As an entrepreneur, the way you dress is going to send a message about the work you do, no matter what your true style is. Think Steve Jobs’ black turtleneck - this became his signature style! This style has become the face of tech companies, and many entrepreneurs have followed his lead. You can apply the same idea to your own brand identity and fashion.
What you wear will invoke an image of how people think about your business.
Here are some things to keep in mind as an entrepreneur as it relates to style.
Your Branding Should Match the Image of Your Company
This ties into the above. Your branding should align with the personal impression and style you have decided to go for. Meaning, what colors have you incorporated for your business? Are you creating a formal look, or more minimal casual? This should directly translate into the overall color scheme and tone of your logo, fonts, website design and layout.
When these all align, the better your customers are going to get an overall idea of your vision and business. This will allow an easy to remember brand image that will create more impact.
Bring Some Authenticity
Michelle Obama brought an authenticity in her professional and personal style that was relatable, wearing JCrew many times in the public eye. She carried her style throughout both the presidencies and her own projects wearing approachable brands exuding classic styles with a twist - creating a relatable and authentic image. This is just an example of how important it is to have strong personal branding and style as an entrepreneur that is true to your own brand and personality.
Dress for Each Situation
Having a template for your professional life is good, it makes getting dressed easy! But, if you have an important dinner with your investors and your style is minimal - add some elements that bring it up a notch to look the part. So, wear that black blazer and pants you love, but add a pair of black heels and gold statement earrings.
You don’t need to stray from your style in these instances, but you may need to get out of your comfort zone and change it up here and there for the best results.
Be Professional But Be Comfortable
Feeling comfortable is so important and part of being professional! Any scientific study will tell you you do your best work when you are comfortable. So, don’t wear anything that makes you feel unlike you or that you are in a body that doesn't just quite belong to you. Ultimately, wearing comfortable items that reflect who you are will also bring you confidence.
Enhance and Invest in Your Professional Wardrobe
Investing in a few classic pieces like a few blazers or a classic quality leather bag will add polish and personality to your look. These pieces can seamlessly work into the rest of your wardrobe making your personal style a sophisticated extension of your professional image.
Opt for Classic Over Trendy
While it's tempting to wear something that is fashion forward, remember that your branding portraits are an investment meant to stand the test of time. Choose classic pieces that won't date your photos a year from now. Think tailored blazers, elegant blouses, and simple, clean lines. A well-fitted suit or a timeless dress can convey professionalism, confidence, and sophistication.
Embrace Color Wisely
Color can be a powerful tool in conveying your branding and creating emotion. Choose colors that complement your skin tone and align with your brand's color palette. Bold colors can make your portraits stand out, but make sure they don't overpower you. If your brand image and palette is more subdued, consider softer, neutral tones that align.
Pay Attention to Detail
Details can make all of the difference! . Accessories can add that finishing touch to your look, but they shouldn't distract from you and what is being photographed. Choose simple, elegant pieces that enhance your outfit without causing a visual commotion.
Bring Options
Bring a few outfit options to your session. Having alternatives allows for flexibility and the opportunity to switch up your look for different needs (think website vs an instagram post). It also gives you the chance to collaborate with your photographer and choose the best outfit that captures your brand's vision and your personal style.
Talk to a Stylist
If you are feeling stuck on what to wear, explore talking to a professional stylist to find out what they think about how you can represent your brand.
You can let them know what you gravitate towards - the colors and styles you are a fan of and how you envision your brand overall. Personal stylists can help you narrow in on the style you need to go for and help put together looks that align for your brand photoshoot.
Candee Clauson is a fashion stylist that is local to Minneapolis, MN as well as our branding stylist here at De Moi! Check out her work at https://styledbycandee.com/ or read her bio on our "Meet the Team" page.
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