5 Keys to a Leadership Look for Women

If you want to succeed in the business world there is pressure to stand out, stand apart and lead. While a woman’s skill, education and demeanor can help pave the way to leadership or success, her appearance and attire can be what sets her apart and make that great first impression.

On your way to the top, there is an aspect that needs to be addressed. We all know that brilliant scientist or techie type that seem to have no awareness of personal appearance or hygiene, but still seems to be making her mark in her part of the business world. For the rest of the 98% of business professionals, you appearance cannot be overlooked. You need to play by the rules and dress your professional best.

 Pants

Currently, all lengths of hems and pant leg widths are available in the stores. For a universally flattering fit, choose a straight leg, full length suit pant. Make sure to have a moderate break on the pant leg. A break is the drape of the fabric on the front of the pant above the shoe. Too much bunching of fabric at the bottom makes you look lazy and untidy. It can make a petite woman look even shorter. An updated length of dress pant is a slight break at the top of the shoe. It is a clean, lean and updated silhouette.

Choose a suit in a neutral dark color. Navy, charcoal, black or brown makes the best first impression. Dark colors convey power, sophistication, authority and trust.    

Attention to detail

Having great fitting clothes is the first step, but attention to the fine details of clothing maintenance is another key to a leadership look for women.  Dress shirts, dress pants and khakis should always be dry cleaned or well-ironed.  Having a sharp, smooth look says you are aware of the fine details of your attire and other areas of your business life. As pant hems and shirt collars start to fray, replace them.  Replace missing buttons immediately. If stains cannot be removed, replace the item in question. Watch for snags and pilling on sweaters. Sometimes the sweater can be saved if the snag can be pulled to the inside. Use an old razor to shave the fiber pills off of your sweaters. Business suits should be steamed on a regular basis. Shoes should always be polished. Watch for run down heels. They can be replaced if the top of the shoe is still in good condition. With good maintenance, your dress shoes can last you for years. I recommend always storing them in plastic shoe boxes to keep them from getting dusty or scuffed in the closet.

 Good Hygiene

Good hygiene is a very important key for a leadership look for women. Your hairstyle should enhance your face. If possible wear your hair back-you will be taken more seriously. It’s important to be clean smelling, but do not allow your perfume to be overpowering.

Everyone loves a leader with a sincere and confident smile. Brush and floss daily. Maintain fresh breath. Straighten teeth that are crooked. Whiten teeth on a regular basis. White teeth will make you look younger.

A business leader’s fingernails should be clean and trimmed. NEVER bite your fingernails or cuticles, it’s an ugly habit and everyone can see the results. No one looks confident with their fingers in their mouth. If you choose to paint your nails, wear a subdued, neutral fingernail polish color.

Outwear and Bags

Outwear and bags are your first impression. In a business environment, your outerwear can be a trench coat, leather jacket or wool dress coat. Your overcoat should be well-fitted, free of stains and well maintained. A sloppy, oversized, worn-out coat presents a very poor first impression. Maintain your daily workbag. It should be free from scuffs, stains and tears. All of the hardware should be fully functional. Unless your company mandates that you use the company issued, logo emblazoned nylon computer bag, I always recommend a leather bag with an outer zipper if possible. Your stored items are less likely to fall out on the plane or car if the bag is tipped. Backpacks should not be worn to a job interview or used in a business environment.

Distinctive Accessories

Distinctive accessories can set you apart and be the final touch to a leadership look for women. Wear tasteful, classic jewelry. A scarf can add a splash of color, finish a classic all-business suit look, or show your cutting edge fashion sense. A fine dress watch is a must-have in your daily work wardrobe. Finally, distinctive eyewear with clean nose pads (if applicable) can really set a woman apart from the rest. Have your eyewear replaced every year. Keep them polished and have them adjusted regularly to set straight on your face. A cock-eyed pair of eyeglasses can be distracting to you and others around you.