My lovely girls went crazy after last week’s column and said I was being partial to men when it came to power dressing.
“What about the women?” asked the bestie.
“I have a 500-word restriction darling,” was my defence.
When I think of ‘power’ dressing for women, I suddenly think of Wonder Woman and Elastigirl or even Charlie’s Angels. The first two had their own ‘power suits’ while the angels were ordinary girls. Then there was Margaret Thatcher, the original iron lady with her well-tailored suits, sharp bobbed hair and box bags, her line of pearls and closed shoes. She oozed power from all sides.
Since the SEBI’s directive in February 2014, that all listed companies should have at least one female member on its board of directors, I think the men too have started taking the women in the boardroom more seriously. The original power suit was usually a long jacket with big, padded shoulders, a straight skirt, and often, a floppy silk bow tie. In the 80s, the power suit was designed to ignore a woman’s shape (really!) so it didn’t hinder her mobility (she was climbing the corporate ladder you see). Soon, these moved over to the more elegant pant suits – stylish and sexy but not vulgar. However, the casual workplace culture of the 90s became quite a challenge, as rules started to bend and the lines blurred. What do you do when everyone, including the CEO, wears jeans?
The simple answer is: good tailoring. If your clothes fit well, your posture is going to be better; you will stand taller and look more confident. The clothes you wear must not command you; rather, you must command the clothes. It’s important to feel confident and let the wardrobe act like your support system.
Power dressing is extremely culturally relative, even job-specific. There are certain rules that apply universally. The watchword is to look professional and retain your femininity.
The Suit: When the occasion is right, it’s important to wear a suit, whatever business you are in. Choose lightweight fabrics (avoid lines because they crumple easily). Pick a neutral colour with minimal patterns. You could wear it with a skirt or tailored trousers. The skirt length should be just above the knee and the pant length below the ankle.
The Shirt: A smart shirt under your suit jacket will complement it well. There may be times when you have to take off your jacket (think hot weather in India). Your shirt should be well fitted, but never let the buttons pop. Avoid very low necklines, though a little plunge is very chic, especially with a lapelled jacket. Choose from lightweight silks to crumple-free fabrics in neutral tones. Wear a well-fitted bra.
The Feet: Wear comfortable shoes, but avoid flats. A little bit of height will not hurt. Toes must be covered. If you can carry off high-heels with a pantsuit, you will look like a diva.
The Lips: We all love colour, and they’re such a giveaway – they say don’t take me seriously (seriously). Keep the bright ones for evenings and the neutrals for the boardroom (I know I sound boring, but it’s just for a few hours). But RED is powerful and you could wear it with minimal make-up and little or no accessories. Red bags are fine without any bling.
The Accessories: A string of pearls, a brooch and a simple bracelet or cuff is all you need. Keep the earrings short and sweet. Always wear a watch. It speaks about your orderliness and respect for time.
The Legs: Stockings are an option in India, especially when wearing skirts. If you choose not to wear them, make sure your legs are clean. Wear liners with regular shoes to keep the feet moisture-free.
The Bag: The bag must always be good-looking – like the lady herself. Carry a mid-sized, structured bag free from dangling details. Avoid totes.
Make-up and Hair: To finish your look, keep hair well-trimmed and tied neatly. Wear minimal make-up, get a manicure and wear a light or neutral shade of nail paint (a French manicure is the safest option; no reds or pinks). Facial hair, eyebrows and upper lips should be threaded or waxed.
Power dressing, in the end, is all about the right attitude. Keep your chin up and smile.
