What to Wear When You Want to Feel Confident and Be Taken Seriously
Key Points
- Power Suit Impact: Wearing a power suit conveys strong qualities like authority and leadership, especially useful in high-stakes situations. It’s described as a transformative outfit that literally opens doors, emphasizing its effect on confidence and the perception of competence.
- Versatility of Business Casual: Business casual attire strikes a balance between formal and casual, making it suitable for daily office wear or video calls. It communicates professionalism while remaining approachable, fostering an environment conducive to collaboration and free-flowing ideas.
- Expression Through Bohemian Chic: Bohemian chic promotes creativity and comfort, suitable for less formal workplaces or creative fields. This style allows individuals to showcase their unique identity and confidence, making it perfect for standing out in meetings or inspiring innovation in team sessions.
If you’ve ever stood in front of your closet wondering
“Is this too much? Not enough? Will I look like I belong in the room?” — i do this all the time!
Navigating business attire can feel like decoding a dress code that no one fully explains.
When you don’t feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows.
It affects how you speak, how you walk, how you show up.
The right outfit doesn’t just check a box — it helps you own your space.
Let’s break it down, not just by the labels — but by what these outfits actually say about you.
And yes, I’ll throw in some brands I trust (because figuring this out shouldn’t take a full weekend).
The Power Suit: When You Want to Walk in and Own the Room
Wearing a suit isn’t about being stiff or overly formal — it’s about commanding respect without saying a word.
When you walk into a high-stakes meeting, pitch session, or courtroom wearing a sharp, structured suit, you’re not just dressed for the role — you become the role.
And no, your suit doesn’t have to look boring.
Look for clean tailoring, solid neutral tones (navy, black, charcoal) and fabrics that feel good to wear.
Some of my go-to brands for this?
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Theory – clean, timeless, expensive-feeling
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Banana Republic – solid tailoring without the designer price tag
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Argent – built specifically for women who want suits that work hard and look sharp
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M.M. LaFleur – for modern power dressing that still feels soft and wearable
Pro tip: Pair with a sleek blouse or a silk tank for versatility — and don’t forget the confidence-boosting heels or pointed flats.
Business Casual: When You Want to Look Polished But Not Intimidating
Business casual can feel like a gray area. Too casual, and you look underdressed.
Too formal, and you look like you’re trying too hard. But when it’s done right? It’s that perfect middle ground of “I’m capable, but I’m human.”
Think structured slacks or midi skirts, button-downs, knit tops, or a tailored blazer over a soft tee.
Neutrals like beige, gray, and navy always work — but don’t be afraid to add a little color or print to show your personality.
You want to look put-together, but approachable.
Ideal for day-to-day office wear, casual client meetings, and even Zoom calls where only your top half matters.
Some great business casual go-to brands:
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Everlane – elevated basics with a conscious footprint;
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J.Crew – a classic that’s kept up with the times;
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Quince – affordable cashmere, silk, and elevated essentials;
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& Other Stories – for a pop of European flair with structured ease;
✅Pro tip: Keep a blazer or a cardigan nearby — it instantly pulls together any casual base outfit when you need to step it up.
Bohemian Chic: Creativity and Comfort
Boho fashion fuses vibrant patterns, bold colors, and cultural influences for an aesthetic that emphasizes creativity, freedom, and a non-conformist approach to fashion.
Boho outfits are perfect for creative industries, relaxed workplaces, or casual Fridays and may include flowy skirts, airy blouses, layers of accessories, and an assortment of textures and prints.
Johnny Was boho clothes communicate an effortless blend of carefree charm and professionalism while still being an eye-catcher at meetings or events.
Perfect for days when you want to stand out, inspire, or add artistic flare into brainstorming sessions.
Boho chic goes beyond being just an outfit choice, it shows that you feel confident about who you are as an individual and in their ideas.
Smart Casual: For Creative Thinkers
When business casual and casual Friday converge into one stylish look, their offspring will look something like smart casual attire.
An expression of your individuality where casual pieces such as jeans or sneakers combine with elevated items (think blazers or sophisticated knitwear) in order to show your individuality.
Perfect for creative industries or informal networking situations when comfort and daring are desired at once, smart casual attire makes an impactful first impression and showcases creativity in an affordable yet memorable manner.
Startup Staple: Comfort Meets Productivity
Welcome to the realm of hoodies, graphic tees, and beanies: comfort meets productivity in startup land.
Embark upon this casual dress code, which celebrates productivity over formality while signaling to employees,
“I’m focused on changing the world, and my clothes won’t hold me back.”
Perfect attire for late-night brainstorming sessions, coding marathons, and coffee runs alike.
Conclusion: Dressing for Success in Your Own Style
Amidst the vast landscape of business attire and business casual dresses, understanding clothing can give you an advantage in navigating it effectively.
Each style serves a specific function and conveys an aspect of your professional identity.
Be it power suiting, team building in business casual dress code, sparking creativity in smart casual, or breaking barriers in startup casual dress code, remember that the ideal outfit blends authenticity with intentionality for maximum success.
Dress not for the expected job, but let it declare who you are without having to speak out loud enough.
