Gregg Renfrew's Power Dressing Strategy Emphasizes Confidence

Gregg Renfrew, the founder and CEO of the beauty brandcurrently Counter, employs a distinctive power-dressing strategy that blends classic New England prep with bold, personal touches. Her style, often characterized by a tailored navy blazer, crisp white button-down shirt, and well-cut trousers, is punctuated by statement pieces such as leopard-print pumps, chunky jewelry, and sharp leather jackets. For high-stakes public appearances like television interviews and speeches, Renfrew favors bright red, which she identifies as her personal power color. This deliberate sartorial approach is not merely about aesthetics but serves as a tool for projecting authority and confidence.

Renfrew's philosophy on style has evolved over time, influenced by a perspective often seen in European women who embrace aging as a period of increased self-awareness and confidence rather than something to conceal. Having navigated decades of building significant brands while simultaneously raising a family, she has cultivated an innate understanding of what silhouettes flatter her figure and authentically represent her identity. She articulates this evolution by stating, "I feel better in clothing today than I did when I was in my twenties," emphasizing a shift away from needing to "prove anything to anyone anymore." This sentiment underscores a mature confidence that informs her professional presentation.

Currently, Renfrew frequently addresses audiences comprised of young entrepreneurs and women aspiring to advance in the corporate world. She is acutely aware of the non-verbal communication her wardrobe conveys upon entering a room or stepping onto a stage. Her strategy involves striking a careful balance: dressing with a high degree of polish and professionalism while remaining mindful of the diverse financial backgrounds of her audience members. She consciously avoids projecting an image of exclusivity tied to high-end labels, aiming instead for a blend of aspiration and accessibility. Renfrew also emphasizes sustainability and practicality in her wardrobe choices, stating, "I want to be aspirational enough, but accessible," and "it’s important to send that message to women—that we don’t have to have a new outfit every single time." This approach aims to inspire without alienating.

Ultimately, Renfrew believes that dressing with authority is fundamentally about selecting attire that fosters a sense of comfort and self-assurance. "Confidence is the name of the game," she asserts, highlighting that the most impactful element of her style is the self-possession it instills. When asked to describe her style in a single sentence, she characterizes it as "Classic, timeless with a twist." The one item she would never part with from her closet is "the perfect white shirt," a testament to its enduring versatility and foundational role in her wardrobe. Her approach to dressing is a deliberate strategy to feel "at home in your own skin," projecting an image that is both powerful and relatable to aspiring professionals.