Joined: 20th October 2016
Website: | www.thefundamentalman.com |
Every Piece is a Statement
It's Monday morning and you just woke up. Work starts in 20 minutes and it takes you 15 just to get there. You had a long night and you're probably even hung over. So what do you do? If by now I've perfectly described your Monday morning, the likely answer is that you put on whatever you can grab; maybe even recycle last night's change.
By the grace of the gods you manage to arrive work in the knick of time and, as always, your boss is already there putting in serious work. You're strolling along onto your cubicle when suddenly a coworker comes up to you and asks “What are you wearing?” with a confused gaze. Immediately, without even checking yourself out, you begin to regret all the decisions that has lead to that moment.
As you live through those situations you begin to realize that every piece you wear is a statement that you convey. From your hairstyle (or not) all the way down to your shoes, you're sending a message; and guess what? People get it loud and clear.
By the scenario we started out with we see that those style choices, or lack thereof, also portray some truths about your personality. In that very example anyone can perceive a lack of direction, motivation, and self preservation. So it's because of those images that we transmit that we get turned down for promotions at work or relationships in your personal life.
So before you slap on a pair of denim, sneakers and a white T to work, think about what you're telling the world. If by your 30's you're still doing that, you're saying that you still haven't grown up yet. And that outfit is not so cute anymore when your receding hairline has risen higher than sea levels thanks to climate change.
Now it's also worth mentioning that there are rules and exceptions. Those denims, sneakers and white T go great on the weekend when you're at the park or at a party. Aside from now dressing for the occasion, you're also dressing to transmit a relaxed and casual feel. Knowing what to wear and when is a 6th sense that takes to time to master and perfect. It's the kind of skill that tells you not to wear a tuxedo on a 4th of July BBQ.
As you begin to understand that dressing up is not just about covering your body parts, you see that every single piece you wear requires great care. Wearing a watch may say you have an appreciation for time, but wearing a smart watch also says you don't want to miss any Facebook notification. Wearing casual oxfords over sneakers says that you take yourself seriously and have left those boy-ish habits in the dusts.
From a personal experience preparation is key. It's always best to plan your outfit the night before and have everything washed, ironed, polished ready to go out the door. Maybe tomorrow is the day your work is looking for its next manager or you get to meet that special someone for the first time; you'll be thankful to be ready for those moments in your life.