What role does clothing play in your life?

Feeling seen is so important to all of us. Whether it’s our values, hobbies, interests, aspirations or personality, we all want people to see us for who we really are. I have clients tell me their aspirations during our consultations, which helps shape what type of style I create for them. 

The beauty of style is you can use clothing as a powerful tool to get ahead. What does this mean? Clothing says who you are without saying a word. Think: first-impressions, interviews, presenting a pitch, dates. entering a store or attending a networking event. These are all places and events where being seen as your best self really comes in handy, especially when you might not be able to engage with everyone.

I had a client who was an engineer, but wanted to start his own company that was focused on intertwining tech and art. Since he was Indian, he was afraid he was going to be put in an “engineer box” and get overlooked as a founder. It was a big concern for him because he was entering the world of arts. “I don’t want people to think I don’t know anything about art. I have so much interest and insight into this world, but no one can tell right off the bat.” I saw how he wanted to be seen right away.

First things first, we talked about what an artistic founder looks like. Artistic people love to have fun with their accessories like glasses, wear interesting shoes, opt for bolder prints and wear clothing that looks tailored. We switched his look from “polo shirt, jeans and running shoes” to “fun printed button down shirts, slim fit jeans and cool lace up boots”. We went for fabrics that were soft and stretchy so we wouldn’t sacrifice comfort.

He messaged me after his pitch telling me how great he felt. Not only did it feel good getting compliments on shirt, but he was able to embody his artistic side inside and out. He truly felt like an expert because he looked the part. As soon as he walked into the room, he got everyone’s attention as an expert. 

What does this look like for you? Are your clothes making you appear as you want to be seen? 

Enclothed Cognition: Your clothes effect your productivity

Did you know what you wear effects your psychological processes and behavioral tendencies? For example, wearing sweatpants or PJs makes you feel lethargic, while wearing something more tailored makes you feel focused.

Enclothed Cognition is a study done in 2012 by Adam and Galinsky, where they found what you wear effects your productivity. Your symbolic power outfit leads to more confidence, while your lounging clothes have the opposite effect. This study is so relevant in the time of Covid, especially for those of us who are not used to working from home. What you wear matters.

I’ve had clients reach out for help with their work from home clothes because they don’t feel like themselves anymore. The good news is there is hope! Next time you are getting ready to start your work day, opt for something comfortable and stylish. It doesn’t have to be a suit, but avoid old worn out joggers. It’s about having clean lines and some structure.

Ladies, go for soft dresses or jumpsuits over your college hoodies. Suede or leather leggings and stylish sweaters are perfect too. I also personally love knit blazers because they have the softness of a cardigan, but look of authority.

Gentlemen, stretchy chinos, stylish lounge pants, henleys and sweaters look great. Keep things somewhat fitted and crisp. In meetings, you’re mostly seeing the top half, so opt for something better than an old t-shirt.

Need help building your productive work from home wardrobe? Reach out to learn about virtual programs, where your new clothing comes straight to your home: supreet@stylebysupreet.com

Girl’s Edition: Effortlessly Chic

Love this effortlessly chic trench that can easily dress up any look. Light trenches are perfect for San Francisco, where it seems like you always need a layer! Red accessories make the outfit really stand out. Sub in red pointed toe flats for a walking score of 10/10.

Details:
Club Monaco Trench
Seven Jeans
Tart Top
Lonna and Lily Necklace
Vince Camuto Heels
YSL Bag

Girl’s Edition: Athleisure w/ Leather

Who says athleasure has to be sweatpants and a sweatshirt? Bring in some leather to make your look style forward, but tone it down with classics like white converse sneakers. Perfect for weekends or running errands! Looking for another leather jacket to add to your wardrobe? Try burgundy, blue or green!

Details:
J Crew Leather Jacket
Athleta Tank
Comme des Garcons Sweater
Helmut Lang Leather Leggings
Henri Bendel Backpack
Converse Sneakers

Girl’s Edition: A Night Out

Who doesn’t love a cute jumpsuit for a night out? For this look I chose to mix burgundy and deep green, which are gorgeous Fall colors that work so beautifully together! Toss on a leather jacket and you’re set for the rest of the night!

Details:
Club Monaco Jumpsuit
Mackage Jacket
Sam Edelman Heels
Ted Baker Bag
Gorjana Necklace
Kendra Scott Earrings 

Girl’s Edition: Kimonos + Leather

Fall = leather pants season! Loving these lace up leather pants paired with silver heels to add that extra unique touch. Kimonos make a great layering pieces for those of you who need to move away from cardigans, but can’t let go.

Details:
AG Leather Pants 
Michael Kors Booties
Theory Top
Dodo Bar Or Store Kimono