What Your Clothes Say About You

As much as spring is a time for renewal, it is also often a prompt to hit the mall for some new looks.

The phrase "clothes make the man" is not an unfamiliar one, but what do the colors and clothes we wear actually communicate to others? Did you ever wonder how much of the likability of a person is determined based on their appearance? More than you think. Interviews are not the only life events for which our wardrobe plays an important role. Pardon human shallowness but often wardrobe is the only way people can judge your personality, which in turn affects how they choose to react to you.

I've grouped some color psychology along with some wardrobe tips to help guide you in communicating the message you want depending on which of the following three situations you are in:

Looking Competent in Sales and Business 

To give off a professional image, extra care must be taken into how well the clothes fit, their cleanliness and lack of wrinkles (yes, that means ironing). Same goes for well-groomed hair and nails.

People tend to trust those with "fit" body types and subconsciously associate fitness with competency (1). Therefore, if you have a fit body it's good to wear clothes that outline the figure. For men, that means well-fitted suits. For ladies - fitted tops or dresses. Studies have shown that heavier eyeglass frames communicate intelligence within a business environment. (2)

A heavier eyeglass frame
communicates intelligence

The ultimate color of power is black (3). However, since it overpowers other colors too much of it can be seen as threatening. Blue is second most powerful as it communicates confidence, trust and authority (particularly in its darker shades). This is the reason why blue is one of the most popular colors used in logos. Another business option is deep purple because it communicates luxury and sophistication. This might be useful for salespeople to note when they would like to communicate status and trust.

A great tip for sales people is to wear some "status" symbols of success. For example, a nice watch or a designer bag. In business, the quality of clothes is important as it allows you to be more persuasive. When you have a high-quality looking wardrobe, people are more likely to perceive you as more successful in your field and place more trust into your ideas. 

Making Yourself Approachable - Networking

An accessory that stands out is
a conversation starter.

My favourite networking tip is to have a statement accessory. This makes it easier for someone to approach you and break the ice by commenting on the item. It could be a statement necklace, tie, a bright scarf, or a purse. Whatever it is, it should be something that not only complements your outfit but also catches the eye.

Making great first impressions is all about perception. For example, if someone asks you for your business card, don't look disheveled trying to check all of your pockets or trying to frantically dig for it through the black hole that is the over-cluttered bottom of your purse. Know where the things you need are. If you have a purse, make sure it doesn't prevent you from having a hand available for a handshake (presuming you are likely to have an appetizer or a drink in the other). 

In terms of color, light brown communicates that you are genuine. Brown is a cozy color that is welcoming and approachable. Hints of orange and yellow in an outfit could be helpful to draw attention. Although too much yellow can be intimidating, it can create a sense of warmth. Orange is considered an approachable color that communicates courage and generosity. Sometimes marketers use orange to make an expensive product seem more affordable.

Read Bad Body Language Habits for other networking behaviours to avoid

Less Awkward First Dates - Improving Likeability

Wear red. 

I was going to leave it at that, but some other popular colors are pink and lavender for femininity (this one is more for the girls). White could be used to highlight purity and peace, especially if you are a bit nervous. If the texture of the fabrics you wear is soft, it can invite human closeness.

Mimic the effect of dilated pupils
by wearing sunglasses on your head

It's a fact that dilated pupils naturally make a person seem more attractive to us. This effect can be mimicked by wearing sunglasses on the head. Having this extra set of "eyes" allows a person to be perceived as youthful and relaxed (2). This mimics the relaxing effect babies and stuffed animals with large painted pupils have on us. 

I will leave what to wear or not wear open-ended. It all depends on what you want your date to end with...

Read more about the Body Language of Attraction

Hope these tips help you refresh your look for spring. 

Happy D-coding,

Darya

Sources:

1. Dillard, James, Pfau, Michael"The Persuasion Handbook"; 2002

2. Pease, Allan and Barbara. The Definitive Book of Body Language. Bantam Dell, New York, New York. 2004
3. Expert Business Source. "Colors and How People React to Them" 2007.