Power Dressing
Power Dressing is a term born in the 1970s and matured in the 1980s; it is a style of dressing that enables men and women to establish authority in a professional and political environment. Men are already in authority in this male-dominated society. So, the term evolved for women who are either in politics or in a superior position professionally. Power Dressing for Indian women has evolved as they started pursuing their careers and achieving their financial independence goals. It was never a part of Indian history, as women were supposed to be better homemakers and not money makers (Harsh but the Truth).
Meaning of Power Dressing
The literal meaning of Power Dressing is evident. Dressing and styling to establish authority while adding a touch of feminine look to avoid making it look completely male-like. As the need is to establish women’s authority and not just copy the males. Bring women to the frontal roles and not let them be just a support system.
We have developed technologically, yet still a majority of women are expected to play the role of a support system. I guarantee if men could be such support systems, then women, too, could have held authoritative positions and led the world.
Power Dressing for Women
How important is it for women to dress powerfully at work? Well, I would say the way a person is dressed gives the very first impression. So, keeping the look simple while focusing on the skills and talent that are way more important than looks should be respected. But a well-dressed person looks attractive and boosts the confidence of themselves as well as others around them.
It has two different forms: Indian and Western. The major difference could be seen in the attires of Indian female politicians and the lady politicians from the western countries. The western outfit includes tailored suits, structured silhouettes, neutral or bold colors, and oversized bold jewelry.
Power Dressing for Men
Men are already treated as authoritative; hence, power dressing is not for men. The term has been developed to define a sense of dressing among women that can make them look more professional. Especially in the positions where the men have dominated for years.
Power Dressing for Indian Women
Power dressing evolved earlier in the western countries than in developing countries like India. But these days, when more women are taking professional and leadership roles, it has made a place in the lives of Indian women. The vibrant culture of India has evolved a different way of dressing powerfully. The Indian women politicians and entrepreneurs have styled themselves powerfully in their own ways.
The Indian women told us that one can dress decently while showcasing power. There are Indian attires that make a woman look suitable for the leadership roles.
Power Dressing Women
Power Dressing women is quite important for both men and women. It fills women with confidence and makes men realize that they need to follow the commands of their superior, whether it’s a man or a woman. There are a lot of styling options when it comes to power dressing for women. Power Dressed women see themselves as more competent, intelligent, and capable. It also has a positive impact while trying to make the first impression.
Power Dressing helps reduce the feeling of anxiety or imposter syndrome. Below we have discussed some of the best power dressing options in both Indian and Western attire. So! Let’s dive in!
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Power Dressing for Indian Females
The best example of power dressing for Indian females is the politicians. The way they carry themselves in Indian outfits is worth following. Wearing neutral shades, sarees, or suits with a collared vest upon them. It all looks very classy and authoritative. With the pictures below, we will get to know some of the most stylish women in India who are perfect examples of Power Dressing. You can choose one of these for your workplace, whether you are in corporate or government jobs or any other profession that requires you to look your best.
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Kangana Ranaut – Most Stylish Politician
Kangana Ranaut has done wonders in Bollywood; now she has entered Indian politics. Her dressing sense has inspired a lot of women. Her attire can give you a lot of ideas about how to dress powerfully while looking graceful. Whatever she wears is so soothing to the eyes while adding a sense of responsibility towards the public. Her way of dressing has built trust among the people and helped her grow as a politician.
Her approach emphasizes intelligence, empathy, and accessibility—qualities that are highly relevant in Indian politics. Kangana Ranaut’s power clothing demonstrates how purposeful simplicity can make the biggest impression.
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Priyanka Gandhi – Simplicity and Strength
She has a great dressing sense that is powerful and inspiring. Most of the time she is dressed in a saree but also has a collection of cotton suits that make her look elegant and classy. The artistic fusion of heritage, symbolism, and political statement characterizes Priyanka Gandhi’s style.
Her strong, approachable persona is reflected in her power attire, which has its roots in Indian cultural aesthetics. She is wearing a beautiful blue handloom cotton kurta and matching dupatta in the picture above. This ensemble speaks to the spirit of grassroots India and inspires a feeling of genuineness and camaraderie.
Unlike the overtly corporate or glam power dressing seen globally, Priyanka’s wardrobe choices exude quiet confidence. Her preference for khadi, Chanderi, cotton, and silk weaves from across the country subtly promotes Indian artisans and handloom heritage. She often opts for solid colors or simple prints, avoiding elaborate embellishments — reinforcing her grounded image.
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Tips for Powerful Dressing
- Avoid showing too much skin ; it can make you look delicate.
- Try to be well-groomed always, even if it takes short hair or securing your hair in a bun over a braid.
- Always wear clothes that fit you well, neither the oversized ones nor the tightly fitted ones ; they may make you feel uncomfortable.
- Make sure what you wear is well-ironed and looks clean.
- Confidence is the best outfit.
- Keep yourself healthy and indulge in some kind of physical activities and exercises.
- Keep it simple and comfortable. Subtle colors with small neckpieces will do the job.
- Follow Indian politicians and corporate achievers as they have attained a level of power dressing that can inspire you.
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Color Psychology for Power Dressing
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There are a few colors most preferred from the perspective of power dressing. You must have noticed women in authority wearing these shades.
Red: The red-bordered sarees and suits are very common with some whites as the base color. Red color shows dominance and passion.
Blue: Women dressed in shades of blue resonate trustworthiness. They show calm authority as leader. You would find many women in corporate dressing themselves in blue.
Black: Despite being a darker shade, it resembles power and elegance. Black color is significant in power dressing for women.
White: Women should make strategic choices before dressing themselves powerfully. White denotes purity and clarity.
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History of Power Dressing
The 1920s Chanel suit is where power dressing first appeared. The Chanel suit consisted of a tight skirt and a wool button-up jacket without a collar, typically featuring fitting sleeves, metallic buttons, and braid trim.
In terms of women’s fashion, this garment marked a sea change. In reality, it was the first professional suit made for a woman to wear comfortably in a modern–world feminine way. Using stereotypically male features to represent women‘s powerful side, yet allowing for a sleek and sophisticated presentation.
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Conclusion
Women‘s power dressing is much more than clothing. It‘s a powerful tool. In a corporate situation, it’s about projecting confidence, competence, and authority. If you learn this power style and create a positive business impact for yourself by learning the fundamentals and behaviors of power dressing and applying these principles to your personal style, the possibilities to create a positive impression in your job are limitless. Remember, the goal is not to dress like a stronger, more competent man – it‘s to dress like the stronger, more competent woman you are. It won’t matter what kind of company you are in. If you stay true to your femininity and dress professionally and exude strength and confidence, nothing can stop you.
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Shubhangi Gupta is a distinguished content writer and the visionary founder of The Unpleasant – Acha Nahi Sabse Sacha. With a Master’s degree in Commerce from University of Lucknow, Shubhangi has seamlessly blended her academic background with her passion for reading and writing, embarking on a successful career as a content writer since 2019.