What we wear contributes to how we show up

Fast Company

20 hours ago

At the Exceptional Women Alliance, we empower high-level women to mentor one another, encouraging personal and professional fulfillment through meaningful connections. This month, I am delighted to interview Marissa Andrada, culture master and kindness catalyst at the firm bearing her name. Marissa shares her valuable insights on all things fashion, empowerment, and the importance of self-expression in the workplace—why dressing confidently is about who you are, not just what you wear.
Q: How has your personal relationship with fashion evolved alongside your career growth?
Marissa Andrada: Early in my career, the companies I worked in had a 'power profile,' e.g. a language to use, a certain style of clothing to wear. I was coached to adapt to this power profile as a way of fitting in and making it. I felt like I could only show up as a small part of me and it impacted my ability to bring my full self to work. I had to carefully curate my outfits each day. Because I wasn't dressing authentically, it became exhausting to get ready every morning, overthinking how not to be 'too much.' However, navigating that phase taught me so much—it helped me to build resilience, reinforce my personal values, and deepen my understanding of how culture shapes belonging. Today, I intentionally create and advocate for cultures that embrace authenticity and celebrate individual style. I can now use my experience to empower others and help evolve workplace fashion norms and labels. I have seen firsthand the impact of connection through style and self-expression.
Q: Many people feel pressure to dress the part at work. What advice would you give someone trying to stay authentic while navigating professional expectations?
Andrada: If you are in a culture with a specific dress code that feels limiting, look for small and personally meaningful ways to express your individuality. For example, sport a pair of funky socks that only you can see, rock a statement ring, wear your favorite drop earrings, a cool watch, special belt, or your post-gym ponytail (sans Nikes). The key is to find little moments of joy and self-expression even within the boundaries of a formalized dress code. The small touches will remind you and those around you of who you are. Pro tip? Gamify the experience each day—have fun with it.
Q: In your experience, how does feeling good in what you wear impact how you show up as a leader?
Andrada: Oh wow, this is a great question because, when you show up for yourself, when YOU feel good, it radiates through everything you do—how you walk and carry yourself, how you talk and greet others, how you inspire those around you, and how you lead. Feeling good transforms your energy. Feeling confident in your appearance is not about aesthetics, it is about ownership and honoring yourself. When you can do that for yourself, it gives permission for others to do the same.
Q: How can organizations better embrace and support authentic self-expression through fashion in the workplace?
Andrada: It starts with leadership. Culture is a reflection of leadership. When leaders set the tone and lead by example, it has a ripple effect on the rest of the team and ultimately the organization. It is about values and outcomes, not conformity. When companies create true cultures of belonging, dress codes naturally evolve and allow more room for authentic self-expression. When employees feel seen, accepted, and empowered, they will perform at their best, and that includes how they express themselves through style.
Q: Who or what inspires your approach to fashion, style, and leadership today?
Andrada: I am inspired daily by life itself. Each day is a new opportunity for me to discover something or someone new, whether it's a new designer or a future business leader. My regular interactions always lead to new energy and inspire my approach to fashion, style, and leadership. I love the creativity of using what I wear as an extension of my energy. While I follow what's happening on the runway, I am equally inspired by street fashion. I love a high-low combo too as it reflects my perspective on leadership—being bold but remaining real. A touch of aspiration while being relatable and attainable.
Q: What advice would you give your younger self about fashion, work, and self-confidence?
Andrada: I would tell her that it will get easier and to continue to follow and lead with heart. Your style is an expression of you and your true spirit, and you should never have to hide that but embrace and celebrate it in the ways you can at any given moment. Confidence isn't about being fashionable, it's about being true to yourself.
Through Marissa, it's clearly visible that fashion isn't just about clothes, and if you saw her in person you would know what I mean! It is about confidence, identity, connection, and empowerment. Through style and spirit, we can create cultures of inclusion and vibrancy.