Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nicole Sallis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Nicole, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
I’ve always wrestled with self-esteem. Growing up in Iowa, I was captivated by fashion from an early age, sewing outfits for my Barbie dolls without fully realizing that my identity and self-expression were trying to break through via style. Feeling like I didn’t quite fit in was tough, and the struggle went beyond confidence; it was about finding the freedom to show up fully, even when I felt out of place. I was driven by this pull to see if my talent could thrive among the best, so after college, I took a leap and ventured to NYC, ready to test my limits.
Trying to compete in New York’s fashion industry tested every inch of my confidence, especially hearing things like, “What could you know about fashion coming from Iowa?” Those “NOs” hit hard, particularly as I struggled to find a job right out of college. The industry demanded experience I didn’t yet have, so I took a step back and returned for another internship—a humbling but necessary choice that challenged my self-esteem. Eventually, though, I landed my first design assistant role and, later, a chance to style a celebrity.
After 20 years of working professional in fashion, trend forecasting, and branding—and 10 years coaching women through my company, Design+Her+Life—I realized that my journey wasn’t just about style. It was about using style to build my own confidence, finding the courage to show up more fully in spaces I wanted to belong. I began to see style not as armor but as a tool for empowerment. Initially, it felt a bit superficial, but as I studied enclothed cognition, I discovered the powerful psychology behind it—that what we wear shapes our mindset, mood, and ultimately, how we show up in the world.
This understanding transformed me. Using style with intention became my way of aligning my inner strength with my outward presence, allowing me to enter rooms with a deep sense of purpose and self-assurance. At Design+Her+Life, this is our heart and mission. We guide women to dress from the inside out, connecting with their style as a tool for building self-esteem and confidence. It’s about dressing with intention, choosing each piece as a reflection of the woman you aspire to be, and using that vision to fuel you to show up boldly, fully, and authentically. Style isn’t just a wardrobe; it’s a toolkit to help you claim every space with confidence and courage.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Check out NicoleSallis.com! My mission centers around helping high-achieving women align their style + lives with their personal power, especially through life transitions. Life doesn’t slow down in a new season, and when we’re committed to growth, we keep facing these shifts. They ask us to show up, lead with confidence, and embrace our power. Yet, changes can create a disconnect between how we feel internally and how we show up externally, leaving us misaligned and questioning if others truly see our strength.
That’s where my work comes in. As a Global Leadership + Identity Style Expert, I draw from nearly 20 years in fashion, style psychology, and creative consulting to guide women in stepping into their full presence. My career spans New York City to Los Angeles, working with brands like the NBA, Champion, Neiman Marcus, and Forever 21, and sharing insights at venues from universities to Madison Square Garden.
My approach, Identity Style, is evidence-based and uses Style Psychology to help women renegotiate their identities, transforming not only how they view themselves but also how others perceive them. When style + power are in sync, you’re unstoppable. This work is about more than appearance—it’s about embracing each season with confidence and purpose.
Our unique packages meet women where they are:
1. Style That Speaks Package – Tailored for service providers, coaches, + consultants aiming to create a signature style that commands attention and builds credibility.
2. Brand Shoot Style Package – Designed for professionals needing styling + creative direction for brand photo shoots to launch new offers or elevate their brand.
3. New Identity/Seasonal Capsule Style Package – Supports women in navigating new life seasons with a wardrobe that aligns with their evolving identity.
Additionally, The Year of Style subscription offers ongoing support for personal style development, featuring guidance on seasonal trends, personalized style tips, + practical insights into using style for personal growth.
For organizations and colleges, I lead The Art of Showing Up training series + retreats, exploring leadership presence, effective communication, and authentic self-presentation. These sessions empower participants to claim their space and enhance their leadership presence. My upcoming book, The Art of Showing Up with Style: 25 Strategies for Commanding Any Room, brings this approach to life, blending the playful edge of The Devil Wears Prada with the strategic insights of The 48 Laws of Power.
Through my work, I support women in aligning their outer presence with their evolving identities, helping them to show up powerfully + authentically. With my background in marketing, communications, + NLP coaching, I’m passionate about guiding high-achieving women and leaders to amplify their voices + truly shine.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities have profoundly shaped my path: self-awareness, resilience, + a willingness to embrace adventure. These qualities have helped me build what I call Power Style Assets (PSAs) with my clients—those key items or tools that amplify our personal power + influence how we show up in the world.
Self-Awareness: Self-discovery is the foundation of personal power. By investing in understanding your strengths, values, and unique qualities, you unlock a confidence and authenticity that no external validation can match. This clarity guides your choices, strengthens your goals, and empowers you to show up as the person you’re truly meant to be. Self-awareness provides the direction needed to navigate life purposefully and with conviction.
Resilience: Life brings challenges, and resilience is the muscle that grows every time we face something difficult. For me, consistently stepping outside my comfort zone has been crucial in building resilience. It’s a practice of adopting an “I can do hard things” mindset. Embracing even small doses of discomfort—trying a new activity or traveling solo—expands your comfort zone, strengthening your ability to face intimidating situations with confidence.
Intentional Styling + PSAs: Your Power Style Assets are more than just clothes—they’re tools that align your inner strength with your outer presence. For example, when I present, I wear stilettos; they’re one of my PSAs. They impact my posture, boost my confidence, and influence how I speak. By identifying and utilizing these pieces, you harness their psychological effect on your mindset and performance. When your style and personal power are in harmony, you’re unstoppable. PSAs equip you to enter each new season of life with purpose and confidence, ready to claim any room you step into.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
As a professional speaker and facilitator, I’m passionate about empowering women to embrace their full potential. I’m always looking to collaborate with individuals and organizations dedicated to empowering women, elevating leadership, and fostering personal transformation. Style is a big topic for women, but my approach to Identity Style goes deeper—it’s an achievable, impactful transformation any woman can make, regardless of budget.
I’m especially interested in partnering with businesses, colleges, and women-focused organizations looking to incorporate style psychology, leadership development, and personal branding into their events, workshops, or team training. Ideal collaborators are those dedicated to helping leaders step into their full potential, whether in corporate training, women’s networks, educational institutions, or brands focused on empowering women through style and personal development. I’m also open to collaborating with fashion brands, personal growth platforms, and media outlets that center on career growth, lifestyle, or self-empowerment.
If this resonates with you, I’d love to connect and explore how I can add value to your next event. Visit www.nicolesallis.com, and join my community, Design+Her+Life, on Instagram at @design.her.life. There, we empower women to reconnect with their personal power and align their inner strength with their outward presence.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nicolesallis.com
- Instagram: @design.her.life
Image Credits
Work Play Brand
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