Fashion psychology
Clothing can instil positivity in people for effective performance. We hear from six women who reveal the wardrobe piece that makes them feel the most confident and empowered.
The Red suit
Kate Nightingale, 37
Head consumer psychologist and founder of Style Psychology Ltd
London
“I love red for the strength, energy, confidence and sheer invincible feeling it gives me. It has been my favourite colour since I can only remember and is now my brand colour as well.
“There are also studies showing that information presented by people wearing red, rather than white or blue, is treated as more accurate. Since my work involves applying science to help brands succeed, it is important for me that people trust my advice.
“I also love trousers suits for the blend of comfort and elegance that they allow me to express and experience.”
The “risquè yet elegant” dress
Angela Kyte, 49
Stylist and image consultant
London
“Having spent months searching for an edgy evening dress to wear to the Grand Prix Ball, I unexpectedly observed this La Mania dress in Joseph on Sloane Street and immediately fell in love with it. I love that it allows me to demonstrate my elegant, edgy and naughty authentic self all at the same time. The vibrant shade of red and the risquè yet elegant style of the dress made me feel confident, in control, empowered and sexy as I posed on the red carpet and floated around at the Ball.”
The colour yellow
Dawn Nicole McIlwain, 42
Innovator and educator
North Carolina, United States
“Yellow Symbolizes optimism, energy, joy, happiness and friendship and also stands for intellect. It represents my silent-riot and chants to the world that I am blossoming, becoming and have arrived! I am fierce and say so with no words!”
The oversized trench
Elodie Daspersgruber, 30
Private client stylist
London
“Anyone who knows me knows that being comfortable in your outfit is key to me. Confidence starts with what you are wearing and the way you present yourself to the world.
“Oversized yet very elegant, this Gauge 81 trench coat from NET-A-PORTER is currently one of my favorite pieces. Dressed up or dressed down? Both works, which is perfect for me as my go-to style is casual chic. It’s that tailored piece that will immediately elevate your [look] and give you full confidence.”
The floral shirt dress and patent heels
Tracy Short, 57
Executive headhunter and career coach
London
“After a year in lockdown, it was fun to pull out this dress and heels. It’s a Dries Van Noten shirt dress with a twisted cut, it feels great to wear and I feel confident when I wear it. It’s ladylike and sexy and best of all, after all these years it’s still fits! Worn today with Gianvito Rossi patent heels with toe cleavage and surprisingly comfortable considering the shape.”
The silk dress
Laura Pew, 34
Freelance PR and VIP consultant
Between London and New York
“The piece in my wardrobe which makes me feel most empowered is this polka dot silk dress from Réalisation Par. Anyone that knows me wouldn’t have said it was a particularly ‘me’ piece, as my usual daily uniform is a pair of high-waist jeans, a metallic T-Shirt and a biker jacket. This dress is a total departure from the rest of my wardrobe. I’ve actually had it for a few years now, but it’s turned out to be one of the most versatile pieces I own. I can wear it with a cashmere sweater to the office, with red lipstick and ankle boots to a work event or with a pair of Converse to meet friends for a drink at the weekend. I have [also] been known to take it on holiday (as in the picture).
“It’s travelled the world with me and is probably the most favourite item in my wardrobe. I always feel a little bit more ‘put-together’ when I’m wearing it.”