YouLookFab Forum » Topic: What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:46:06 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Penny on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1783824 Fri, 03 Mar 2017 16:40:26 +0000 Penny 1783824@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Insightful comment from Viva - it can be about conveying authority to yourself, as well as others. I also like dark colors, a blazer, high heels, and defined brows, as well as a classic watch. viva on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1783634 Fri, 03 Mar 2017 01:13:43 +0000 viva 1783634@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ In general, I agree with the formulas being described here: simple classic lines, preparation, polish. I love your idea of a scarf, and I use bold lipstick this way too. It's funny, but sometimes I need to convey authority to myself. Today is the last day of about 9 days on the road, and I am feeling ragged -- and at the same time, feeling some internal pressure to up my game a bit. So before I met my clients for work, I ran into JCrew and bought this jacket. It made me feel more energetic and powerful, which I really needed, frankly just to get through the day. Mary Beth (formerly LBD) on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1783488 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 19:32:55 +0000 Mary Beth (formerly LBD) 1783488@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Echoing Angie and the other ladies:   polish, posture, presence.   I make sure my grooming is impeccable (or as close to it as I can get).   Clean lines.  High heeled, close-toed simple pumps, hair pulled back, pencil skirt.   I think of Robin Wright's character, Claire Underwood, in 'House of Cards'.  Regarding 'presence':   something my acting teacher once told me, when I was doing a monologue of a very butch character:   "Leave a footprint, and claim your space when you walk.   Walk like you're leaving footprints".   It was useful for the character, and it is useful in real life, when I've had to stare down someone who tried to harrass or intimidate me. Angie on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1783420 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 15:47:31 +0000 Angie 1783420@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Polish, posture, a jacket and heels. CLOSED toes.  Have you thought of a gillet?  Style Fan on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1783340 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 10:49:26 +0000 Style Fan 1783340@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Whenever I had to run an important family meeting or family educational workshop I would wear polished makeup (eye and lips), gold hoops, one of my good blazers, great fitting pants and a touch of red.  It might be some red in my top but I always wore red.  I felt red gave me authority. The pediatrician I worked with always wore some red too for the same reason.  We didn't plan it but when we realized it we knew we were on the same wavelength. Sammy Gregory on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1783298 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 04:23:06 +0000 Sammy Gregory 1783298@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ If I don't wear a suit with a blazer then I wear a knee length business professional dress, cardigan, and pumps or knee length boots. krishnidoux on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1783262 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 02:04:29 +0000 krishnidoux 1783262@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I check my décolleté: is it too open? I close it. (First and most important detail). I check my skirt lenght: is it too short? I change for a pencil. I check my shoes: are they too uncomfortable looking? I swap for flats or cuban heels.  I check my hair: is it all over the place? I tame them somehow.  It reminds me that last week me and hubby went to visit contractors for a house reno. The administrator at the agency trotted around wearing a slightly over-the-knee skirt suit with... get this... heeled Richelieus and knee high wool socks! The effect was all and all very  acceptable, but I couldn't decide weather this lady was extremely fashion advanced or just completely out of it. When we walked out, my husband said, "I don't know why, I just know this woman runs the place..." and I believe him. But I think it was mostly a question of attitude, not of footwear. (although her footwear made quite the impression). But now we secretly refer to her as Ilsa, She Wolf of the SS (!!!).  tulle on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1783205 Wed, 01 Mar 2017 22:52:11 +0000 tulle 1783205@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Because I'm short, some kind of heel--even 2 inches--is essential when I want that authoritative edge.  Three inches (very doable with a slightly platformed sole) gets me to "average" height, and I love that.  Beyond shoes, an outfit that is well-made, expensive-looking, fairly current, and completely comfortable helps a lot. If I can manage to have two of these uniforms in my closet--one for warm weather and one for cold--I feel confident. anchie on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782344 Mon, 27 Feb 2017 19:56:59 +0000 anchie 1782344@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ For me it is 3 P - polish, posture and presence. Sisi on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782276 Mon, 27 Feb 2017 16:00:35 +0000 Sisi 1782276@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think you did very well. For me it is hair pulled up, a jacket, pretty shoes, only real jewelry, classic nail polish.  Eliza on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782273 Mon, 27 Feb 2017 15:51:51 +0000 Eliza 1782273@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Structure executed in a non-fussy way works for me, as does wearing quality footwear that is buffed up. I want to look like whatever is going on matters to me. A blazer or vest/gilet can add that structure and polish. Agree that it helps that the outfit feels like you (even if you is usually more casual), and that how you carry yourself matters.  Suz on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782266 Mon, 27 Feb 2017 15:39:04 +0000 Suz 1782266@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ For me it is a blazer, but if you can't do that, then I agree about a collared shirt. Another option is a sheath dress in a fabulous solid colour -- red or blue maybe.  cindysmith on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782139 Mon, 27 Feb 2017 03:05:52 +0000 cindysmith 1782139@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ It has to be comfortable; I can't feel confident if I'm fidgety. When I was part of the audio production company that provided equipment and services for the historic theatre, we often dressed in much dressier/more formal clothes than one would expect from stagehand types. We wanted to make the distinction so that the touring crews knew we weren't labor and they needn't bother asking us to schlep their roadcases in from the trucks and they had to share their local laborers with us because we weren't schlepping our own roadcases in from our trucks. My bosses would wear suits or dress pants with dress shirts and dress shoes, and I would wear dress pants with a nice blouse or sweater and really high heels. My life is much more casual these days. When I need to present as more authoritative these days, dark colors and expensive shoes are my go-to. April on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782121 Mon, 27 Feb 2017 01:23:18 +0000 April 1782121@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I agree with everything that has already been said and will add this: get some feedback on your voice/speech.  If you don't already know how you sound, see if you can find out from people who will feel comfortable being honest with you.  (It's a matter of your vocal tone, your accent, your volume, and other speech patterns that speech people know about and I don't.)   Wardrobe is critical, but you can undo the wardrobe choices pretty quickly once you open your mouth.  (Sorry.) UmmLila (Lisa) on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782120 Mon, 27 Feb 2017 01:21:52 +0000 UmmLila (Lisa) 1782120@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ A blazer and heels do it for me. However, L'Abeille, I like your idea of a collared stripe shirt with a touch of red as a stand-in for the blazer. If you can get the sort of shirt that is tailored in a bit at the waist, I could see it looking enough like a jacket. I have noticed that pinstripes are a bit of a trend for spring this year. If I see a shirt of the sort I have in my mind, I will add a find. Sal on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782119 Mon, 27 Feb 2017 01:18:25 +0000 Sal 1782119@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Either a jacket over a dress, or a jacket and pants.  Flat or very low heeled shoes.  And a confident attitude. For me it is the preparation that is important - do I have my ipad or notebook and a pen handy, am I sure my lipstick is not on my teeth, am I prepared for the situation I am facing. Gaylene on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782116 Mon, 27 Feb 2017 01:12:58 +0000 Gaylene 1782116@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Good posture, minimal jewelry, strong shoulders, darker colors, excellent fit, and a slim leather portfolio instead of a handbag. And, most of all, shoes which let me stride into a room. I'm also all about how I enter the room. If I need to take charge, I walk in, survey the room, make eye contact with those already there, smile briefly, and remain standing without saying anything for a few seconds. Then I move in to shake hands or move to the front of the room. Entering the room like this seems to negate any informality associated with my outfit. It's really about expressing confidence in yourself and what you need to do... rachylou on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782109 Mon, 27 Feb 2017 00:39:56 +0000 rachylou 1782109@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Oh dear. I really have a complex calculus for this, but the short answer is solid navy or charcoal. Doesn't matter what. White is also possible, but I don't think it applies in as many places. In rare, non standard arenas, possibly a dark forest green. But the exact shade, the deepness and clarity of these non-colours can put you in different categories of power. Reckless raider or deep government, titular authority or actual shot caller. Also, I distinguish between star power and real power. Attracting attention is a fairly weak form of power. The Face is never in charge. Ledonna N. on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782103 Sun, 26 Feb 2017 23:15:46 +0000 Ledonna N. 1782103@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Earings necklaces or a bracelet or ring. I will pop on a headscarf also jill58 on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782097 Sun, 26 Feb 2017 22:11:08 +0000 jill58 1782097@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ On the type of day that you described, I would bring along a blazer to wear during the conference. For me a blazer would be fairly critical. A sweater of any type would not give me the same sense of authority.  Also, heels, minimal jewelry and a good watch would also be important, at least during the conference portion. I am 5'5" and a bit of a heel always gives me more of a sense of command.   Anonymous on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782077 Sun, 26 Feb 2017 20:17:34 +0000 Anonymous 1782077@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Blazer, heels, proper lipstick , classic jewellery.   Rambling Ann on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782063 Sun, 26 Feb 2017 19:53:00 +0000 Rambling Ann 1782063@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Strong shoulders, expensive jewelry, serious shoes. And posture most of all. Janet on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782061 Sun, 26 Feb 2017 19:48:18 +0000 Janet 1782061@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Structure and a little bit of polish. A tailored jacket or blazer, for example, and pieces with impeccable fit. A simple color palette, and careful, restrained use of prints. Nothing sloppy-oversized, floaty/drapey, romantic or overly embellished. I would use accessories very carefully and err on the side of going more minimalist with accessories. Anonymous on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782060 Sun, 26 Feb 2017 19:47:23 +0000 Anonymous 1782060@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am similar to KKards.  Comfort.  My clothes can't wear me.  They must disappear from my mind entirely.  I make a point being conscious as to where my body is in space.  I try to take up space in the room.   I used to wear skirted suits, but the comfort thing was lost.  Then I wore blazers with slacks, but blazers became too hot.  Now I am at a loss as to what to wear.  Thank goodness, I haven't had to wear anything too authoritarian in a while.  Staysfit on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782044 Sun, 26 Feb 2017 19:20:20 +0000 Staysfit 1782044@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I make sure to wear makeup and emphasize my eyes. Then I make good eye contact. It's amazing how well it works. I'm not big on too much, just some eyeliner and mascara is enough to do the trick. Also, hand gestures! It's amazing what they can do to up your presence. kkards on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782041 Sun, 26 Feb 2017 19:12:49 +0000 kkards 1782041@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ For me, it has to be clothing that I feel comfortable in.... Both physically and emotionally. I have to be able to sit without worrying and stand without tugging. I personally prefer clothing that gives me the allusion of looking bigger than I really am. This dates back to a study thst I heard about inthe 90s that talked about how taller people got promoted & payed more... L'Abeille on "What do you wear when you want to add an edge of authority?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-do-you-wear-when-you-want-to-add-an-edge-of-authority#post-1782034 Sun, 26 Feb 2017 18:51:16 +0000 L'Abeille 1782034@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ This question was inspired by the threads on power suits and on avoiding the "nice" look, but in a different enough direction that I think it warrants a separate thread. Also it's inspired by Angie's thread last week about square scarves. Here's my twisty logic: I don't/can't wear blazers, although I love them, because I cover my outfit with a white coat at work, and the triple sleeve layer is just too warm and too awkward. I still often embrace the third piece in the form of a sweater vest or gilet, or a cardigan or scarf. Last week I had a daytime ER shift so I dressed for comfort in black Ponte skinnies and a white pinstriped shirt. At the last minute I recalled I also had to chair a family conference, so I needed to add a soupçon of She-who-must-be-obeyed. Without time to rethink the whole outfit, I grabbed a large silk square (with red well-represented) and double-tied it around my neck in a fashion known to preppies everywhere. And spent extra time on my eyebrows (an epiphany recorded on YLF previously, when I watched Julianne Moore in the 3rd Hunger Games movie play a Strong Fearless Leader with long grey hair but great eyebrows). I think it worked. Do you have any secrets or tweaks?