DRESS THE PART: Your Personal Style Strategy

Last week we had a great event at the boutique Simply You by Jess where our dear Club Member Sarai Tave gave the audience her best fashion tips for networking events. Because style is more than fashion, it’s communication. It’s how you show up in the world before you even say a word. That’s exactly what we explored that day and we want to share it with you!

Whether you're heading into a boardroom, recording a podcast, or walking into a networking event, your outfit is part of your message. The goal? Not to be trendy, but to be intentional.

Why Style Matters in Business

Your style tells a story. And in entrepreneurship, first impressions can make or break an opportunity. We encouraged our guests to ask themselves:

What do I want my style to say about me?
How can I use my wardrobe as a tool for confidence and clarity?
Where am I dressing for comfort vs. where am I dressing with intention?

When you take time to reflect on what outfits have made you feel powerful, creative, or seen; those moments become your guide.

Crafting a Style Strategy

She walked the guests through building a practical wardrobe strategy based on real-life scenarios and their day-to-day professional lives. From Business Formal to Creative Attire, everyone identified what they already owned and what could elevate each dress code category.

Here’s how the categories broke down:

Business Formal – For high-stakes meetings, pitches, or panels.
Business Casual – For day-to-day business life: client calls, lunches, co-working.
Smart Casual – For networking events, creative meetups, and casual brand gatherings.
Cocktail Attire – For evening mixers and launch parties.
Formal/Black Tie – For galas, award nights, and luxury fundraisers.
Creative Attire – For fashion-forward events, brand photoshoots, or anywhere your visual identity can shine.

Each participant created a roadmap of how they currently show up and how they want to show up.

Style Meets Body Awareness

Understanding fit and shape is a foundational part of feeling confident. The guests identified silhouettes that empower them and took note of what pieces may need tailoring. Because the right fit isn’t a luxury, it’s a strategy.

We also explored style staples; those essential pieces that create a solid foundation for a powerful wardrobe:

A power blazer
A signature dress or statement piece
Tailored trousers or smart dark denim
A signature accessory or standout item that defines your brand

The Style Scenario Game

We wrapped up with a fun but insightful reflection game. Participants imagined real-life moments and planned outfits that would reflect both confidence and intention:

Coffee with a New Client – How do you appear approachable yet professional?
Evening Networking Mixer – How can you stand out while staying comfortable?
Podcast or Live Interview – What conveys credibility on camera while staying true to your brand?

Final Takeaway: Style is Strategy

At the end of the day, your outfit is more than fabric, it’s a frame for your presence. Your clothes should never distract, but they should say something. Whether it’s subtle power or bold creativity, the way you dress is part of how you lead.

What do you think?

If you would like personalized advice, contact Sarai!!