Power Suit
How to update your wardrobe, indeed! Is it even necessary, you ask. The answer depends on what you wish to accomplish and what you have in your closet right now.
There are three things to keep in mind when deciding to update your wardrobe. First, do you need to be more effective at work and play? Second, do you have items that are appropriate? And third, do you know what will help you achieve your goals?
Probably the easiest question to answer is the first. Most people would agree that they’d like to be more effective at work. Wardrobe choices can certainly help here. Our research demonstrates that the color of your raincoat, the cut of your hair, and the style of your shoes are all important factors that can help or hurt your image.
Knowing whether you have the right items in your closet, and understanding which suits, hairstyles, and accessories are best really are questions that only research can help you decide. We’ve been conducting this kind of wardrobe research for professionals and it clearly shows that some items are more appropriate and effective than others. For instance, a black raincoat is less effective than beige. Cap-toe shoes are more effective than slip ons for men. Pumps are better for women than flats.
When you decide to update your wardrobe you might want to contact a professional who has access to research about what is effective. Forget the latest trends and colors. Forget designer names. Forget your beauty magazines. For a moment ask yourself, “What evidence do I have that this or that item will enhance my image in relation to others, make people trust me, and make them predisposed to like me?” When you begin to think like this you are on the right track and updating your wardrobe will be much easier than you can imagine.
