Dressed to Influence

How Fashion Shapes Perception and Personal Power

By Jennifer Heinen | Fashion Psychologist & Podcast Host

We often hear the phrase “perception is reality”, but rarely do we stop to consider just how much of that reality we control — simply by getting dressed.

In this episode of the Style My Mind podcast, I spoke with the fabulous Stella Leo — a content creator, fashion PR veteran, and image strategist — about the power of fashion in shaping identity, influencing perception, and rewriting personal narratives. Our conversation was more than inspirational; it was a blueprint for how anyone can use fashion as a tool for empowerment, visibility, and alignment with their future self.

But beneath the stories and style tips lies something deeper: fashion psychology. A rich field of research supports what many of us intuitively feel — that how we dress doesn’t just reflect who we are, it affects who we are, how others treat us, and what opportunities come our way.

Let’s unpack that, shall we?

Meet Our Guest for This Episode

Stella Leo, known online as Stylishly Stella, is a former luxury fashion PR and marketing executive turned full-time lifestyle content creator, image strategist, and style muse. With over 14 years of experience in brand storytelling, Stella has worked behind the scenes at New York and Paris Fashion Weeks for top-tier names like Carolina Herrera, Badgley Mischka, and Moroccan Oil — curating everything from celebrity brand partnerships to visual campaigns.

But Stella’s magic lies in her ability to bridge luxury and accessibility. Now a sought-after voice in the world of digital style, she empowers women to celebrate the everyday through intentional fashion, playful creativity, and a touch of glam.

As a mom, multi-hyphenate professional, and authentic storyteller, Stella shares not just outfits — but confidence, identity, and joy.

You can follow her inspiring and entertaining content on Instagram @stylishlystella or visit her site at stylishlystella.com.

The Science Behind “Dressing the Part”

Fashion psychology research has consistently shown that clothing influences both how others see us and how we see ourselves. This phenomenon, known as enclothed cognition, refers to the systematic influence that clothes have on the wearer’s psychological processes. In a foundational 2012 study by Adam & Galinsky, participants who wore white lab coats (described as doctor’s coats) performed better on attention-related tasks than those who didn’t — even when the coat was identical but labeled as a “painter’s coat.” The mere meaning assigned to a garment altered cognitive performance.

Now imagine applying that principle to your everyday wardrobe.

Whether you're stepping into a boardroom, a creative brainstorming session, or a parenting role, the clothing you choose can subtly shift your behavior, confidence, and presence — and the way others respond to you.

Fashion as a Tool for Identity Navigation

As Stella beautifully put it, “Fashion is your tool. Use it to your advantage.” This goes beyond style—it’s about personal evolution. One of the most powerful moments in our conversation was her insight on life chapters:

“The fashion changes you make in each chapter of your life can help you adjust to your lifestyle… and create the image that you’re stepping into.”

Fashion isn’t just a reaction to change — it can create change.

A mother shifting from corporate life to stay-at-home parenting. A graduate transitioning into their first job. A woman in her 50s reclaiming glam and rejecting outdated rules. In each case, the wardrobe becomes a roadmap for reinvention.

According to fashion psychologist Carolyn Mair, PhD, this process aligns with self-verification theory — the idea that people strive for consistency between their internal self-concept and external appearance. Dressing intentionally helps synchronize identity and expression, which enhances well-being and authenticity.

From Closet Crisis to Personal Power

So, why do so many people hesitate to embrace fashion as a meaningful part of personal growth?

Stella offered a compelling framework: people often neglect their style because of a lack of knowledge, a perceived lack of time, or a rebellion against societal expectations. Sound familiar?

But here’s the thing — clothing is a low-barrier, high-impact entry point into transformation. Unlike therapy or career changes, it’s something you can experiment with immediately. A new silhouette. A bolder color. A pair of heels (or sneakers) that say “I’m ready.”

Tip: Start by curating outfits that make you feel the way you want to feel — strong, sensual, creative, calm. Then notice how others respond to that energy.

Social Media, Style Curation, and Strategic Authenticity

In today’s hyper-visual world, we’re not just dressing for the street — we’re dressing for the scroll. And that can feel overwhelming or inauthentic at times.

But authenticity doesn’t mean chaos. As Stella shared:

“My feed is the curated collection. My IG stories — that’s where you see the real me.”

This distinction is key. Psychologically, we all manage impressions (what psychologists call impression management), and that’s okay. It’s not about being fake — it’s about being intentionally transparent. You can have a curated brand identity and still show up as your raw self in the right spaces. Knowing when and how to share both is a skill rooted in self-awareness and alignment.

Shifting Mindset: Fashion as a Mirror of Self-Compassion

Stella and I both agree: the most empowering fashion rule is “Dress in a way that’s true to who you are — today.”

This mindset has deep roots in positive psychology. When you choose clothes that reflect acceptance, self-love, and respect for your body (at any size or stage), you’re practicing a form of self-compassion. This not only boosts self-esteem but helps interrupt negative self-talk and societal shame.

And guess what? That attitude is contagious. When you show up as your full, vibrant self — people notice.

Your Style, Your Power: The Final Challenge

Fashion isn’t frivolous. It’s functional. It’s emotional. And most of all, it’s psychological.

Whether you’re navigating a new chapter, battling imposter syndrome, or simply wanting to feel more like yourself again — your wardrobe can be the most powerful mirror you own.

So go ahead. Open that closet. And don’t just get dressed. Start curating.

# Style My Mind Challenge

This week, we challenge you to celebrate living! Here’s your challenge this week:

Celebrate the everyday with your outfit. Pick one day — even a mundane Tuesday — and choose a look that lifts your mood, sparks joy, or reminds you of your inner power.

Post it with the hashtag #StyleMyMindChallenge so we can celebrate you too.

Because the world needs your full presence — not your muted version.

Ensure to tag Stella and I, so we can share some love as well. Instagram Handles: @stylishlystella & @style.my.mind

What are the Key Takeaways?

1. Perception is Reality — and Fashion Shapes It.

2. Style Evolves with Life’s Chapters — and That’s a Good Thing.

3. Small Details Have Big Impact.

4. Social Media Is a Curation, Not a Mirror.

5. Your Style Is an Extension of Your Identity.

Thank you for reading!

Want to know more about Stella?

Follow her on her socials @stylishlystella 

Visit her website at stylishlystella.com

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If you want to watch the Episode: https://youtu.be/PZfw9No4s8M

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