Be Authentically Classy in Your Style
This week, I've been reflecting on authenticity. Check out some of the cool science behind being authentic in your interactions and how you present yourself in the world.
Be Authentically Classy in Your Style
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Tatyana Wilson, MA, EDS, SHRM-CP helps people make great impressions with science-backed approaches and a carefully curated wardrobe of biologically correct colors, good tailoring, and elevated accessories. She writes at www.lightlovescolor.com.
With the recent government reorganizations and the seismic shifts that come with changing work environments, are you taking the time to reflect on how you present yourself to the world?
Whether you're returning to the office, transitioning to a new role, or simply reevaluating your personal brand, there’s one thing that remains true: authenticity is key. In a world where perceptions are made in mere seconds, your style—how you dress, how you carry yourself, and how others perceive your personal brand—has a significant role in your success, happiness, and influence.
This is a great time for introspection, a moment to reflect on who you truly are and how your outer appearance matches your inner self. Is your style truly authentic to you, or is it a reflection of societal expectations? Let’s explore how aligning your authentic self with a classy, well-curated wardrobe can empower you in both your personal and professional life.
The Power of Authenticity and the Impact of Style
We’ve all heard the saying, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have,” but how often do we stop to think about why this works? The reality is that how we dress can help us communicate authenticity or expose a lack thereof. Research has shown that the human eye is incredibly sensitive to incongruities in appearance. If our outward appearance doesn’t align with our true selves, a subconscious disconnect can form between how we’re perceived and how we feel on the inside.
This week, I’ve been reading Vanessa Van Edwards' book Cues: Master the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication. She reminds us that humans are naturally attuned to micro-cues, those subtle signs that communicate truth or deception. If your body language, clothing choices, or general demeanor contradict your words or actions, people notice. In fact, our brains are wired to detect incongruence, which can breed mistrust and doubt. Van Edwards argues that these cues—especially the ones we send through our clothing—can either build trust or break it. And trust is critical, both in personal and professional settings.
Why Authenticity in Style is So Important:
Being authentic to your personal style doesn’t just make you feel confident—it also impacts how others perceive you. When your style feels true to who you are, you are naturally more likable, confident, and authentic, which can lead to a greater sense of connection and trust in both work and personal life. Here are some of the major benefits of aligning your style with your true self:
Personal Connection: When your style reflects your true self, it helps others connect with you on a deeper level. They can sense that you’re being genuine, and this leads to more authentic relationships.
Professional Success: Studies have shown that people who dress with authenticity are often perceived as more competent, confident, and capable. Your clothes should reflect the role you want to have and the responsibility you want to take on.
Increased Confidence: Authenticity and confidence go hand in hand. When you feel aligned with your clothing choices, you naturally exude self-assurance that others can pick up on. Confidence is contagious, and it invites opportunities.
Less Mental Clutter: When your wardrobe feels truly authentic, you don’t waste time second-guessing your outfit or wondering if you look “right.” You already know you’re being true to yourself, which frees up mental energy for the things that matter most.
The Science Behind Authenticity and Style:
There’s a reason why dressing authentically matters. Research consistently shows that our outward appearance impacts how we feel on the inside, and vice versa. For instance, a study from the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology found that people who dressed in clothing they felt represented their personality felt more competent, focused, and capable. On the other hand, when someone wore clothes they didn’t feel aligned with, they reported feeling less confident and less capable.
I’ve talked about this psychological phenomenon, “enclothed cognition,” plenty of times. It’s a term coined by researchers at Northwestern University and refers to the effect that clothing can have on the wearer’s mental state, influencing their own self-esteem, performance, and overall sense of self. If you want to project confidence, success, and authority, it’s essential to align your wardrobe with these internal goals.
See Below: 6 Tips for Achieving an Authentic, Classy Style
Dressing for Authenticity in an Ever-Changing World
In changing, uncertain times, when many of us are facing shifts in the workforce and navigating major societal changes, there has never been a better time to reflect on our style and the authenticity it conveys. As you step into this next chapter—whether you’re reentering the office, stepping into a new role, or transitioning into something entirely different—use your personal style as a tool for empowerment. Dress for the person you truly want to show up as in the world, both at work and in your personal life.
This is the time to embrace an authentic, classy style that not only makes you feel good but communicates who you are with confidence and clarity. When your insides and outsides align, you will undoubtedly be ready to tackle anything that comes your way.
Listen to our friendly Podcast hosts chat about this article courtesy of NotebookLM by Google.
“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we're supposed to be and embracing who we are."
- Brené Brown
6 Tips for Achieving an Authentic, Classy Style:
Now that we know the importance of authenticity, let’s look at how to achieve that balance of classy style and personal authenticity:
Know Your Color Palette 🌈: Wear colors that complement your skin tone and enhance your natural beauty. A good color palette can make your face look more luminous, vibrant, and healthy.
Embrace Tailoring ✂️: Fit is everything. Clothes that fit properly—not too tight or too loose—make you look more polished and intentional. It shows you care about how you present yourself.
Incorporate Timeless Pieces ⏳: A well-tailored blazer, classic trousers, and a quality leather bag never go out of style. These are the foundation of a classy, versatile wardrobe that lasts.
Focus on Function and Form 🎯: Dress for the role you want, not just the job you have. Your wardrobe should empower you to tackle challenges head-on, both in your career and your personal life.
Add a Touch of Personality 💎: Accessories like scarves, statement jewelry, or a bold lipstick can show off your personality while keeping your overall look chic and sophisticated.
Be Mindful of Your Body Language 🙆♀️: The way you carry yourself is just as important as what you wear. Stand tall, make eye contact, and project confidence to align your body language with your authentic self.
Download my FREE resources for men and women to jumpstart your journey to dressing for success! 📩
Until next time, dress well, my friend!
~Tatyana