Have you ever walked into a room and felt like you didn’t belong? Maybe you just landed your dream job but feel like a fraud. Maybe you're convinced that everyone else knows what they’re doing except you. That’s imposter syndrome, and it affects even the most successful people including those in the fashion industry.
What if the way you dress could help shift your mindset? Research suggests that what we wear impacts not just how others perceive us but also how we perceive ourselves. Fashion can be more than just self-expression; it is a way for building confidence and reclaiming your space.
Clothing affects our mindset. It's backed by science. Enclothed cognition suggests that the clothes we wear can influence our confidence and behavior.
A study that was conducted talked about participants who wore a white lab coat which is normally associated with doctors performing better on attention-related tasks than those who did not. The same idea applies to fashion when you wear something that makes you feel powerful, you start to embody that power.
A clear example of people using clothing to show confidence is Steve Jobs. Think about how he wore a black turtleneck. It wasn't just about trying to be simple, it was creating his personal brand. Black symbolizes having control and sophistication. Dressing formally can help you boost confidence levels.
Not just normal people have imposter syndrome, Gigi Hadid got candid in an interview and talked about how she also struggles with imposter syndrome. At a Vogue even she talked about how she has self-doubt even though it doesn't seem like it. However, she proves that having imposter syndrome does not define yourself worth. She stressed to stay true to yourself.
Here are 5 tips to help boost your confidence and silence your style self-doubt.
- Power outfit- always have a go-to look that you feel unstoppable in.
- Color is your friend- use colors that help enhance your mood and confidence. Like red, white or navy.
- Invest- Tailor pieces if you need to, clothes that fit well make you look and feel way more put together.
- Accessorize- a signature statement piece can serve as a confidence boost when you're having self-doubt. Like a necklace, handbag or sunglasses.
- Fake it until you make it- if you are doubting yourself, wear what makes you feel the best and your brain will catch up.