23. April 2026
Your clothes speak before you do
What we learnt in a workshop with Built By Her
Having a wardrobe that defines your career success sounds easy, but what I hear from women is the overwhelm of having too many clothes, often driven by them considering
- what everyone else is wearing
- what’s in fashion
- how celebrities or influencers dress
What is actually going to get you seen as credible is showing up as you. In your best possible light.
It’s true, we are instantly judged by potential clients on whether
- They can trust us.
- We are already successful.
- And are we taking this role seriously.
But how you dress also affects how you drive your business.
A woman who feels underdressed lowers her price. A woman who feels powerful speaks more confidently.
A client of mine, who was ready for a new career and social life after a year of caring for her mother, lived in casual. We created bespoke outfits and she felt confident to apply for a new role and get out there on the dating scene.
Your wardrobe should match your life ambitions, so what do you want your business to look like in 12 months? And do your clothes match that level yet?
So if you want to shape your wardrobe, here are some questions you could ask yourself
- what is my personality and what are my skills, and how should my wardrobe reflect this?
- How do my clothes fit me, am I making the most of my shape through my clothes?
- Which colours make me radiate?
Paula, a client of mine runs a successful marketing business, having to make lots of presentations. Whilst she loves colour, she often ended up wearing suits but didn’t quite feel comfortable. Turns out her body shape favoured a softer approach and so a shift in clothing style, whilst keeping her colours strong, allowed her to be herself and be more comfortable and confident.
Small changes that make a big difference in your wardrobe include
- Wardrobe organisation
- Spend time taking out items you never wear.
- Move treasured items to the front.
- Plan your week’s outfits ahead based on what you have in your diary.
- Fit - one of the most powerful ways to change how you feel. Let go of anything that doesn't. For treasured items that aren’t quite there, get them altered, its cheaper than buying new. Find out what suits your body type.
- Colour - a great way to boost confidence. Choosing colours that help you radiate will not only make you feel wonderful but will get different engagement from others.
- Accessories - these can give your style instant authority. Choose them to work with your outfits and reflect your personal style.
Get in touch if you want help defining your ambitions through your wardrobe.