I can hear it: “Don’t be so vain!’’ or “ It’s not about the clothes but your professional expertise!”

The little voices in our heads can be hard to silence. You feel guilty, like you're doing something "wrong" by spending money on yourself. You can’t possibly have a bit of fun and enjoy what you wear… after all, you could STAND OUT, right? And what would that say about you?

But here is the thing: We notice people who are well dressed. They look more professional and we assume they’ve got what it takes.

→ Studies have shown that people who dress well are perceived to be more competent and authoritative, which in turn builds greater trust and credibility.

So the decision to go for it and decide how to show up should be a strategic decision. One that helps you to get noticed, further your career and get taken more seriously.

I think a lot of us have grown up like this. To be frugal, to be quiet, not noisy. And wearing clothes that are loud and maybe even a bit more colourful and unusual, can feel empowering yet frightening - especially if you work in an environment where most colleagues wear similar, 'blending-in' attire.

Developing your own style can feel daunting, but deep down, we all know that clothes are so much more than just fabric hanging from our shoulders. We all have memories of wearing something that made us feel special, empowered, happy.

And ultimately, those clothes will make you act more confidently and give you the power to be seen and heard.

So, this is my advice to you now:

Life’s too short to blend in. It’s 2025 - time to bang your drum, step out of your comfort zone to show your true colours!

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