10 ways to ensure a professional visual image

Our clothes, how we wear them and our grooming, together send out significant clues about who we are and what we value. While ultimately, you'll need to back up a polished professional appearance with action, here are some dress actions to level up your visual professional presence.

LAYER UP: Except for outerwear, wearing at least two layers above your waist will increase your visual formality.

GO DEEP: The deeper or darker the colours you wear, the greater your visual authority.

COVER UP: The more skin you show, the less formal/professional you will be viewed. Bare arms and legs are becoming increasingly more acceptable. If the occasion is important err on the side of being covered.

MODESTY: While similar to 'Cover Up' modesty is also noteworthy. Cleavage revealing necklines and thigh high hemlines imply a desire to be sensual rather than professional.

IN TOUCH: Someone we are willing to trust is a person who is in-touch with current thoughts and methodologies, so keep your look current with fashion to add visual confidence.  And for anyone wondering, yes, the texture of a belt will dictate how formal or casual it is. So, business belts are smooth and polished while those that are more casual will be matte, rough or plaid.

CLASSIC TWIST: While a conservative image is the one most likely to tell the world your mind is on your work, this does not mean you can't add some flair or personality to your look. As long as it's not distracting, go right ahead.

FACE FOCUS: Ensure your outfit keeps the attention on your face, after all that's your main communication focus. So perfect a beautiful lip or eye focus and add some lovely earrings.

CONTRAST: Adding colour contrast between the garments or print above your waist can make a significant difference to how you are noticed, listened to and remembered. Medium contrast is the most effective.

STRUCTURE: Garments with tailored structuring instantly look more authoritative.

COLLARS: When it comes to raising a garment or outfit from casual to business, one of the most effective elements is a collar. This neck finishing item is an instant elevator.