How To Look Wealthy (Without Breaking the Bank)
Dress for the job you want. Mine is ‘RICH WOMAN.’
If you just want to shop: https://shopmy.us/rebeccarose/shelves
Listen carefully - the way you dress will affect the way people treat you. I mean this very seriously. Here’s a fun research paper on the psychology behind dressing well. But even without the stats, fundamentally we understand this.
We all form initial opinions within the first few seconds of meeting someone. Our brains are taking in a zillion cues, some that we are actively recognizing and some that are happening sub-consciously, to build The First Impression. That first impression can be hard to shake.
Then we come to personal style. This is something we all develop over time, even those who say they don’t care about fashion. You are making a choice every day when you put something on. Whether you choose to brush your hair or not. Whether you wear jewelry. Whether you wear crocs with socks or smart, shiny stilettos.
I remember walking on a major tech campus in California once. At the time, I was very interested to see the people responsible for one of the internet’s most powerful tools, and was taken aback by how many homeless people there were walking around on the pristine lawns of the company.
“They aren’t homeless,” my brilliant engineer sister said with a sigh, “they just think that if you dress up nicely, you’re not actually smart enough to be an engineer.” I stared at the mostly male employees shuffling about in flip-flops, old t-shirts with holes in them, and faded khaki shorts, silently declaring with their fashion choices that ‘we don’t care about fashion.’
But the truth is, they are also conforming to the group idea of style. They are dressing for the job. What you wear will always send signals. What signals do you want to send?
I want to send the signals that I am interesting, intelligent, capable, fun, sophisticated. I’d like my style to say that I’m worth the attention. I believe that developing your personal style should be an enjoyable process. You do not need to have buckets of money. You just need time, thought, and test-runs. Here is what I do to dress like a wealthy woman - wealthy in health, wealthy in love, wealthy in opportunities.
Try Everything.
I knew a guy who refused to switch from skinny jeans to wide leg because he had been wearing skinny jeans since the 90s. After finally being convinced and wearing his first pair of wide jeans out in public, he got compliments right away. ‘Wow, you’re mixing up your style! I like it.’ ‘Did you do something different? You look really good today.’ Etc. etc. I smugly watched him as the realization set in. He had not changed his hair, his tops or his shoes. Just his jeans. Now that the first barrier has been broken down, we can try some different tops, too. Just Try Things Out.
Look At Material
There are all kinds of fabrics and materials used to make clothing. Some are much better than others. Some serve specific purposes. Learning the differences will elevate your style. Here’s a great introductory breakdown of common fabrics.
Clothes that is made well and uses good fabric is just going to look better, even if it doesn’t always allow for all the trendy patterns or shapes. Don’t get sucked in by fast fashion. Better to have a few items of good quality, than a thousand pieces that are going to fall apart tomorrow.
Wear To Your Body Type
I’m a 5’9 and a half bean-pole with a 34in inseam leg, wide hips and a short torso. It’s a wonderful combination for modeling when getting styled professionally and a horrible combination for shopping in the regular world. If you look into fit modeling, you’ll learn why some brands seem to suit certain heights and body shapes; they are designing their clothes to the body of fit models who have very specific measurements. So some clothes that is very flattering on one person might not look good on you. This is where the Try Everything Rule is useful.
Sort out what looks good on your body type. Take note of which brands suit you. You must be discerning and learn to appreciate your own figure first. And if you are unhappy with your figure, see what you can do in your own control with exercise and healthy eating habits. Wear clothing that fits you; don’t try to fit yourself into a piece of clothing.
Tailoring Will Take You Far
Look at men’s suits in the 50s. Even the most ordinary people strolling around in the streets have undeniable charisma. The tailoring of clothes was done differently back then. There was less mass production and more clothes designed for individuals. Buying clothes made of good fabric at a significant discount and then spending extra on having it tailored (or learn to do it yourself) is often worth the money for more important pieces.
Accessorize Wisely
What neckline am I wearing? Where do I want attention drawn to? Would a belt add some panache or just split my body in half? Where am I going? All questions that determine the sort of accessories to wear. One good accessory can change a whole look. Coco Chanel’s pearls, Grace Kelly’s headbands, Michael Jackson’s sequined glove, Sherlock Holmes’ smoking pipe. Such simple things that make such strong impressions.
Hygiene and Health
I will be the first to admit - I love teeth. I don’t necessarily mean white, straight, even teeth; I just love healthy teeth that look good on a person’s face and fits their smile. I always notice teeth.
Here are some classy things anyone can do: wash well, style your hair, have excellent hygiene, smell good, keep your nails neat. A simple outfit, a spritz of nice perfume and light makeup on healthy skin? You’re leagues above someone with brand-tagged clothes and bad breath.
Ultimately, it’s confidence.
Like yourself. Take care of your body and health. Be interested in the world around you. Accept compliments with grace. Walk with your head up and shoulders back. All of these traits are free.
