While it might sound like it’s been lifted straight from Debrett’s etiquette guides, there is truth in the old adage, “the way you dress is the way you will be addressed”. What you wear doesn’t just reflect your personality, it shapes how people perceive you, how they interact with you and, arguably, how you see yourself.
Dubai is a city built on success, luxury, and more luxury. So, it follows that you shouldn’t treat your appearance just as an aesthetic, but as a strategy. It’s an advert for your identity, confidence and ambition.
This a convenient truism for a tailor, of course, but science supports our opinion. Hundreds of thousands of words have been written, pored over and discussed on the subject of ‘enclothed cognition’, which studies how the clothes we wear influence thoughts, feelings and behaviours. And that’s where the bespoke mindset comes in.
So, how can a bespoke mindset help boost confidence and success? Let’s take a look, gents.
The psychology of dressing
When we throw open those wardrobe doors every morning, we have a choice. It might not be the right one, but we are all indeed making a decision. You can choose to pull on an Italian cashmere jumper or the sweatshirt you wore to the gym yesterday – both take roughly the same amount of time, so why are you choosing the latter? It’s a statement of intent, even if you don’t realise it.
The clothes we put on are tools that have the power to shape our psychological state. The idea of ‘enclothed cognition’, which I touched on earlier, reveals that clothing associated with specific roles or traits can change the wearer’s mindset and performance. Wearing a lab coat, for instance, improved participants' attention and precision during the experiment.
This shows how our brains internalise cues from appearances. When we dress well or wear clothing that fits perfectly, we send signals to ourselves that boost confidence. So, our appearance influences our self-perception, which in turn shapes our behaviour.
It’s not a giant leap to argue that a bespoke suit can have a similar effect. In fact, research shows that people dressed in suits report feeling more powerful and focused. The psychological impact of this is a game-changer. It can lead to increased assertiveness, better decision-making and elevated social presence. Dressing with care often means performing better.
What is the bespoke mindset?
So, what exactly is a bespoke mindset and how does it apply to what we wear?
A bespoke mindset is a more intentional approach to dressing that is tailored and built to last. It prizes personalisation over mass production and drills down into the unique requirements, tastes and values of the wearer. It is the antithesis of the off-the-rack, one-size-fits-all approach we are all so used to.
At its heart, a bespoke mindset is all about being more deliberate and making conscious decisions about what you buy, how it is made and why it matters. So, that means investing in high-quality clothes that are guaranteed to stand the test of time, prioritising craftsmanship and emotional connection.
Ultimately, it means wearing something made with purpose and tailored entirely to you.
How does a bespoke mindset translate into tangible outcomes?
Dressing with a bespoke mindset reinforces your self-worth, sharpens your identity, fosters confidence and helps you feel more in control. Aligning your outward appearance with what you value and believe can help you feel more in control, authentic and, ultimately, more successful.
Immaculate tailoring communicates more than money; it shows that you pay attention to detail, that you care and that you are in control. These subtle cues can be the difference between being remembered and forgotten, especially in high-stakes situations like client meetings and boardrooms.
Countless studies have shown that people make judgments within seconds based on appearance. In a fast-paced, image-conscious environment like Dubai, we’ll wager it’s even quicker.
So what, you may ask, if a well-considered wardrobe projects authority and professionalism? What does that actually mean? Well, it’s all part of your personal brand. And if your brand signals to people that you are authentic and capable, it fosters trust, which can open doors.
What’s more, dressing in bespoke can change how you feel. When you wear something that fits you flawlessly, you stand a little taller, speak more clearly and engage more confidently. This can translate to stronger performance and better outcomes in high-pressure scenarios.
In a city like Dubai, where first impressions really do matter and the standards are extraordinarily high, dressing bespoke is not about vanity, but about sending the right signals.
Practical tips
So, chaps, how can you adopt a more bespoke mindset to elevate your confidence and boost personal and professional success?
- Curate your wardrobe
Don’t purchase in isolation, think about the big picture. That means building a versatile core wardrobe with timeless staples (neutral trousers, tailored jackets, etc.), and investing in fewer, better pieces to reflect your values. Consider fit and tailoring and make the effort to get to know your colour palette. Understanding which tones flatter you and building your wardrobe around this will help you to create a strong personal and professional brand.
- Invest in good tailoring
It is impossible to overemphasise the importance of a good fit. Even small tweaks can make a big difference. Two of the biggest giveaways of a poor fit are shoulder fit and sleeve length, so even if you’re not looking for a full suit, it’s worth visiting a trusted tailor to make those subtle adjustments.
- Prioritise good grooming
Even the best suits in the world can’t distract from gnarly fingernails. Poor grooming signals to the world that you don’t respect yourself. And if you don’t respect yourself, why should everyone else? Pair good clothing with good grooming – clean nails, well-kept hair and beard and fresh breath.
- Shop intentionally
When it comes to purchasing new clothes, a bespoke mindset does not allow for impulse purchasing. Shop with purpose, choose clothing and brands that align with your values and never settle for ‘close enough’. You need pieces that make you feel like the best version of yourself.
- The devil is in the detail
Please, do sweat the small stuff. Details like cufflinks, pocket square and fragrance will add depth and character, helping to reinforce your identity. Details demonstrate a refined eye, a trait admired in leaders. Plus, details imply that you have thought carefully about your appearance and therefore think carefully about your work and other responsibilities too.
Why the bespoke mindset matters
So there we have it, gents – a comprehensive guide to why and how a more bespoke mindset can help you succeed. In a fast-paced, image-conscious city like Dubai, first impressions carry considerable weight. Your approach to your image has an impact on your credibility, influence and, ultimately, success. Whether you’re navigating the boardroom or pitching a deal, your choices offer non-verbal cues that signal who you are and who you can be. Truly, if you’re looking to be respected and remembered, adopting the bespoke mindset is the only way to go.
At Ascots & Chapels, we’re here to help. Pop into any store for a personal consultation and advice on how to curate a wardrobe that works as hard as you do.
