Jennifer Lawrence's Slouchy Sweater Moment & What It Means for Professional Women
How one 'unassuming' piece made her the most memorable woman on the red carpet—and how you can use the same method in your career
Most people would say a tulle skirt and oversized sweater don’t belong on the red carpet. But JLaw proved them wrong—and in doing so, she demonstrated what I’ve been teaching clients for years: The Unassuming Method.
Here’s what makes this moment matter for you (even if you’re not walking red carpets): JLaw didn’t break the rules for shock value. She owned her presence by staying true to her style, and that’s exactly what professional women need to do in boardrooms, on stages, and at client dinners.
Many of my clients are overdelivering in their roles while positioning for the next one. They know a memorable personal brand will set them apart. But the tension between wanting to stand out and wanting to be taken seriously keeps them stuck in safe neutrals and forgettable outfits.
Here’s what most people miss, in JLaw’s moment and in yours: This wasn’t rebellion. It was a masterclass in owning your presence.
Here’s why it worked:
She was confident, and that radiated. Why? Because it was authentic to her. JLaw is notorious for wearing oversized, cozy outfits on the street. She didn’t abandon her style for the red carpet. She elevated it using The Unassuming Method.
I’ve been teaching this method to clients for years. The concept: Add one unassuming piece (something unexpected or “rule-breaking”) to create instant interest and memorability while staying authentic to you.
Why it works: It breaks the monotony of “perfect” dressing. You become human, approachable, and memorable, all while staying polished and true to your style.
The most powerful thing you can wear is something that feels like YOU, even (especially) when it challenges what people expect. That’s The Unassuming Method in action.
What this means for professional women:
When you translate the red carpet to the boardroom, you’re not choosing between a gown and a sweater. You’re choosing between conformity and authenticity. And The Unassuming Method gives you the framework to stand out without sacrificing respect.
You don’t have to dress like a man or an old Ann Taylor magazine to be taken seriously. This isn’t about being “quirky” or even winning the “most fashionable” title, rather it is about defining a personal style that allows you to show up authentically and confidently, one that says “I can not only do this job, but the next 3 above me,” in a non-pretentious way.
Let me show you how.