Confidence and fashion go hand in hand. Many people assume that only confident individuals are able to wear certain styles, but this isn’t true. In a lot of cases, it’s the style that gives the person the confidence – not the other way around.
The Connection Between Fashion and Confidence
There’s a concept in psychology that researchers call “enclothed cognition.” This hypothesis, which is now backed by research, suggests our clothing choices impact how we feel.
As stylist Tonya Leigh writes, “Enclothed cognition is a psychological phenomenon: it is the effects of clothing on your mental and emotional processes. Clothing can change how you think, feel, perceive, and understand yourself during situations and experiences.”
Enclothed cognition says that a chunky, comfortable sweatshirt can make you feel lazy; a pair of brand new workout clothes can make you feel energetic and fit; and a well-tailored suit can make you feel successful.
Using the concept of enclothed cognition, we can begin to understand the connection between what we wear and how confident we feel. And in many cases, it has nothing to do with how others see us – it’s simply our own self-perception.
Underwear is a great example. A woman who wears a brand new matching panty and bra set feels more sexy and confident in herself throughout the day than someone wearing old, mismatched undergarments.
If you want to feel more confident in yourself throughout the day, you should create a more intentional wardrobe that’s full of things you feel great wearing.
4 Ways to Choose a Wardrobe That Invokes Confidence
As you build the proper wardrobe for instilling confidence, here are several things we’d encourage you to think about:
- Think in Terms of Power
You’ve probably heard the term “power suit” used to describe the outfit a business professional chooses to wear before a big meeting. And while it might seem like a simple buzzword, there’s actually something to it. High-quality, properly-fitting clothing can make you feel more powerful.
“Not everyone’s version of the power suit is the same,” White House Black Market explains. “Yours might be a simple black sheath dress with a well-tailored blazer, or it could be a leather skirt paired with a great pair of boots. Whatever your preference, remember that a good fit is the key. You won’t feel confident if your sleeves are too long or your waistband is cutting your torso in two.”
When it comes to selecting clothing that makes you feel confident, think in terms of power. What makes you feel the most powerful when you walk into a room? Your answer is going to be different than the next person’s answer – and that’s okay!
- Choose the Right Footwear
Most people are focused on clothing, but don’t underestimate the importance of having the right footwear. Your shoes can make or break your confidence.
No aspect of your outfit impacts how you feel more than your footwear. If it’s tight, uncomfortable, or poor-fitting, you’ll be uncomfortable. But if your shoes fit like a glove, you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds.
The key is to have the right footwear for every occasion. Find a brand you like and stick with it. Leather shoes, like those from Patina, are very versatile. Whether it’s boots or loafers, the options are endless.
- Wear Colors You Like
Don’t get caught up in the hot color of the season. And don’t worry about what runway models claim is the new optimal shade of white. Just wear colors that you like! You’ll feel more authentic and true to yourself. The goal isn’t to please other people. The objective is to wear things that you’re comfortable in so that you see yourself in the best light possible.
- Invest in Statement Jewelry
You don’t need a wardrobe full of glitz and glam to be confident in yourself. For most people, the best option is to wear comfortable clothing that compliments your body shape. Then you can throw on a piece of statement jewelry – like a necklace or watch – and you’ll look great.
Adding it All Up
What makes you feel comfortable and confident is different from what will make the next person feel comfortable and confident. It’s up to you to determine what that is – good luck!