SS 36: The Power of Focus Dressing

2025, a new year, a fresh start—yet it’s January 30th, and I am already noticing how the month is coming to a close and thinking about where my attention and focus have been.

We live in a world that is shifting rapidly—politically, socially, & environmentally. In DC, the government transition is palpable. The Israel conflict and ceasefire remain fragile, and my heart is with Southern California, where devastating fires have hit close to home.

For those who don’t know, I moved from South America to Southern California for college, and the affected areas were practically in my backyard. I’ve found a way to help, and I encourage you to do the same—it’s a mitzvah, a good deed.

Moments like these remind me how much the external world shapes us—but also how much power we have in shaping our own inner world. Amid the uncertainty, the decisions we make—about our mindset, our focus, and even how we present ourselves—matter more than ever.

And that brings me to a seemingly simple but surprisingly complex question: What do I wear?

This idea of focus applies to more than just big-picture decisions—it shapes the small, daily choices we make as well. Take getting dressed, for example. Can what you wear be a focused choice?

As a stylist, I stay attuned to what other experts—stylists, influencers, fashion editors—are saying. Yet, I often find something missing. Many offer perfected formulas and ready-made answers. I offer something different: questions.

True power doesn’t come from following someone else’s rules. The real transformation happens when you uncover what matters most to you—crafting a style that reflects your story, values, lifestyle, and goals, as well as your unique color palette and body design.

That’s where my Styling Framework comes in. It brings clarity and intention to getting dressed, turning it into a seamless extension of your personal and professional presence.

I use this approach with my C-suite and organizational women leaders to help them show up with confidence, authenticity, and impact.

Getting dressed isn’t just about choosing an outfit—it’s about setting the tone for your day, aligning your presence with your intentions, and making choices that reflect who you are.

Before you open your closet and reach for your clothes, I invite you to close your eyes, take a breath, and ask yourself the following seven questions.

Use my answers as a guide, then make them your own.

1. What is the weather?
   59°F / Below 60°F, I need a coat and a jacket.

2. What am I doing?
   I am delivering a pitch presentation to a potential new client.

3. Where am I going?
   New York City, at their headquarters.

4. Who is my audience?
   A panel of senior executives who are highly experienced, results-driven, and looking for innovative solutions.

5. How do I want to feel?
   I want to feel light (since I tend to sweat under pressure), comfortable, polished, confident, and in command while showing my femininity.

6. What message do I want to convey?
   My company and team are the most qualified, well-prepared, and genuinely excited to take on this opportunity.

7. What colors do I want to wear?
   I want my colors to convey authority, intelligence, and warmth. Blue or dark green are ideal choices, complemented by select prints for added personality. And if you’re unsure of your best color palette, investing in a color analysis can be a game-changer—it brings clarity and elevates your style effortlessly.

Once you have answers to these questions, you can start narrowing down your options by asking:

• What’s a favorite piece that I love to wear for these types of meetings?
  One of my clients swears by a particular dress style—structured on top like a button-down shirt, flowing into a pleated skirt. It makes her feel both powerful and feminine, a combination that perfectly aligns with how she wants to present herself as a law firm partner in Washington, D.C.

“Grace’s Dress” - Shoes, Dress, Tote, and Blazer by Tory Burch. Earrings: Marco Bicego

• What’s a signature piece that defines you?
  For Christine Lagarde, it’s her scarves. For Madeleine Albright, her brooches. For me? My belts.

One of my favorite belts is the one above. The turtle is a symbol of perseverance, longevity, and protection.

From the way you show up in your career to the way you step into each day, being intentional and focused—about your mindset, your energy, and yes, your clothes—shapes how you move through the world.

World leaders don’t waste effort on endless options; they hone in on what works, what strengthens their presence, and what helps them move forward with clarity.

So the next time you stand in front of your closet, don’t just think about what to wear—focus on how you want to show up and the impact you want to make. Because style isn’t just about clothing. It’s about presence, confidence, and the mark you leave behind.

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Explore my bespoke styling services at www.susanaperczekstyling.com