A step-by-step guide to using style as a tool for presence, not performance

Let’s talk about dressing with intention

“Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” It’s a phrase that’s been passed around for decades, equal parts advice and aspiration. But what does it really mean in today’s world of hybrid work, shifting dress codes, and evolving ideas of leadership?

Done thoughtfully, dressing for the role above you can signal readiness, confidence, and alignment with your future goals. Done carelessly, it can feel performative, out of touch, or even alienating. This guide helps you navigate the nuance.

Define the Role You’re Aiming For

Before you change your wardrobe, clarify your direction.

☑ Ask yourself:

• What kind of leadership or influence do I want to embody?
• What does “the next level” look like in my field or organisation?
• Who do I admire, and how do they show up?

✍ The role I’m aspiring toward is ____________________________
and I want to be seen as someone who ____________________________.

Observe, Don’t Imitate

Look at how people in those roles dress, but don’t copy them outright.

☑ Consider:

• What’s consistent across leaders in your space?
• What’s personal or stylistic versus expected?
• What’s appropriate for your context (e.g. tech vs. law, in-office vs. remote)?

✍ One style cue I’ve noticed is ____________________________
and I could adapt it by ____________________________.

Elevate, Don’t Overdress

The goal isn’t to outshine your team, it’s to show you’re ready for more.

☑ Try:

• Choosing well-fitted, high-quality basics
• Adding one elevated element (e.g. structured blazer, polished shoes, statement accessory)
• Avoiding extremes, no tuxedos at team meetings

✍ One small upgrade I’ll try is ____________________________
because it helps me feel ____________________________.

Align Style with Substance

Clothes can open doors, but they can’t walk through them for you.

☑ Ask yourself:

• Am I backing up my appearance with action, insight, and care?
• Do I show up with the same intention in my work as I do in my wardrobe?
• Am I dressing for visibility or for value?

✍ To align my presence and performance, I’ll focus on ____________________________.

Make It Yours

Style is personal. Let your wardrobe reflect your values, not just your ambition.

☑ Consider:

• What makes you feel grounded and confident?
• How can you express leadership without losing authenticity?
• What does “professional” look like in your body, culture, or context?

✍ My version of dressing for the next level includes ____________________________
because it reflects ____________________________.

Final Reflection: What Are You Really Dressing For?

At its best, dressing for the role above you isn’t about status; it’s about signalling readiness, respect, and self-awareness. What would it mean to dress not just for where you’re going, but for who you’re becoming?

✍ If I could rewrite the phrase, I’d say:
“Dress for the kind of presence you want to bring into the room.”

Pop over to Gwenin for a selection of frameworks, or pop over to Spiralmore’s collections. You’re also welcome to explore our more relaxed corner: the informal blog.