Here are 3 easy steps to get you started…

Fix: Uplevel just one piece—elevate your jacket, shoes, or bag—and bring a whole new energy to your look. Or as they say, some serious boss energy.

You’ve heard the phrase, “Dress for the job you want, not the one you have.” It’s a cliché for a reason. Too often, we default to what’s familiar—what used to work or what feels easy.

Here’s the thing: style is self-expression. Dress for where you’re headed. Maybe you’re stepping into a new role. Maybe you’re just ready to be taken more seriously and elevate your personal brand. When your wardrobe reflects the life you’re creating—not the one you’ve outgrown—you move further, faster.

Remember: You don’t need a whole new wardrobe. Making one intentional upgrade at a time can make a big difference.

how to dress for the job you want, not the one you have. Shelley golden personal branding image consultant and the best to elevate your image

Structure sets the tone. 
A well-cut jacket defines your shape and your message. It adds instant polish and says, “I’ve got this.”

It works (almost) everywhere.
Presenting to a client? Leading a meeting? Grabbing coffee with a potential partner? A jacket over a tee or simple blouse elevates your outfit, without making it look like you tried too hard (even if you did).

It makes you memorable.
A great jacket says, “I take myself seriously—and I hope you do, too.” That kind of presence lingers, even after you’ve left the room.

For women:  It helps you take up more physical space to appear more authoritative and powerful.

Try this.
Reach for a blazer in a bold color, textured fabric, or standout cut. It adds edge, confidence, and direction in one move—no full outfit change required.

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how to dress for the job you want, not the one you have. Shelley golden personal branding image consultant and the best to elevate your image

They speak before you do.
Shoes are one of the first things people notice, making them one of the easiest ways to convey an elevated look. A clean, well-chosen pair—whether truly expensive or just looks it—signals success, confidence, and attention to detail.

They pull it all together.
You can wear the simplest outfit—a white shirt and jeans—and if your shoes are elevated, the whole look feels elevated and intentional. When your shoes align with your image, they reinforce your brand from the ground up.

They show self-respect.
Wearing high-quality shoes tells the world you invest in yourself. They don’t have to be expensive—just clean, polished, and well chosen.

Try this: Look for sculpted-heel booties, pointed-toe flats, polished loafers, classic pumps in black or red (be bold!), or fresh classy looking sneakers.

Ensure your shoes are well-maintained, professional, and aligned with your overall vibe. For men, a pair of brown leather shoes or leather sneakers can instantly elevate even the most basic look.

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how to dress for the job you want, not the one you have. Shelley golden personal branding image consultant and the best to elevate your image

Finishes the look.
A great bag is like an exclamation point—the emphasis that makes your outfit feel complete. It’s one of the first things people notice, and when your bag looks like it belongs in the room, you will too.

Signals status, not flash.
You don’t need a logo to make an impression. A clean, well-made bag—structured leather, bold color, or minimalist design—quietly says, “I have standards.” It suggests you’re put together, intentional, and, yes, probably crushing it.

Reflects who you are.
Your bag isn’t just practical—it’s personal branding. Are you classic and understated? Creative and bold? Efficient and modern? The bag you carry tells the world how you move.

Try this: You don’t need ten. You need one beautiful bag that works with most of your wardrobe and tells the right story—yours.

PS: When your bag starts to look worn at the edges, it’s time for a new one.  

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The Ultimate Power of One
You don’t need a whole new wardrobe—you only need smart pieces that pull their weight. A jacket with presence, shoes that speak up, a bag that closes the deal. Upgrade one thing, and the rest tends to follow (including how you feel when you walk in the room).

“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.”  Rachel Zoe