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How to Dress for Video Calls

Writer's picture: Devanshi AroraDevanshi Arora

The pandemic has changed so much about how we show up in work/business—hello, endless video calls and virtual meetings! If you're anything like me, you’ve probably spent countless hours on Zoom or Teams, all while trying to keep it together (and look professional!). 


In a world where first impressions are virtual, here are a few quick style tips to help you look and feel your best during those important video calls.


Choose Colors that Stand Out on Screen


how to dress for video calls

Your background and outfit should complement each other without blending. For a clear, polished look, choose colors that contrast with your background. If your background is plain, wear a bright or bold color that pops. If your background is busy, wear a solid hue that contrasts with it. This will make you more visible and memorable to your colleagues or clients.



Accessorise Wisely 


how to accessorise wisely

Since the visible area is limited to your head and torso adding a simple accessory like a pair of statement glasses, a wrist watch, a delicate neck chain, earrings or scarf can make a huge difference on camera without going overboard. Even a plain top can look intentional with a little something extra—and it only takes you under a minute.



Dress appropriately for the occasion


appropriate dress for video calls

If it’s a high-stakes meeting, it’s important to dress appropriately. Wearing a collared top/ shirt will  add formality to your look and make you appear more professional.  Even though it’s a virtual setting, dressing for the role sends a strong message. And yes, joggers below the frame always is a cozy option however, in my personal experience getting entirely dressed from head to toe psychologically puts one in a space from where you operate with more self-confidence and assertiveness.


Give attention to your hair & face


importance of doing your hair & makeup

Your face is on highlight during a video call and even if you’re not having a good hair day, there is still a little bit something you can do to make your hair look presentable on camera. A quick bun, ponytail for women, or a little gel for men to tame flyaway hair can add some polish to the overall appearance. Hair that’s neat, even if simple, makes a surprising difference in looking put-together on screen. Alternatively, putting on something(a scarf, a cap) to cover the hair may serve as an option, a style statement even!

Additionally, for the face people a dab of tinted lip balm, or hint of eyeliner can help brighten up your face and make you look vibrant as cameras tend to wash out the colors of your face, so it’s important to add some color back in.

These small touches make a big difference in looking more alert & present leaving a good impression (even when it’s a meeting marathon day!).


Add your signature thing


signature style

Use a “signature” accessory to enhance your personal brand and make a lasting impression. A signature item is something you wear or carry that sets you apart from the crowd, makes you memorable and casts a lasting impression on anyone who meets you. Your thing can be a colour that you always wear, a style you may repeat over and over, eg: bright shoes or hats or a watch or thick-rimmed glasses you always wear, a perfume, a lapel pin or brooch. It can be anything which is unique and reminds people of you.

For virtual meetings however, things like coloured shoes or signature perfume wouldn't be perceivable & hence don't make sense. But if you are looking to create a consistent image things like signature colour, eyeglasses, watches, even a lip colour can be a signature which makes you memorable in people's minds.


 

These are somethings I do before entering a virtual meeting. If you have something you do, I would love to read them in the comments. And, if you would like my help to upgrade your work wardrobe to create more impactful impressions, check out my Services and read how how I can help you curate and maintain a simple & systematic wardrobe to look and feel confident even with a demanding schedule.

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