Confidence dressing is a great way to build a new appearance and self esteem in recovery. Fashion is one of the least considered aspects of entering recovery as most of the focus is on staying sober and clean. Once a person gets through initial recovery, it will be important to focus on the outer appearance and dressing appropriately for interviews, work and meeting new people. Find out some ways a person can dress to impress while building self confidence.
Chemistry of Fashion
Fashion is an individual as people’s personalities. An outfit can alter a person’s appearance, approach and way of engaging the world. Assembling an outfit can be as important as the way it fits and is perceived by others. The phenomenon, dubbed ‘enclothed cognition,’ means that if the brain associates certain types of clothing or brands with power and confidence, the individual wearing the clothes will likely take on the associated traits and attributes.
Get Dressed
Recovery is a stressful, challenging time but getting dressed should not be. Dressing up for work, to go out or for a special occasion may feel difficult for someone who has not done so in a long time. Real confidence is not just about brands, it comes with knowing one’s own personal strengths and playing up those attributes. The following five approaches can help a person dress with confidence.
Find the right colors
Knowing what colors work for a person’s skin tone and complexion is important. Hair color also plays a role in what color clothes work well. Doing research on what skin tones look best with what colors (warm or darker tones versus spring or lighter tones) can really enhance a person’s countenance.
Consider shape
A person’s shape is important in dressing well. Banana, apple, pear and hourglass figures are the four main types. Dressing in a way that flatters a person’s unique shape can help a person confidently wear clothes that fit and flow well for height and shape.
Play to strengths
Consider other strengths when looking into outfits. A curvier figure might look good in a pantsuit whereas a taller person may wear vertical stripes well. Look at features such as hips, legs, torso, shoulders and bustline (women) or chest size (men) to find the best body-flattering clothes.
Know personal style
Dress to feel comfortable more than anything else. Styles which feel natural but may not be conventional will communicate personal style and confidence. Feel free to demonstrate personal flair (when appropriate). A person’s outfit is the first thing people see when an individual is in public so personal presentation is important.
Dress for occasion
Accurately assessing an occasion will help an individual dress appropriately. It is hard to feel confident when over or underdressed at an event. When uncertain, ask others to help guide style choices for appropriate levels of dress in circumstances such as funerals, weddings, celebrations, work parties or other special events.
Confidence is key to sobriety and recovery. Learning how to dress can build self-esteem and a positive, healthy self image. Hired Power can support you in your journey if you need help moving from addiction to recovery.
