My Adoption & Obsession with Blue Denims

Part 1 : The Incident

I turned into an accidental entrepreneur 2 decades back. Fairly successful but only after initial years of struggles with a formal dress code and quite often complete with a tie did not really help open doors, nor helped us bag big bang marque clients or landed signed deals in my pocket.

The time was challenging on both personal and professional fronts. I went through the usual complexities of lost confidence, debating my own business idea and struggled to survive amongst established big mouth businesses. I guess every new business goes through this journey and most of them collapse and die while some carry on for some more time and collapse on the next corner. It was a moment when an individual calibrates his own destiny with those of others. The heart pounds and the mind wanders. The outcome is often bizarre thoughts about the future.

Well, as they say the ball keeps rolling. And with no visible respite or rescue in sight, it was time to motivate your own self as no one understands the grind and hence no readymade off-the-shelf solutions are offered. During those difficult times, one fine day on a Friday which was incidentally a casual wear day at work. I had worn a light faded denim teamed up with a blue shirt to work. There was an unexpected call from a large client (whom we had met earlier) seeking a quick meeting to discuss our proposal as their senior management officials were in India. I used to drive a M800 car back then and was without an AC making it miserable for the peak summers. I was apprehensive of my casual wear for the meeting but since home was at a far distance, I had no choice to walk into the meeting with what I had. With nothing to lose and still positively approaching the meeting, I sheepishly announced my apology about my dress code, which was reciprocated with a cynical smile, we went ahead with the two-hour long meeting and it turned out a big win for us. I can proudly say that those times of desperation brought out the best in me in all terms of how I handled the meeting. The business was big enough for us to lose our inhibitions about our potential, capabilities and efficacy of our business model & potential.

That event turned around lot of things. My attitude on how I looked at my business, my self-confidence and how life bean to turn out right after that, besides my attitude over a casual dress code. I also learnt valuable lessons about individuality, adaptability, and the power of personal style in that episode.

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Part 2 : The Continuity

In recent years, the acceptance of denim as a dress code in certain corporate and client meeting settings has become more prevalent. As someone who has embraced this evolving trend,

When I then routinely considered wearing denim to corporate and client meetings, I was still hesitant, fearing that it might be perceived as too casual or unprofessional. I used to pray to God for Friday meetings as it legitimately allowed me to wear denims. However, as I observed clients who also occasionally sported denim, I realized that it could be a way to express my individuality while still maintaining a polished appearance. It empowered me to showcase my personal style within the boundaries of professionalism. It was my way of embracing my Individuality.

Fortunately, I worked in an industry that encouraged creativity and flexibility, which allowed for a more relaxed dress code. As I began incorporating denim into my outfits, I found that it was well-received by my clients, colleagues, contributing to a sense of camaraderie and shared authenticity. They followed. And it used to be a cherished experience to not see them frown, make faces or get any sceptical for making me meet the higher-ups in the organisation.

One of the best reasons I give people when asked on my fixation with blue denims is that it has liberated me from what I have to daily think on wearing to work. I don’t stand in front of my wardrobe and evaluate what to wear that day. On the left I have a collection of assorted shades of denims. On the right I have 3 colour shirts of blue, white and black in various hues. And for winter lock-up - a black and blue jacket or sweaters. It has saved me from the huge decision fatigue every day. And trust me, I have inspired many with this idea of restricted wardrobe.

Making a Good First Impression is important. I did that my way. Client meetings are often significant opportunities to create a positive first impression. Initially, I was unsure if wearing denim would convey the desired level of professionalism to clients. To mitigate any potential concerns, I focused on styling my denim in a more sophisticated manner. Pairing dark-washed jeans with tailored blouses, blazers, and heels helped to create a polished and put-together look that exuded professionalism while incorporating my personal style.

One unexpected benefit of wearing denim to corporate and client meetings was the boost in my confidence. When I felt comfortable and authentic in my clothing, it positively impacted my overall demeanour and performance. Denim became a symbol of self-expression, reminding me that professionalism can coexist with personal style. This confidence radiated in my interactions with clients, enhancing my professional relationships and leaving a lasting impression.

My experiences of wearing denims for corporate and client meetings has been a journey of self-expression & adaptability.. As workplaces evolve, allowing for more diverse dress codes, the acceptance of denim has grown, providing individuals with an opportunity to express their personal style without compromising professionalism.

Today, denim has become a versatile and empowering choice for professional attire. As long as we prioritize respect for people, work and adhere to preferences of clients, embracing denim can be a positive and authentic way to navigate the corporate world.

Today almost a decade and a half later. I am still struck with the idea of always in blue denims. My wife sulks over all the formal wear and has gradually given the most away under the plea of clearing space. I hopefully think she has done it for my more denims coupled with only white, black and blue shirts.

Hope is eternal, isn't it?