Whenever I think power dressing, I always think of the late Rajmata of Jaipur Gayatri Devi. She wore her silk chiffons with as much élan as her Polo suits. In both type of clothes and role she made her presence felt. My point is that power dressing is job specific and culturally relative. In India, we have a variety of ensemble to choose from. The age old sarees make as much an impact as a well tailored suit. It is the way one carries it.Power dressing has now percolated to every level of any organization. I sometimes hide a smile of satisfaction when I see women stand out in their attire, in a room full of serious men with uninteresting suits. Though substance is important, it is equally vital for women to project the right image.
My personal choice is always skewed towards clothes that are comfortable. I wear both western and Indian clothes in office. The key for women is to look professional, yet retain their femininity. I add accessories such as a simple string of pearls, ear drops or sometimes silk scarves with my suits. Fashion magazines have made the terms ‘business formals’ and ‘business casuals’ very common. My mantra about Friday dressing is casual yet chic. I like carrying leather tote’s that are not too big but large enough to hold my ipad and other essentials. A subtle hint of perfume, a wrist watch and comfortable shoes, and I am ready to face the world.
Lastly, I must stress the point that it is the attitude that counts. Be positive, look confident, smile and people will look up to you.
