Two events I’m going to be hosting for International Women’s Month are the Dress for Success Greater London Power of Women Awards and the Panel Discussion. I am a patron of DFSGL because I WHOLEHEARTEDLY support their cause.
The way we dress is important.
Dress for Success Greater London is a registered charity that empowers women into the workplace from positions of disadvantage by providing professional clothing and styling, interview coaching and ongoing support once they re-join the workplace.
Perhaps maternity leave had to be extended, maybe there’s emotional issues, it could even be loss of confidence.
As well as providing clothing, handbags, shoes, jewellery etc. the charity provides additional skills along the lines of mentoring and coaching and assists women getting back into the workplace. For details on the Charity and the London events go to DressforSuccess.org where you can also see the global work the charity undertakes.
Being asked to speak at these events got me thinking… what does it mean to dress for success??
Dress the message.
Whether you like it or not, the clothes you wear will change the way other people hear what you say. It will subconsciously tell them if you’re like them or if you’re different. It will determine whether they listen or ignore. Trust or distrust.
Whether it’s for a job or in your personal life, the way you dress and present yourself will play a major role. You don’t have to like it, but remember: those who are successful are not those who holla about how unfair life is… they’re the ones who do what they need to do, so they can create ways to change the rules.
The way you present yourself says everything about you. It’s not so much about fashion but what you are saying unconsciously through your clothing choices. It’s like being an actor… if they wear the right costume they even move and speak differently. The same can be said for your choices in attire for everyday life.
Dressing smart, and casually smart in the right setting, is also important for your confidence and sense of self-esteem. But your style does more than just send messages, it’s a window into you. What are you sharing with the world by what you wear?
This is why I absolutely adore Dress For Success. It helps women present their true selves during times when they need some help. Women helping women, to be the best they can be. I’ll be sure to keep you updated as this afternoon I’ll be attending the #PowerOfWomenAwards.
Do you feel better when you dress better? Has the way you’ve dressed ever impacted your life? I’d love to hear what you think…
