The accomplished, professional women I work with aren’t lacking intelligence, drive, or leadership.
What they do struggle with? Beliefs about style that were handed down, repeated, and internalized…until they feel like “truth.”
And here’s the thing: when it comes to professional style, Colorado women face a real challenge.
The culture here is casual, but leadership roles still demand polish.
This push-and-pull creates confusion, frustration, and wasted time every single morning.
Here are the top five beliefs I hear most often…along with what I know to be true after two decades of styling brilliant, high-achieving women.
Professional Style: 5 Beliefs Holding Colorado Women Back
Professional Style Belief #1: “Colorado is so casual.”
Absolutely! Colorado is casual.
But “casual” isn’t a style. It’s just a level of formality (that quite honestly isn’t right for every setting.)
When you dress down too much with the goal of fitting in, you’re selling yourself short!
And you risk blending into the background instead of standing out as the leader you are. (And can even look a little inappropriate in certain situations.)
Here’s the truth:
You CAN look approachable and polished.
You CAN walk into a room looking relaxed and ready.
“Casual” doesn’t have to mean jeans and hoodies/t-shirts!
I get it! If you’ve grown up a Colorado girl, it’s tricky! I help my clients find the balance between approachable and appropriate, so they feel confident without second-guessing.
Professional Style Belief #2: “Professional means suits, and boring, stiff, uncomfortable clothes."
Spoiler alert! “Professional” ISN’T a style. It’s a goal.
Your style should feel like you. Quirky? Feminine? Fun? Powerful? Elegant? Beautiful? …the possibilities are endless!
And all of those descriptors can still read as professional!
There are just a few guidelines to follow to make your whole look
Professional AND Feminine;
Professional AND Bold;
Professional AND Creative…whatever your style words are.
BONUS! You can also look professional and be comfortable to boot!
Professional Style Belief #3: “I don’t want to look like I’m trying too hard.”
This one is super common.
Most of the women who come to me want to be seen as polished… but not intimidating or overdone.
Here’s the truth: looking intentional doesn’t mean looking overdressed.
Even if you buy an entirely new wardrobe and show up for work in a completely new style, people will notice. And that’s O.K.
When we dial in your personal style and get it right, you’ll still look like you…and it would actually be pretty hard for you to look like you’re trying too hard!
Professional Style Belief #4: “At my age, I should know how to dress myself.”
Style isn’t a secret gene you either have or don’t. It’s a skill!
If no one ever taught you how to pick clothes that fit your body or reflect your personality, how would you magically know?
Most of my clients had moms who weren’t into style, grew up in families where money was tight, or were too focused on their careers to learn.
That doesn’t mean you missed your shot. You just missed your training.
But I have good news!
You can learn all about style NOW - with someone who makes it feel easy, personalized, and even… fun. (It’s me!)
Professional Style Belief #5: “Style isn’t a priority right now, I have too much going on.”
If this style belief feels like you…listen closely!
Stop telling yourself you don’t have time to deal with your wardrobe chaos.
The truth is… you don’t have time not to!
Think about it: the average woman spends 15 minutes every morning staring into her closet. That’s 1.7 hours a week. A full workday every month.
A wardrobe that’s designed to support you doesn’t take time away. It gives it back! And you get to look fabulous!
The Bottom Line
You’re so much more than outdated style rules or waiting until you “deserve” it.
When you let go of these limiting beliefs, you gain freedom…freedom to express your personality, make your mornings easier, and walk into any room knowing your clothes are amplifying your presence, not distracting from it.
Ready to See What’s Possible?
If these beliefs felt familiar, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to keep wrestling with your closet.
This is exactly why I created my 5 Must-Have Pieces (That Aren’t What You Think!) checklist. It’s a quick, practical tool to help you see your wardrobe differently and start creating one that feels like you.
Professional style in Colorado doesn’t have to mean boring suits or stress! You can project anything you want with clarity, confidence, and clothes that work as hard as you do!