If you want to maximize your confidence levels, make sure you dress well. The clothing choices you make could have a significant impact on your overall success in both your career and your life in general.
The Relationship Between Appearances and Self-Confidence
Many studies, surveys, and research reports have highlighted the powerful relationship between clothing and self-confidence. Here are a couple of the most interesting findings:
- In a research paper published in Social Psychological and Personality Science, one group of individuals was asked to wear casual clothing and another formal clothing. Both groups then took IQ tests. Those who wore formal clothing performed significantly better on the tasks (particularly when it came to organizational and creative tasks).
- In a study published by the Journal of Experimental Psychology, individuals were asked to wear either formal or informal clothing prior to entering a negotiation meeting. As in the first study, the people who wore professional attire showed much more dominance in negotiations. Those garbed in casual clothing displayed much lower persuasive skills.
- In another scientific study, researchers found that the way we feel about ourselves as individuals is often directly linked to our physical appearance. When a person thinks he or she looks good, the individual typically displays greater confidence and will power.
The research findings are clear. In order to reach peak confidence levels, you should make an effort to look good. (Or, at the very least, this will help you to believe you look good.) And the good news is that it doesn’t take much to transform your appearance.
Simple Ways to Improve Your Look
Styles evolve, fads change, and the hot look of the season fades as quickly as it arrived. But if you want to look your best, the following timeless tips should be perennially helpful.
- Wear Clothing That Fits
You’d be amazed by how much better you’ll feel when you wear clothing that fits well. This is especially the case when it comes to professional attire like business suits. Spend the extra money and get a custom fit from a tailor. You’ll feel like a million bucks!
- Keep it Simple
Don’t overdo it. A simple outfit goes a long way. If you want to spice things up a bit, a nice watch or article of statement jewelry will do the trick. There’s no need to set the world on fire with the latest runway trends. Easy does it!
- Address Signs of Aging
Most of us have slight physical imperfections about which we feel self-conscious. You’d likely be surprised to know that most people don’t care one way or the other when they look at you; still, sometimes it’s helpful to address these “issues” proactively.
This is especially true with signs of aging – such as a balding scalp. If you’re one of the millions of Americans experiencing hair loss, try low-level laser therapy. All you need is a laser cap and 30 minutes of painless treatment every other day.
Within several months, you’ll notice most hair loss has ceased. And within eight or nine months, many users have reported significant hair growth.
- Better to Overdress
As a general rule, it’s always better to overdress than underdress. When you don’t know what the expected dress code will be for a work event, business meeting, wedding, or party, it’s always better to err on the side of overdressing.
As the research referenced above shows, you’re more likely to feel confident and empowered when you’re dressed well. (If, however, you show up underdressed, you’re apt to feel small.)
- When in Doubt, Wear This Color
There’s no need to fret over what color to wear. Whenever you’re in doubt, simply grab some black from your wardrobe and you’ll be all set. “Particularly in work environments, dark and black clothing is a great way to evoke a sense of power and authority,” confidence coach Ellen Hoggard writes.
“One study found that managers evaluate job applicants wearing black clothing as possessing more integrity and greater moral reputation. Managers or those in higher positions are also encouraged to wear black, as individuals wearing black clothing can have a greater influence on a group.”
Unless you have an openly flamboyant personality, neutral colors like black, white, or gray are typically best. They’re acceptable in almost any situation and help you feel as if you’ve blended in.
Give Your Self-Confidence a Boost
Confidence is malleable. Sometimes all it takes is one simple change to make you feel confident, strong, and empowered. Pick a couple of tips on this list and integrate them into your daily routine. You’ll be amazed by the results.