You may want to give a little more attention to how you dress at work because what you wear may be substantially influencing your career path. Although nothing takes the place of talent, hard work, innate ability and ambition, looking your professional best in the workplace can give you a competitive advantage.

Power dressing does not mean wearing expensive clothing. Nor does it mean being someone you’re not. It simply means dressing in a way that projects an image of the sophisticated, successful working individual you are or would like to become. We all know that true personal power comes from within.  However, keep in mind that it can be developed, enhanced and honed. Your body language is significantly affected by the clothes you wear. For instance, if you are in an elegant, tailored suit, you’re probably more likely to stand up straighter, look people in the eye and offer a firm handshake than if you are in jeans and a t-shirt. By entailing the use of empowering clothing, your body language automatically shifts and a sense of power emerges.

Do not underestimate the importance of non-verbal communication, which accounts for the bulk of the overall message you communicate to the world. Since people are highly visual creatures, it makes sense to maximize the potential use of a successful image. So long as you remember that an exquisite dressing style is only a compliment to professional competence and a strong work ethic rather than a substitute, power dressing at work can be a great tool to help you get ahead in corporate culture.

Dress for the job you aspire to, not the one you already have. Whether you are looking for a job or wanting a promotion, take inspiration from the executives whose level of achievement you’d like to reach at some point. Dressing like you’re in a higher position may allow your boss to subconsciously assume that you can take on more responsibilities and fill the shoes of someone higher up on the ladder.

Even in this age of casual chic, it is important to realize that relaxed dress may translate into relaxed standards, a relaxed work ethic and relaxed productivity. So what is business attire and what should you have in your wardrobe?

Here are a few essentials: Slacks in neutral colors, a straight skirt hemmed just below the knee, a fitted dress, a cardigan, a crisp white shirt, a classic coat in black or grey and a basic black, comfortable pump. Understated jewelry that is tastefully worn, such as a single favorite bracelet or necklace, can be a great asset to your outfit. Try to avoid dangling earrings unless they are small. Wearing a jacket to work suggests authority, as does carrying a well-made leather handbag. If you are considering buying a new suit, stick to solid colors or small prints.

These basic items should help you get started and give you a slight edge at the office, but remember, you should never compromise who you are for your professional image. At the end of the day, you’re the one who has to be happy with the way you look and feel, in and out of the workplace.