In today’s ultra competitive job market, underestimating the power of your professional image is not an option. While career success undeniably rests on education, skills, and work ethic, your appearance accounts for 75% of first impressions and can significantly influence your reputation – even when you’re not in the room. To help you harness the power of your professional image, here are 5 professional style resolutions for the new year! (I learned how to do this early on in my career – which is why I’m here to teach you the same, with actionable steps!) Journey to the past with me, if you will…
Six months after I graduated from college, I was hand-picked for an international design team with the fashion label I worked for in San Francisco. While my work ethic and performance did earn me the opportunity, I was also told by the executive team in no uncertain terms that part of the reason I won out over other candidates was because I “looked the part!” As a young girl just starting out… I can’t overstate the impression this made on me. It informed the way I showed up in the office for years to come!
Another defining memory comes from many years later: on my first day as an executive department store buyer. That morning, an elegant, powerful, and poised woman stepped into an otherwise empty elevator with me… and her presence made an impact. She wore a sharp gray pinstripe suit, paired with a coordinating leather bag and classic black pumps. Her tailored suit was flawless, her makeup natural yet elevated, and her hair perfectly styled. I remember thinking, “Wow, she has got to be somebody.” And she was, my friend. She was my new Senior VP! Talk about having something to aspire to!
How we present ourselves in our professional and personal lives MATTER! As we kick off 2025, I want you to consider these 5 Style Resolutions to help you refine your professional brand. It’s integral to achieving all of the success you desire! Ready to get started?
The Power Of Your Professional Image: 5 Professional Style Resolutions For The New Year
1. Commit To Making An Effort Every Single Day
Make it a priority to show up looking the part every single day of the work week, Monday through Friday. Even if your work is primarily remote, don’t hesitate to dress for success, at least from the waist up – no matter your dress code. If your motivation is waning, throw on a pair of earrings and a simple face of makeup at the very least! (I guarantee you’ll want to complete the look once you do those two things.)
2. Embrace Your Current Body
Give yourself grace and accept your body as it is now. While many of us have New Year’s resolutions to shed a few pounds (myself included!), that doesn’t mean we can pass up an opportunity to look fabulous! As someone who’s been every size between a 20 and a 6 (currently a 12/14), I know this truth firsthand: confidence and knowledge of how to dress your body make all the difference. The right fabrics, colors, and details can help you command attention and leave a lasting impression, no matter your size!
3. Cultivate An Authentic Presence
Having an authentic presence doesn’t mean sacrificing your comfort. When it’s time to level up as a leader, start by analyzing whether you’re showing up as YOU! Learn what to shop for and embrace clothing that reflects who you really are. You’ll elevate your confidence without even trying. You’re the only one who brings what you bring to the table. So start dressing like it!
4. Plan Ahead!
With packed schedules full of meetings, conferences, and family commitments, staying stylish can feel overwhelming. Reduce stress by planning your outfits in advance. (Personally, I plan my wardrobe weekly to ensure I’m prepared for whatever comes my way. You can download my Weekly Wardrobe Planning Worksheet here to help streamline your process!)
5. Think Ahead: Spring 2025 Is Coming!
Yes, there is snow on the ground here in DC, but retailers will begin transitioning to spring collections in early February. (I know, right!?) If you have special events on the horizon, start planning now. In my expert opinion, spring assortments are typically stronger than summer ones. By shopping early, you’ll avoid the last-minute rush and be perfectly prepared, pinky up while sipping your tea as everyone else scrambles for the good picks! (Need help curating the perfect look for upcoming events? Let me help you knock it out of the park!)
Final Thoughts
Your professional image is a cornerstone of your personal brand. When you adopt these resolutions, you’ll project confidence, authenticity, and a strong presence in every aspect of your life. Not just your professional life! Let 2025 be the year you elevate not only your style but also the way you show up for yourself and the world. After all, looking the part is about more than clothing—it’s about embodying the powerful, polished professional you are! Let’s level up how you show up!
FOLLOW ME ON
