We lawyers are trained to accept certain confines.
We work within rules of court practice and professional conduct. We study laws and cases with the understanding that they generally form the foundation and boundaries of our work and efforts.
Style, while certainly less rigid in its “rules,” also requires the observance of certain elements, without which no outfit can truly serve its purpose of making you feel powerful: fit, fabric, and function.
We’ll explore each of these elements individually, but let’s start with working definitions of how these elements apply to powerful style.
Fit requires that your outfit fits your body and your style. There are the basics of fit, meaning that your clothes should not be too loose or too tight, and they should compliment your figure. There is also the more subjective consideration: does the outfit fit your style, your personality, the message you’re trying to convey with your clothes?
Fabric is the consideration of both the type of cloth from which your clothes are made and its color and patterns. Even the highest quality of fabric won’t work if the color or pattern is not flattering for you. Fabrics like wool and cotton typically prove to be the most reliable and will provide the best fit, as well.
Function will ensure that your clothes are right for the task at hand. Even the right fit and fabric for your body won’t make you feel powerful if they’re not appropriate for the event and the season. A lovely linen suit will not serve you well in the winter, and you’ll look out of place. A formal suit will make you feel overdressed and unapproachable at an informal gathering.
With a bit of forethought, these elements will be your most helpful tools when creating your powerful style.