First impressions count.  You may not like to hear it, but the fact of the matter is that they do.  So, if you need to seriously impress in your next client meeting, or are just gunning for an internal promotion, it’s time to put your best foot forward and dress for the occasion.  Power dressing is a skill.  But, to achieve sartorial dominance in the boardroom, we’ve found some simple changes that will take you to the next level of office attire.  Start thinking big, bold and bombastic — and you’ll be a well-tailored tycoon in no time. 

Break up your outfit with a bold tie

Reddish colours have been proved to be an extremely powerful psychological tool.  Conveying power, strength and energy, a bold red or pink tie is a vital part of your power dressing ensemble.  We love these choices in pink from Hermes and Emma Willis, perfect for those looking to exude control without coming across as overpowering.  Or, if you’re looking for something with a little more decoration, opt for this red floral option from Hackett. 

Emma Willis Cashmere tie £140 Buy Now Hackett Floral print silk tie £80 Buy Now Hemès H tie £165 Buy Now

More is more when it comes to double breasted jackets

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again; double-breasted is a daring look, but one ideal for any man who’s out to impress.  And this classic sartorial statement will never go out of fashion — whether you’re donning your double breasted jacket in the boardroom or aboard your yacht.  This option from Hackett has a serious just-off-the-boat feel thanks to its metallic buttons and smart navy colour.  Or go for this business-ready hopsack blazer from Gieves & Hawkes.  Alternatively, take your tailoring to the next level and widen those lapels even further for an extra power push with a bespoke option from Clements & Church. 

Hackett Navy double breasted blazer £550 Buy Now Gieves & Hawkes double breasted navy hopsack blazer £595 Buy Now Clements & Church blue check jacket £1,500 Buy Now

Pull on a statement with bright socks

Socks may not be your first thought when it comes to power dressing, but the devil really is in the details when it comes to this sort of thing.  Your socks are usually off the radar; hidden and bought in a bland, forgettable colour.  But embolden things with a bright, block hue and that flash of colour will scream that you mean business.  The London Sock Co have been creating fantastic socks for six years now, and these Masters Green socks are perfect now that Tiger’s won his fifth blazer.  Alternatively, the blue of these Pantherella socks is a deep, eye catching tone, and Oliver Spencer’s orange options offer a fiery feel. 

Oliver Spencer Miller cable-knit socks £20 Buy Now Pantherella Danvers socks £12 Buy Now London Sock Co Masters green socks £12 Buy Now

Sharpen up with a pinstripe suit

They’re not just for bankers anymore.  In fact, the bombastic pinstripe is the epitome of power dressing in all its forms.  Those thin white stripes may be subtle, but they elevate the plain navy suit to another level of class and confidence you usually can’t find on the rack.  The streamlined silhouette of this suit from Hackett is amplified through its pinstripes.  Or, for an Italian twist on sartorial proceedings, this broad chalk stripe from Brunello Cucinelli offers pomp and style in equal measure.  And again, if you want to take things one step further, go bespoke at Savile Row’s Henry Poole. 

Hackett stripe wool suit £825 Buy Now Brunello Cucinelli wide chalk stripe suit £3,160 Buy Now Henry Pool bespoke suit Buy Now

Don’t dial things back when it comes to watches