Dressing for success

For all the knowledge and savvy needed to climb the corporate ladder, it’s a hard truth that work ethic is often judged by attire. A female advisor could spend weeks preparing to meet that high-net worth client but if her appearance is lacklustre – or even sloppy – it will degrade her work in others’ eyes.

“Dressing inappropriately sends the message that you don’t care about your work, and you shouldn’t be taken seriously,” says Suki Mattu Brown, an image consultant with Global Image Group, which provides impression management services worldwide. “If you’re dressed properly, however, it will show that you know what you’re doing. You’re saying, ‘I respect my colleague and my clients’.”

Follow these guidelines for a confident style that’s sure to embrace your powerful self.

The basics

Every professional woman should have a neutral-coloured suit – like beige, black or grey – it will go with everything and no one will know if you wear it often, says Angie Miller, Principal Director of Little Black Dress image consultants in Toronto. A crisp, white cotton shirt can easily become your “go-to” on busy mornings, and a variety of blouses in colours and prints will keep your suit from looking too severe, says Miller.

Shoes should look sharp but feel comfortable, after all, you’ve got to stay in them for most of the day. Slingbacks that make noise while you walk are also out.

If the suit fits

When buying a suit, take into account the cut, tailoring, and quality of the material, says Miller. If the fabric drops off at the shoulders, the jacket is too large. You want a perfect, flat line for a tailored look. Don’t be afraid to walk around a dressing room and imitate your daily movements, says Miller. Take a seat to see if the pants bunch, and bend your arms to check if cuffs are too short.

As for style, your suit should last through trends with a shape that fits your figure. For many women, that means a nip in the waist. Resist the urge to judge suits on expense, and instead focus on how it fits you – and how you feel in it.

Spend or save?

While a suit, shoes, and leather handbag are worth investing in, some items can be purchased each season. Pretty blouses are easy to come by, says Miller, and they’re a way to stay on trend without blowing you budget. Focus on tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched, rather than spending on dresses – which only equal one look.

What to avoid

A hint of cleavage is fine, but any more than that will border on inappropriate. Miller’s rule is to gauge by jewelry: – avoid baring décolletage more than an inch or an inch and a half below your necklace.

Skirts should hit at the knee or just above. If you find yourself trying to hold something up, or pull it down, then it’s likely your clothes are too tight. “You don’t want to look like you’re taking caution or care,” says Miller. “It will give the impression that you’re unsure of yourself.”

Express yourself

“I tell clients to embrace their femininity, but not their sexuality,” says Miller. It sounds like a slight distinction, but where a womanly look can exude power, a sexy outfit may display insecurity. Donning accessories like silk scarves and jewellery can express personal style and soften a power suit without getting flirty. “When clothes are simple, appropriate, and fit perfectly, people will see the essence of a woman,” says Brown. After all, it’s intelligence and savvy that got you there.