“How we dress and how we present ourselves is important because we only have one shot to make a first impression,” says executive image consultant DeAnna DuPree (DeannaDupree.com). Even more to the point: “It takes two seconds for someone to make that initial judgment and nine hours for you to make them believe something different,” she adds.
As the owner of Impeccable Style, DuPree helps women leaders—and, recently, men—enhance their image and amplify their impact. How people perceive you is a strategic art, she points out. What you wear, how you carry yourself, and even the images you share online can determine whether you land a job, snag a promotion, or obtain a client.
“Many people assume that a stylist is for a photo shoot or a celebrity,” DuPree explains. “But anyone who is in business should work with a consultant. We polish your entire image. You’re selling yourself, so you need to show that you’re credible, you’re competent, you’re trustworthy.”
DuPree recently spoke with Scottsdale City Lifestyle about presenting a professional image. Here are her top six tips for looking and being your best.
Dress professionally: “One of the biggest mistakes women make is dressing up casual when they should be dressing down business. Don’t dress up leggings. Do dress down a power suit. You still want to look professional. Keep that one rule in mind and you’ll be able to show up a little more polished and a lot more confident.”
You don’t need a fortune to look good: “It’s not about how much something costs but instead about what looks good on you and what makes you feel polished. Why should you spend five grand on a handbag when you can spend that on an entire wardrobe if you do it right?”
Create a shopping checklist: “We get so overwhelmed when we have to go shopping, and we end up buying all sorts of items that we never wear. Create a prioritized shopping list and stick to it. Say you have two blazers, right? What do you need to complete your outfits? You’ll need a trouser, a pencil skirt, a black shoe. Then focus just on those things.”
Don’t skimp on color: “Black is not the be-all, end-all when it comes to business attire. Learn what your power colors are—the ones that really light you up and turn on your creativity. For me, I like to wear colored blazers. It’s important to show up stylishly but also authentically. If you do that, your energy will soar and you will become a magnet.”
Less is more: “We don’t need to wear five different bracelets or all our rings on every finger. Think about classic Hollywood—Audrey, Marilyn. They may have had a dainty watch, one simple necklace, or pearl earrings. They could still be feminine and powerful without being overly adorned. We don’t need to showcase our entire closet in one ensemble.”
Dress for the venue and occasion: “Before picking an outfit, it’s important to know where you’re going to be. Are you going to be inside or outside? Sitting or standing? You don’t want to be stuck in the corner, scared to come out because you’re dressed inappropriately or are uncomfortable. So do your research. It’s called strategic style.”