Did you know that executive presence makes up 26% of what it takes to get you promoted? Leaders who have mastered this attribute have cultivated and maintained a unique style that is all their own. They understand that you not only command the room with your skill set, but your confidence and your appearance as well.
Commanding the room with your appearance is the easiest part of the three that will enable you to carry your other two attributes - your skill set and confidence – more easily.
With that said, I have 4 easy ways to help you enhance your personal brand and executive presence with style, so that you can continue leveling up in your career like that boss that you are.
1. Know your sizes
Take your measurements often and cleanse your wardrobe of clothes that no longer fit you, every quarter. The weather changes every quarter and when that happens, you'll want to prepare your closet with items that best align with the current season.
If you're anything like me, then your closet is compact and can only fit a certain amount of clothes. This isn't all bad though. The lack of space forces you to get rid of items that no longer suit your body, lifestyle and personality.
Here are the measurements you'll want to keep track of every few months:
Bust measurement: Measure the fullest part of your bust
High hip measurement: Measure around the widest part of your hips (including your butt)
Natural waist measurement: Measure around the smallest part of your waist (between your bottom ribs and your hip bones)
2. Choose the proper styles
Now that you're confident in your sizes, you'll be able to find the proper styles of clothing that best fit your body and align with your shape.
I created my own unique body shapes that are a lot more body positive and enticing for women of all shapes and sizes. Take a look at the body shapes below and let me know which shape you think you are.
3. Play with color
Incorporate color and prints into your wardrobe! Don't be afraid to play around with colors that make you feel powerful. Black is such a traditional color and can be considered very formal. But learn to step out of your comfort zone and start wearing colors that reflect your fun and inviting personality.
People don't just notice when you're wearing more color, but they also notice when you're wearing the same boring attire and hiding behind your clothes too. Your skills matter, but don’t get lost in the crowd, having a nonchalant appearance. Your appearance is important and will help to get you the right type of attention.
4. Define your style uniform
What is your go-to outfit that keeps you looking and feeling your absolute best? You may already have one and didn't even realize it.
Your style uniform is as simple as the pieces that make up your entire look. Knowing your style uniform will save you time when getting dressed everyday and even make shopping easier for you. When you have a clear style uniform, you'll know what to shop for and what not to shop for.
The first step to enhancing your personal brand and executive presence with style is realizing your infinite potential. The next is making a conscious decision to get yourself looking and feeling like the best, most confident, version of you. And now that you know these 4 simple steps, you'll know exactly how!
Do you feel like you have a closet full of clothes that don’t really “speak” to you? You’re just getting dressed out of habit, not inspiration? Do you need help with determining your body shape and the best styles that flatter your figure? Do you find that when you try to rejuvenate your wardrobe you feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start? Well, here is your invitation to take the next step.
Learn how to dress your unique body shape with "The Body Shape Bible".