Personal Style is the Key to Beating Imposter Syndrome And Building Confidence
Have you ever seen a person walking down the street in a perfect outfit and thought, "I wish I could be more like them?"
This is a super common experience.
You don't know anything about that mysterious stranger, and their life could be a total wreck.
But why do you assume they have it all together? Because they look put together.
Humans are visual creatures, for better or worse, and we take what we see at face value. Use this to your advantage instead of letting it get you down!
You can speak volumes with your style without saying a word.
With the right outfit, you can instantly command any room you enter and create the right impression.
Ready for that? Let's dive in!
How to Dress for Your Workplace To Get Over Imposter Syndrome
Fashion is about standing out, but it's also about straddling the line between avant-garde and everyday dress codes.
This doesn't apply as much in leisure time, but when it comes to dressing for work, it's a rule.
Over-dressing for the office can be just as bad as under-dressing (hi there, tech employees), so it's important to understand the dress codes before changing your style.
What do the office "cool" leaders wear?
Who gets the most compliments on their style (if anyone), how does it reflect their reputation, and what do you like about their ensembles and people's perceptions?
Consider where you're working, even down to the neighborhood. The style and aesthetics of one city can vary regionally, so pay attention.
You can draw inspiration from any and everywhere, but start with what you see every day.
Using Style To Boost Your Confidence and Get Over Imposter Syndrome
So, you're feeling like a fish out of water in a new job or a new environment... what can fashion do to help?
Surprisingly, a lot!
Personal style can be a powerful tool in fitting in and building up your ambitions.
They say to "dress for the job you want."
Here at LGY, we are huge supporters of that sentiment.
The feeling you get when you slip on a dress that fits you perfectly, or those pants that hug you in all the right places, is like lightning in a bottle.
Capturing that lightning and channeling it can be super powerful in your career and your life.
How Style Helps You Find A Sense of Self and Identity
Finding your look is about more than showing off. Knowing what you like and don't like sets the foundation for knowing who you are!
The more firmly grounded you are in your sense of style, the more self-assurance you'll have, which is the basis of any good career.
If you believe in yourself, other people will too. Whether on a date, at a party, PTA, or a boardroom.
There will always be naysayers, but your style is deeply personal. Even while at work, it can reflect your true essence, within the parameters of office dress codes (obviously).
It's important to dress appropriately for different settings, but don't be afraid to show your personality or tastes. Uniqueness is a form of confidence.
There's nothing more alluring than a person who knows themselves. Harvard said so!
"Ok stylist, this all sounds great in theory, but can you show me examples?"
East-Coast Business Casual Outfits
Say you're dressing for a corporate office. This is a step up from your last job, which was more casual. You're so excited for your first day, but you have no idea what to wear...eek!
Both of these looks are professional and business-friendly, but still have a unique flair.
(ie: the asymmetrical trouser buttons, and the model's pleated skirt)
West-Coast Smart Casual Outfits
Say you've just moved to California and you're starting your job at the trendy new startup in Santa Monica tomorrow. You have no idea what LA people wear... do they bring surfboards everywhere or what?
This is a great example of dressing for your style and the environment you're in. California tends to have a more laissez-faire sensibility, with warmer temperatures and more color.
