Let us talk about the unspoken rules of what we wear. I still laugh when I think about a particular night in New York City. I had managed to grab some last minute TKTS bargain tickets in Times Square for Bombay Dreams on Broadway. It was one of those classic tourist moments. I rolled into the theater wearing shorts, flip flops, and a completely casual shirt. I was just ready to enjoy some Bollywood meets Broadway magic.
Then I looked around. The rest of the audience looked like they were stepping out of a Gatsby party. We are talking sharp suits, elegant little black dresses, and enough jewelry to blind the performers on stage. The lights dimmed, and there I was, knees proudly on display, fully appreciating the theater air conditioning. The gentleman in the tuxedo next to me was definitely whispering to his date, probably wondering if a tourist got lost on the way to the beach.
But that is the beautiful thing about the United States, especially a massive city like New York. People might give you a quick side glance, but then they shrug and go right back to their own lives. There is an amazing lack of judgment. In many other places, I would have received a death stare or a polite suggestion from an usher to leave. But there, the show went on, the music was fantastic, and I walked out humming the tunes without a single care.
I have definitely evolved since those chaotic tourist days. When I travel now, I make it a point to pack strategically. I clearly distinguish between my work clothes and my clothes for after hours. I have found that you are actually a lot more approachable if you aim for the middle ground with your outfit. Keep it smart, comfortable, and relaxed. Unless you are planning to make a wild Grammy red carpet entry, finding that middle ground removes friction and makes people more comfortable around you.
At work, I noticed that putting effort into my appearance had tangible benefits. Because I dressed well, colleagues and
