How Working Women in position use it as a cover up and the Fashion Stigma

The rise of working women in leadership roles has been celebrated as a sign of progress. Yet, a curious trend is emerging, some women seem to use their positions not just to lead but as a shield or cover-up, masking insecurities or deflecting criticism. At the same time, the fashion choices of these women often become a topic of intense scrutiny, creating a stigma that blends power with appearance in complex ways. This post explores how power and fashion intersect for working women, and what this means for perceptions of authority and authenticity.

A woman in a sharp blazer standing confidently in an urban setting

Power as a Shield

Women in leadership often face pressures that go beyond their job descriptions. Unlike their male counterparts, they are frequently judged on their personality, appearance, and even their emotional responses. This environment can lead some women to use their position as a form of protection:

• Deflecting Criticism: Holding a high position can discourage direct criticism, allowing women to avoid uncomfortable scrutiny.

• Masking Vulnerability: Power can act as a barrier to hide doubts or insecurities, creating a persona that seems unshakable.

• Controlling Narratives: Women in charge may use their authority to shape how others perceive them, sometimes prioritizing image over substance.

  
  

This behavior is not unique to women, but the stakes feel higher due to societal expectations and gender biases.

Fashion as a Statement and a Stigma

Fashion has always been a tool for self-expression, but for working women in power, it carries additional weight. Their clothing choices are often interpreted as signals of competence, confidence, or even aggression. This creates a double bind:

• Too Formal or Too Casual: Dressing too formally can make a woman seem unapproachable, while dressing too casually might lead to questions about professionalism.

• Bold vs. Conservative: Bold fashion choices can be seen as empowering or attention-seeking, while conservative styles might be labeled as boring or lacking personality.

• The "Fashion Stigma": Women who use fashion to assert power sometimes face backlash, accused of using style as a cover-up rather than relying on their skills.

  
  

For example, a female executive who wears striking colors or unique accessories might be praised for confidence by some but dismissed as superficial by others.

The Fall Is Rising

The phrase "the fall is rising" captures the paradox many working women face. As they climb the ladder, the risk of a public fall grows, often amplified by the scrutiny of their fashion and behavior. This tension can lead to:

• Overcompensation: Women may overcompensate with their appearance or authority to avoid being undermined.

• Burnout: Constantly managing image and power can drain emotional and mental energy.

• Authenticity Challenges: Balancing genuine leadership with external expectations becomes a daily struggle.

  
  

This dynamic can create a cycle where women feel compelled to use their position as a cover-up, reinforcing the stigma around their fashion and leadership style.

Shilinia Hassin working woman and SH-Fashion Guide Owner/Founder also Fashion Blogger and Writer.

Practical Ways to Navigate Power and Fashion

Working women can take steps to balance their authority with authenticity, reducing the need for cover-ups and breaking down fashion stigmas:

• Own Your Style: Choose clothing that feels authentic and comfortable, not just what is expected.

• Set Boundaries: Use your position to create a culture where feedback is constructive and focused on work, not appearance.

• Build Support Networks: Connect with other women leaders to share experiences and strategies for managing pressure.

• Focus on Substance: Let your work and decisions speak louder than your wardrobe.

• Educate Others: Challenge stereotypes by openly discussing the challenges of being a woman in power.

  
  

Examples from Real Life

Consider the story of a CEO who faced criticism for her bold fashion choices early in her career. Instead of retreating, she embraced her style as part of her identity and used her platform to advocate for diversity in leadership. Over time, her authenticity won respect and helped shift perceptions about what a leader should look like.

Another example is a manager who initially used her position to deflect criticism but learned to engage openly with her team. She found that vulnerability and transparency strengthened her leadership far more than any cover-up could.

These stories show that power and fashion do not have to be at odds. When aligned with authenticity, they can reinforce each other.

Moving Beyond the Stigma

The conversation about working women, power, and fashion needs to evolve. Instead of judging women for how they look or how they wield authority, society should focus on:

• Recognizing Competence: Valuing skills and results over appearance.

• Encouraging Authenticity: Supporting women to lead in ways that feel true to themselves.

• Breaking Stereotypes: Challenging outdated ideas about gender and leadership.

• Promoting Inclusivity: Creating environments where diverse leadership styles thrive.

  
  

By doing so, the fashion stigma will lose its grip, and women in power can lead without the burden of cover-ups.

Final thoughts: I was listening to music when I started writing this article and it's one of my favorite songs of all time (Swedish House Mafia ft John Martin - Don't You Worry Child)