature/Hero Items: Identify a few standout things that make a statement and reflect your personal brand – whether it’s a bold accessory or a unique garment
Supporting Cast : Make sure you have a solid foundation of wardrobe staples like that you can mix and match.
How to Revamp Your Wardrobe and Align It with Your Brand
4. Play with Colour and Patterns
Colour and patterns aren’t just about looking good; they can boost your mood and how others see you.
Here’s how to use them:
Choose Colours that Empower: Choose colours that suit you, make you feel confident and full of energy. (Have a colour analysis session with me if you’re not sure.)
Look into colour psychology to see how different colours can influence your mood and the messages they send.
Patterns with Purpose: Use pattern and prints that align with your style personality, but steer clear of anything that overpowers you.
5. Get Professional Help if You Need It
If you’re feeling stuck, “Hello”! Consider investing in working with me. Once I get your brand and your goals I can offer insights into what works best for your body shape, style personality, and help you express yourself within your image.
6. Keep an Eye on Trends
While it’s important to stick to your unique style, staying aware of trends can keep you current and says that you aren’t a stick in the mud. It’s important to adapt trends that resonate with your personal style and brand, but don’t follow them blindly. You don’t want to go off track with your identity or look like mutton dressed as lamb.
7. Make Regular Updates
Your wardrobe should evolve and grow with you. Set aside time every few months to reassess your clothing and make necessary tweaks. This will keep your wardrobe fresh and aligned with your personal brand and growing business.
Maintaining Wardrobe Relevance
Refreshing your wardrobe to better reflect your impressive career and success isn’t just about looking good – it’s about aligning your personal style with your brand’s message. By addressing any inconsistencies and embracing a style that truly empowers you, you’ll enhance your confidence, credibility, and overall brand impact.
Remember, your wardrobe is a powerful tool for communicating your professional image. By investing time and thought into it, you’re not just enhancing your personal style but also reinforcing your brand’s strength and relevance. Embrace this transformation and see how it positively affects your personal and professional life.
Ready to transform your wardrobe and align it with your brand? Let’s make it happen together! Register for my free Shop Your Wardrobe Challenge here.
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