1. Less is more
When it comes to accessories, the golden rule is to declutter. Use a shoulder bag, not too big and not too small, so that your hands are free. If you must remove your jacket or coat, drape it over your left arm so that your right hand is free to shake hands when introduced to someone.

2. Stop ‘saving’ clothes
Do you feel like a million dollars in that skirt you splurged on? Then wear it. Stop saving clothes for ‘best’. Similarly, do not wear something that brings back unpleasant memories. It is impossible to feel confident and exude positivity in something that reminds you of a horrible experience.

3. Play six questions
Octavia Ephraim, the founder of OctaPear Image Consulting, suggests asking yourself the following:

• What is the general range of colours you should wear?
• Which suits you better, silver or gold accessories?
• What neutral shades of colours should you build your wardrobe around?
• What are the colours that help you to light up when you walk into a room?
• White or ivory? You’ll be surprised how many women can wear one but not the other.
• Does black really do something for you? If not, don’t wear it.

4. Try a spot of colour therapy

• Red: Although red is touted as the colour of winners, it can come across as too aggressive. Rather use it strategically with a red handbag or scarf.
• Blue: Believe it or not, but blue (and purple) can do wonders for your self-confidence and lift your spirits. The darker the blue, the more feminine you will appear.

5. Always remember the basics

• There is such a thing as dressing overconfidently. This includes – or rather, excludes – plunging necklines, minis, bright colours and anything too flashy.
• Clothes should fit well. Feeling confident is as much about being comfortable as it is about being stylish.
• Grooming matters.

We’d love to know what you wear when you need to make a good impression. Which colours and styles give you confidence when you need it?

Share your Three Word Wardrobe at skip.co.za and you could win a R5 000 voucher from Spree! Click here.

Sources: Being Confident by Judi James, dailymail.co.uk, vogue.com, Octapear Image Consulting (octaviae.com, )