Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
The Influence of Clothing Style on Social Perception
Publication Date
12-4-2024
College
Sciences and Mathematics, College of
Department
Psychological Science, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Dr. Patrick Morse
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Abstract
In this study, we explore the impact of clothing style on social perception, specifically focusing on perceived approachability, intelligence, and confidence. Previous research illustrated that clothing can significantly impact how individuals are judged In this repeated measures experiment, participants took a survey where they were assigned to view images of individuals dressed in formal, business casual, and leisure style. For the first half of the survey, they were only exposed to images of the individual’s face. In the second half, the participants would see the same individuals, but with his or her entire outfit included in the image. We hypothesized that formal attire would lead to higher perceived confidence, leisure attire would lead to lower perceived intelligence, and business casual would enhance perceived approachability. Though clothing style can be used as a function of social perception, it is important to be mindful of the plentiful purposes that style serves, as well as its limitations in assessing true character.
Recommended Citation
Butler, Gwendolyn; Harris, Olivia; Perdue, Perrin; and Newton, Ailise, "The Influence of Clothing Style on Social Perception" (2024). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 152.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/152
