What are you wearing - right now?

For a while now, I’ve been saying that INTRODUCING YOURSELF is the most direct way to positively reinforce your personal brand.

I just realized that HOW YOU DRESS may be at least as important!

Here are some actionable tips to help you reinforce your personal brand through your clothing choices.

Integrating Your Personal Brand Into Your Workwear

Do you have a signature accessory?
A signature style?
A signature colour?

For me, it’s turquoise. I love turquoise. It’s no accident that Talk About Talk branding (including the podcast cover art) is turquoise!

In fact, turquoise is such a signature colour for me that sometimes colleagues will make comments to me when I’m NOT wearing turquoise!

No such thing as too much turquoise!

But colour isn’t the only way to communicate your Personal Brand. It could be an accessory, like silk scarves or flashy neckties or gorgeous shoes. Or maybe it’s a signature outfit, like Steve Jobs and his black turtleneck.

Are you feeling inspired?

If you’re wondering exactly HOW to integrate your Personal Brand into what you wear to work, here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Start with something you love. This could be a colour, accessory, or outfit.
Ask yourself what someone with your expertise, ambitions, and values would do with that.
Make it part of your identity and what people remember about you.
Match your clothing to your personality.

What NOT To Wear

Based on my research, here are some clothing DON’TS:

1️⃣ Don’t violate the DRESS CODE

Your office’s dress code may be formalized in writing, or implicitly understood. When in doubt, look to successful senior members of your team for guidance and inspiration.
Be aware of seasonal dress codes. It can be easy to get too casual in the summer. When in doubt, err on the side of formality.

2️⃣ Don’t wear anything DIRTY or RIPPED

Never wear dirty or stained clothes to work.
Avoid torn or frayed clothing. Save your trendy ripped jeans for after work.

Oleg Troino’s Images via Canva

3️⃣ Don’t wear FRAGRANCES

Scent allergies are very real!
You never know how your perfume or cologne will affect those around you, so save those for your day off.

4️⃣ Don’t wear anything TOO REVEALING

No short shorts, no miniskirts, and no bare midriffs! (No matter how proud you are of your rock-hard abs!)
Short sleeves and sleeveless shirts may be acceptable in the summertime. If you’re unsure, check your firm’s dress code, or ask your supervisor.

Andrey Popov via Canva

5️⃣ Don’t forget about FOOTWEAR

There’s a lot more leeway when it comes to shoes. In many offices, it’s not uncommon to see sneakers worn with business suits or dresses. (Just make sure they’re clean!)
NEVER wear flip-flops and Crocs. Save those for the beach or the garden.
Open-toed pumps or sandals may be acceptable in some workplaces, especially in the summer. But if you’re not sure, my advice is to cover your feet.