What should I wear for Zoom calls & video calls? A question I am getting asked by so many entrepreneurs who have had to shift their way of working throughout the current changing business climate. Now, conference calls and video calls aren’t a new thing, many of my clients started working with me after having a video call 121 or virtual coffee, but now we have to completely transform the way we are meeting with new and current clients, this can be a new thing for many of us to take on. We are living most days in comfortable clothes as much as possible, especially as parents, so we need to swap quickly for a video call, to feel professional and suited for these meetings. But how can we feel as confident for these meetings as possible?
I wanted to share some tips to help you feel ready and prepared for whatever video call software you use, to help you feel confident, professional, and comfortable too!
Think about your make-up
One thing that we can start to see in difference to meeting in person is that video calls seem to pick up different colourings. Nothing is more noticeable on this than how makeup makes a huge difference to how we see ourselves in the speaker view! It also helps to brighten up our look through the camera.
One thing to remember is that more makeup is often best, as your lighting and video quality may mean that the 5-minute make-up look you are used to using doesn’t show quite as well over the camera as it does in person! I recommend adding foundation, add a yellowish concealer for dark circles, if you have them, and some bright blush to help to highlight your features, and if you are feeling especially dedicated, some lipstick in a shade that feels comfortable, or some eye shadow can be a great way to boost your confidence. I co-hosted a video on make-up & styling during lockdown with professional make-up artist, Claire Bowring, which you can view here for more make-up tips.
A little tip for your lighting – don’t sit or stand directly under an overhead light. Opt for the room with the most natural light such as your living room. I recommend having your video meeting set up in front of the windows, but with the camera facing away from the window, so the light brightens your face, without casting a shadow!
Hair ideas for zoom calls
Yes, we are all missing our wonderful hairdressers, and it may now feel like a bit of a strain to go all out and blow dry our hair each and every time we have a call planned for the day ahead! I love using different options to make sure I am not having to damage and wash my hair every day, so things like hair scarves, headbands, hair clips, and even just a bit of dry shampoo can do wonders. For more tips on styling your hair, I co-hosted a webinar with hairstylist, Angela Lenci, which you can watch here!
If you have medium to long length hair, now is a great time to practice your French plaiting! There are also options such as pony tails, twists, and many more inspirations.
For shorter cuts – you can embrace the hair wax, and dry shampoo to help jazz up the bed head look to a “messy professional hair” look!
Outfit ideas for zoom calls
Now to my favourite part – what outfit options could work well for zoom calls and meetings?
Remember, it’s all about the top half of your body, so you can be in your pyjama bottoms without anyone knowing (as long as you don’t get up to go and get a drink!). At the same time, it’s true that half of the outfit makes half the job in your self-confidence, so if you can, try to dress up nicely from head to toe. I personally like to wear my jogging bottoms or my yoga pants as they just mean as a mum I have the comfort and the ability to pick up my son or have a mini workout between calls without getting flustered. You can plan ahead with your swaps, using some time-saving tips in this article.
Here are some ideas:
A clean, sharp, white shirt or blouse (depending on your style) – a classic! This works wonders for looking professional and on-trend, without feeling overly dressed up.
A turtleneck– great for comfort, and timeless style. You just can’t go wrong with a turtleneck if you want to feel comfy and professional. Consider putting your hair up in a ponytail as this can help style up your look.
Wear a colourful shirt! Now is the time to increase your positive mindset with some colourful pieces in your wardrobe! Colour can truly make a huge difference to your mindset, so why not go into your summer wardrobe now and get out those holiday-ready shirts and tops. I love a silk blouse as it adds a professional edge to your colour too, just remember to iron it as cameras can pick up every crease.
A fun t-shirt – if your meeting isn’t with a new client, or your just want to be a little more relaxed, a slogan t-shirt can make a fun and personality filled first impression. Add earrings or upgrade your make-up styling to add a little more professionalism should you need it, to balance out the relaxed vibe of your tee.
Remember – you are not alone in feeling concerned, tired, or frustrated about the times we are in at the moment. Take time out to yourself so you can recuperate your energy, as I feel that video calls for some reason, although we are not commuting to meet with others, can feel more draining that those we have in person. If you would like a weekly dose of positivity tips to your inbox, I’d love to invite you to join my newsletter, which comes out each Friday with some helpful and quick ways to input some positive vibes into your week.
