I may not be able to recall Olivia Pope’s iconic lines, but I remember every ensemble she’s sported in Scandal.
Olivia was a lady boss, and not just because she’s impeccable - she commanded attention in the room with her looks and how she carried herself. She knew exactly how to be downright stylish AND powerful.
Her style was so distinct in my mind, I actually had an Olivia Pope phase. My eyes would be glued to the television taking note of her femme fatale get-ups. Up until now, Olivia still has a heavy influence over my wardrobe choices.
The way Olivia unapologetically made the campaign lanes and White House her runway left a strong impression on me: corporate fashion should not be stuffy AT ALL!
Rediscovering Corporate Fashion
Through the years, corporate style has been pictured as boring, bland, and staying in one lane.
There’s the couture style, where freedom in rocking the most unique, most outrageous fashion statements is welcome and encouraged.
Luxury style also has a very iconic flair - think red carpet, premier nights, an award ceremony where you don a beautiful luxury gown that leaves a trail of opulence everywhere you go.
Trendy styles also need no announcement. This style is hip, fun, a little adventurous, and does not hesitate to tiptoe on the edge.
Corporate style, however, is a bit hard to define. A couple of questions come with this style.
“Where do you draw the line between style and not losing your credibility as a leader and executive?”
“Can style really blend into the corporate world where looking formal and business-like is a must?”
When it comes to corporate style, here’s one thing I’ve learned through the years: breaking free from the outdated rules of corporate fashion is one of the best ways to create your personal brand.
Stellar Corporate Fashion = Better Personal Brand
I am one of the biggest believers that fashion and style speak for us even before we utter a word. People will not always remember what you said, but the elegant ensemble you’ve prepared for your presentation will leave a mark. I know, I know, that sounds a little shallow but looks simply make you stand out.
If you are working your way up on the corporate ladder, or if you want to let investors know you mean business, having a wardrobe that conveys this will increase your success.
When you seem to doubt your capacity to reach a higher level, one of the best ways to convince yourself that you can is to rock a killer corporate wardrobe confidently.
One of the experiences that solidified my persistence with dressing the part in the workplace happened when I was just starting my career. While I was walking past some cubicles, an executive stopped me and asked if I was part of the executive team. Surely, the way I curated my look for that day made me look like one, and because I was wearing an executive-worthy ensemble, it gave me the aura AND the confidence to walk and feel like an executive.
That moment was an eye-opener for me - if I was keen on becoming an executive, I should look and feel the part. Looking and feeling like an executive before I was even one gave me the power to really reach for the possibilities.
Despite the pandemic and the move to work from home, I still make sure my wardrobe choices convey what I want my team to know - that I’m skilled, I’m capable as a leader, I am strong, and I mean business.
This means rocking a no-fail outfit, a hair done well, and the right makeup even if I only had three hours of sleep!
Embracing Corporate Style Based On Your Personal Brand
“Latoya, how did you find the style that worked for you?”
I got to be honest - zeroing in on my signature style took a lot of trial and error. You can wear the most elegant looks, but if it doesn’t scream “This is me!” you won’t be confident in it.
So how did I choose my corporate style?
First, I listened to my heart.
I know, that sounds clichè, but if you want your ensembles to do the talking, they should 100% represent you.
Every time I think of what to wear, I remind myself this: “What do you want your bosses and teammates to think of you?” How are you going to define your Personal Brand through your wardrobe?
Overtime, I figured out the style that worked for me: “A strong woman in the corporate world… no apologies.”
I want to convey this - I’m a woman, I am proud to be one, now let’s get down to business.
Although I still adhere to the formal looks, I make sure to put my own spin to it. The style could mean a crisp pair of wide-legged pants coupled with an elegant top featuring a pop of color and ultra-feminine details. Some days, it could be a dress with a smart cut and a trendy pattern.
You can create your personal corporate style by choosing pieces that express who you are, and how you want your contemporaries to see you.
Second, I mix style with practicality.
We all have various fields. Some of us may spend hours in the boardroom, while some of us may be called to use their expertise on site. Wearing heels when you need to visit sites and rough locations, and then subsequently have a hard time may raise some eyebrows. Consider the nature of your role, and make some practical - but stylish! - choices.
Third, own your style.
Be unapologetic like Olivia Pope.
Me dressing up like an executive even when I was not even one did cause some bewilderment to others. You’ll probably have your fair share of surprised looks, too. But you know what? Own it. Own your style. Own the power that comes with rocking your style of choice. If your corporate style makes energy run through your veins, own it like a pro and make every aisle your runway!
If there’s one thing I’m most grateful for, it’s the fact that there’s no cookie-cutter style for the corporate world. You can wear whatever makes you feel strong, capable, and empowered. So shake off the shackles of old-corporate style and embrace the style that’s unapologetically yours!
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