Fashion style creates soft power for women.

Fashion is a woman's silent language. Is investing in fashion for the workplace worthwhile? This question has become a topic of debate among many women, as their office environment has become so familiar that they no longer have the motivation to dress well.

Ms. Tran Thu Ha, 38 years old, a university lecturer and a stylish "Office Lady," has shattered this stereotype. She believes that dressing well is as essential as eating and drinking, not just for the sake of appearances but also as a way of showing self-respect. For her, fashion not only affirms style but also expresses the energy and inner freedom of a woman. Women's World had a conversation with her to better understand her way of life, her thoughts, and her feelings about life through fashion.

Dressing well is a way of respecting yourself.

+ Hello Ms. Ha, as a well-known Office Lady, how would you define fashion and its role in the journey of self-affirmation for the modern woman?

For me, fashion is not just about clothes or accessories, but a form of language where women can express themselves without words. It's a part of their lifestyle. In their journey of self-affirmation, fashion helps them express their perspective, energy, and inner freedom.

When choosing the right outfit, a woman is sending a message that she knows who she is and how she wants to be perceived. Therefore, fashion is a bridge between her inner self and her outward image, both a source of joy and a way to affirm her unique value.

If you were to summarize your own "fashion philosophy" in one sentence, what would you say?

"Style is the silent statement of a woman who knows who she is." And fashion is a woman's non-verbal language. It's a personal statement of the fairer sex. Each dress, each cut, each color is a way of expressing personality, mood, and values. A woman who chooses minimalism speaks of a philosophy of simplicity and confidence. A woman who prefers unconventionality expresses a desire for freedom and creativity.

+ In your opinion, does fashion style reflect a woman's personality and success? And what is most important: brand, trend, or self-confidence?

I believe so, but in a more subtle way than what we see. Style is a reflection of a woman's perception of herself, her work, and the world around her. When a woman truly understands what she wants, she usually has a consistent style that is understated yet impressive. Success, in my opinion, begins with the ability to understand and master oneself, and fashion is simply a way of expressing that outwardly.

Most importantly, I think it's confidence. Because brands can change, trends can pass, but confidence is what gives every outfit its soul. Dressing well, ultimately, is when your clothes harmonize with your inner self.

+ How do you define your fashion style, through experience, your profession, or your personal feelings?

Perhaps it's through everything, but personal feelings are still what guide me the most. Each stage of life brings a different state of mind, and my style subtly changes with that rhythm. My career has taught me what it means to be well-groomed, while experiences have shown me what makes me feel comfortable and confident. Ultimately, I still choose to dress according to my feelings, so that each day begins with a pleasant feeling, a sense of closeness to myself.

Style cannot be borrowed from someone else's wardrobe.

When appearing in public or in a workplace environment, what is an "essential element" of your style?

I always keep a small accessory for myself, perhaps a bracelet, a silk scarf, or delicate earrings. These items make me feel softer and more confident in a crowd. And most importantly, I always maintain a smile because I believe it's the most beautiful accessory a woman can wear.

In addition, I have an item that I consider a "symbol" of myself: my white shirt. I like its simplicity because it can be styled in many ways while still maintaining an elegant look. To me, that shirt symbolizes balance: between work and life, between reason and emotion.

+ In your opinion, what role does fashion play in helping women express soft power in the workplace?

I think fashion is a very subtle form of power, not expressed through words or status, but through the way a woman walks, communicates, and is present. A well-chosen outfit can make others sense her confidence and assertiveness, even before they've had a chance to talk. That's the power of "soft power."

Whenever I'm preparing for an important meeting or a new encounter, I always choose my outfit to send the message: "I'm serious, but I'm still being myself." For me, fashion is sometimes like a layer of energy, helping you enter any space with calmness and confidence.

What kind of fashion style should a successful woman choose to be both professional and feminine?

I believe that the more successful a woman is, the more understated and sophisticated her style should be. Professionalism is reflected in the silhouette, materials, and color combinations, while femininity comes from small details such as the drape of a dress, the feel of silk, or the soft sparkle of jewelry.

If you were to give advice to young girls who are looking for their own style, what would you say?

I would say, "Don't rush to follow trends, listen to yourself." Style isn't something you find in someone else's wardrobe, but a long journey of trial and error, and understanding yourself better each day.

For me, "beauty" is the feeling of peace when looking in the mirror and seeing myself living authentically with my emotions. When the soul is balanced, the eyes and smile will naturally convey that beauty to others. I dress well to understand myself better, and certainly not to please others.

Thank you for this interesting conversation!

Source: https://phunuvietnam.vn/phong-cach-thoi-trang-tao-ra-quyen-luc-mem-cho-phu-nu-20251114111046888.htm