Creative Director and Editor-in-Chief of FOXYLAB NEW YORK.
Style is more than just fashion. It plays a vital role in our lives, extending beyond mere trends and aesthetics. Our outward presentation holds immense power, particularly in our professional endeavors. As the saying goes, “First impressions count.” How we dress and the confidence we exude in our appearance can significantly impact our careers. So, it’s essential to dress for success and harness the potential of personal style.
Research conducted by Joy V. Peluchette and Katherine Karl—titled “The impact of workplace attire of employee self-perceptions”—has revealed fascinating insights about personal style. Their research found that people tend to feel more authoritative, trustworthy and competent when dressed in formal business attire. On the other hand, they felt friendliest when wearing casual or business casual clothing. This intriguing phenomenon demonstrates that clothing choices can indirectly affect our state of mind, which, in turn, reflects in our work.
Your personal style can become an integral part of your professional identity, earning you respect and recognition. By leveraging style effectively, you can differentiate yourself in the corporate world. The following tips will help you cultivate a unique and impactful style that resonates with your career goals.
Dressing With Intention
Each day, make a deliberate choice in your attire that aligns with your desired professional image. Consider the message you want to convey and select clothing that reflects your aspirations and values.
Embracing Your Unique Flair
Instead of conforming to societal norms, embrace your individuality. Incorporate elements that highlight your personality and set you apart from the crowd. Remember, authenticity is key.
Elevating Your Professional Wardrobe
Invest in high-quality pieces that exude sophistication and professionalism. Classic business attire, such as well-tailored suits and timeless dresses, can create an aura of competence and reliability.
Attention To Detail
Pay attention to the finer details of your ensemble, including grooming, accessories and footwear. These elements contribute to an overall polished appearance that commands respect.
Adapting To Different Settings
Understand the dress codes and expectations of various professional environments. Adapt your style accordingly to project a sense of adaptability and professionalism.
Personal Style And Career Trajectory: Real-Life Examples
I believe personal style has immense power to shape one’s career trajectory. Let’s take a closer look at the experiences of individuals who have successfully leveraged their unique styles to achieve recognition and success.
There are a few individuals I’ve been following for a while whose style truly inspires me. Take Chris Lavish, for example, a Fashion Week consultant and global digital director who’s gained recognition for his style. Notice how uniquely he presents himself at every outing and event. He’s showcased his style through Instagram and Facebook, which seems to support his work in fashion and as an internet personality. Combining a love for fashion with an affinity for a healthy lifestyle, Chris’ distinctive style choices are a great example of how to attract like-minded individuals and communities, including myself.
Khaycee Lynch, a Filipino-American content creator in the fashion and lifestyle industry, has profoundly inspired me with his journey. I’ve been following his account since the start of the pandemic, and if you take a look through his feed, you can clearly see how his style has developed over time.
Yeung King, a.k.a. MiLKx.x.x, a model and drummer, delves into experimenting with colors and curating matching ensembles with his canine companion. I’ve seen his fashion choices transition from predominantly neutral tones to a more diverse and experimental palette, making his fashion journey truly noteworthy.
When it comes to my style, I favor heavy boots rather than romantic dresses. I prefer oversized pieces like T-shirts, jeans and shorts. It’s essential for me to embody boldness in my professional fashion choices and feel comfort and ease.
When I created the FOXYLAB NY brand, my goal was to reflect my own personal style by incorporating oversized pants and incredibly comfortable garments into the collection. I am confident that many of these items are suitable for both genders to wear in their professional and personal lives and can be considered unisex. This is how I perceive the world and what makes me feel comfortable and confident every day.
When I look at these experiences, it becomes evident to me that personal style can impact one’s career trajectory. It acts as a visual language that can help you attract the right opportunities and connections. By nurturing and expressing your unique style, you can carve your own path in your industry.
Your personal style is a powerful tool that can shape how others perceive you on your professional journey. Dressing with intention, embracing your unique flair and carefully curating your wardrobe can help you become a thought leader in your field. Remember, you are the author of your style narrative, and if you display confidence and authenticity, the world will likely take notice of your remarkable achievements.
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