What do your clothes say about you?
When you walk down the street, do you attract smiles, stares, or are you simply ignored? Do strangers think you're approachable or scary? What are people's first impressions of you?
You probably know by now that a first impression can really matter to your life.
But have you really thought about what you wear, and what it says to people?
Check out your style below and see where you fit:
1. The Businessperson Typical attire: On a regular day you wear a suit or slacks/blazer, neutral colors, and very little jewelry, if any. You tend to button up to the top, carry a square or rectangular briefcase-like bag, and pointy toed shoes. Your hair is hairsprayed in place, with neutral makeup. You also likely sport a cellphone or PDA, walking briskly.
What you're saying: I'm all-business, no-nonsense. I will be respectful. I am authoritative, on time, and don't waste time. I can be counted on to get the job done.
The verdict: This can be a great look for business. Angles and solid, neutral colors don't distract. Makeup and hair don't draw attention. However, this look can also put people off, making you seem less approachable, more boring, and sometimes, less trustworthy. To ease up, try unbuttoning a blazer or the top buttons of a blouse, exchange an accessory for something softer (like a rounded bag or cute shoes). Take slower strides. To make yourself look fun, add a bright color or print, even if only in a scarf or a piece of jewelry.
2. The Student Typical attire: You're the head of the class with your backpack and jeans or colorful baggy pants, sneakers, huge hooded sweatshirts. You might wear a hat, throw your hair into a ponytail, wear earphones, have a cord running to your belt. You tend to walk slowly, dragging your feet. Hardly any jewelry or makeup.
What you're saying: I'm off to class! I don't care what anyone thinks, and I don't really care how I look, because this is what I want to wear. I'm relaxed, easygoing, fun, but maybe a little depressed, tired, or bored. I'm looking for some fun.
The verdict: If you're a student, good for you. But this look has to go if you're headed for an interview. People may find you approachable but may turn away from those earphones. You may also look sloppy and unable to take care of yourself. Switch to a sleeker look with more fitted tops over baggy pants, and put on some colored shoes. A ponytail is a good sleek look, but more a professional situation, place it at the nape of your neck. A cross-body messenger bag or a big tote may look better than a backpack.
3. The Tease Typical attire: You dress in short shorts or deep, plunging Vs, flirty skirts and micro minis. Clothes tend to be in bold colors or bright prints. Your hair is teased and spritzed to perfection, with plenty of makeup. Jewelry is bold and vivid, and you carry the latest in metallics, sequins, or glitter bags. A cell phone with a pretty cover is a must.
What you're saying: I drive people wild and am the life of the party! I'm out for a good time, like to meet new people, and am never afraid. I get what I want.
The verdict: This is a look for an approachable, bold person, and makes you radiate confidence and sex-appeal. Beware of looking too out-there for some, who may be intimidated by you. Avoid overkill with accessories and glitter, which can scream "look, but don't touch." Don't allow this look to compromise professionalism. Neutralize with something staid (cover up with a shawl, bring those heels an inch down). Knowing when too much (or too little) is acceptable is key to drawing the line between sexy and slutty.
4. The Little Girl Typical attire: You often wear skirts or dresses and enjoy tops with bows, ruffles, and polka dots or flowers. You wear flats or low heels, small bags and accessories in pastels. Your hair may sport bangs and hang loose and smooth, with little fuss. Jewelry is small and in gold or silver or pearls. You enjoy carrying an umbrella, and might be seen sporting a parasol or kid gloves.
What you're saying: I'm a little lady, and very prim and proper, but also naive and lighthearted. Like a child, I enjoy good, clean fun, and will always know the right thing to do or say.
The verdict: Your look is that of a child, who is naive and believes everything. You appear innocent and sweet, but may attract those who want to dupe you. You might also come across as prudish and self-righteous, or simply not too much real, grown-up fun. Help your look age with a pair of pants or even glasses, a trendy bag, a sophisticated hairdo.
There are other variations on looks: the hippie, the fashionista, the hobo, the old lady, the overworked mom, the rapper, the fake athlete. You know them. You may or may not fit into one category (both in terms of fashion and lifestyle), but consider what you would think of someone who dressed in your style, and consider how you WISH to be seen. After all, you want to be dressed appropriately and comfortably, no matter who you are inside.