Workplace Style

Fashioning first impressions

They say that clothes maketh the man, and never has that been truer than in the world of business for any gender. Numerous studies show that dressing well not only improves your chances of securing a job but can also positively impact your salary, promotion opportunities, and overall professional perception.

It makes sense. Humans are visual creatures, and first impressions are formed within seconds. While we like to think we judge people based on their values, intelligence, or capability, the reality is we often assess someone long before they speak—based on what they’re wearing.

How often have you told yourself not to judge someone by their appearance—and how often have you succeeded?

Whether we like it or not, the way you present yourself matters. It sends an immediate message about who you are, what you value, and where you’re headed. That’s not to say you need to dress like a Fortune 500 CEO every day, but there is an art to finding a balance between practicality, professionalism, and personality.

Dressing for corporate success

Let’s get one thing straight—people who succeed in business do so in a wide variety of styles. There’s no single “uniform” for success.

But in traditional corporate environments, a polished appearance still carries weight. While Steve Jobs famously favoured black turtlenecks and jeans, and today’s start-up culture often celebrates casual wear, in many professional settings, being well-dressed continues to be a silent yet powerful indicator of credibility and status.

It’s not about wearing expensive clothes; it’s about presenting yourself in a way that aligns with your goals and the expectations of your environment. Someone who is neatly dressed, well-groomed, and intentional about their appearance is more likely to be seen as focused, competent, and ready for leadership.

Dressing according to a few simple guidelines can help you project a confident, self-respecting image—one that communicates: “I understand the environment I’m in, I care about making a good impression, and I’m someone who shows up with purpose.”

Dressing for practicality and comfort

Dressing appropriately for the setting you’re in is a sign of emotional intelligence and professionalism.

If you’re attending a formal event or meeting, dressing accordingly shows that you value the occasion, the people attending, and your own presence there. It sends the message that you’re respectful, observant, and prepared.

In contrast, if you’re in a more casual or hands-on setting, relaxed attire can be just as powerful—it shows that you’re approachable, ready to engage, and not placing yourself above others. It’s a subtle way of demonstrating flexibility and humility, two qualities that are highly valued in leadership and collaboration.

Comfort is also key. Clothes that fit well and allow you to move confidently can have a noticeable impact on your energy and performance throughout the day.

Dressing for individuality

Clothing isn’t just about blending in—it’s also about standing out in the right way. In today’s increasingly creative and diverse work culture, personal style can be a great asset.

A bold accessory, a pop of colour, or a unique silhouette can act as a visual representation of your creativity, confidence, and out-of-the-box thinking. People naturally associate an intentional sense of style with innovation and authenticity—qualities that are prized in modern business environments.

Let your clothing reflect who you are. Whether it’s minimalist and sleek, vibrant and expressive, or somewhere in between, style is a form of personal branding. It tells your story before you even speak.

Be a visually commanding presence

According to Forbes, dressing just 25% better than those around you can give you a significant professional edge. It communicates discipline, self-respect, and attention to detail—all traits that employers and clients value.

It takes effort to ensure your clothes are pressed, your shoes are clean, your grooming is on point, and your outfit is thoughtfully chosen. But that effort doesn’t go unnoticed. When you present yourself as someone who takes pride in their appearance, you also signal that you’re likely to take pride in your work.

It’s not about being flashy—it’s about being polished. Small, consistent choices in your appearance add up and can shape how you’re perceived over time.

Did you know?

Dressing well doesn’t just change how others see you—it can actually influence how you think.

A study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that clothing impacts our cognition in significant ways. Participants who wore more formal attire were more likely to engage in abstract, big-picture thinking—a key skill in strategic planning and leadership.

The research concluded that formal dress enhances what's known as “global processing”—our ability to see the broader context of a situation. It also linked formal attire to an increased sense of power, which in turn influenced how participants processed information and made decisions.

In short, the clothes you wear don’t just affect your image—they affect your mindset. Dressing for success could very well mean thinking more like a leader, acting with greater confidence, and making stronger, more thoughtful choices.

You don’t need to overhaul your wardrobe or follow rigid fashion rules to be successful. But by dressing with intention—balancing practicality, individuality, and professionalism—you can elevate both how you’re perceived and how you show up in the world of business.