I was recently interviewed, and one of the questions that came up had to do with female executives in the boardroom or in top managerial positions. The interviewer was looking for tips on how to choose colour and overall proper attire, to dress for success.

If you’re a woman in an executive or leadership role, or striving to be, you need to dress the part– especially if you’re new to the team or building your reputation. Here are 3 tips to help you achieve that:

1. Wear structured clothing with strong lines.

When you want to be seen as a leader, you must present yourself as someone who holds power. Structured clothing with strong lines elicits more power than clothing with softer lines and flowing fabric.

2. Wear fitted clothing.

Clothing that skims your body and fits well makes you appear more qualified and authoritative than loose, ill-fitting clothing(which just makes you appear sloppy, messy and doesn’t instill confidence).

3. Wear dark or bold colours or geometric patterns.

These colours and patterns are stronger and more commanding than soft, light colours and floral patterns. While this might seem like a subtle change to make, when you’re a woman in a lead position, or striving to be, every little bit helps.

To your success!