1. Wear leather
We’re not suggesting you go overboard Dominatrix but leather leggings, skirts or boots ooze grown up sex appeal and easily banish that childish image.
Minuet Petite leather skirt, £129
2. Tough accessories
Spikes, studs, buckles. Make sure you tread the line carefully here. Overdo it and you’ll graduate from child to angsty teenager. Shudder.
Ted Baker studded courts, £130
3. Work on your posture
Turns out your Mother was right all those years. Standing with your shoulders back, head up and tummy in not only does wonders for your posture, but also how you’re perceived.
4. Consider a tattoo
If you have been meaning to get that suitably obscure quote inked on your skin, now might be a good time to consider it. Tatoos are haute these days and certainly toughen your image.
5. Get a biker jacket
You don’t mess with someone in a leather jacket. That’s a fashion fact. Exude effortless, insouciant cool in the uniform of rebels and rockstars.
Halogen petite leather moto jacket, $178.80
6. Go for a manly car
Unless you can’t drive, that is, In which case we strongly recommend you continue getting public transport. But maybe lean more.
7. Masculine cuts
Borrow from the boys for androgynous cool. This tried and tested technique stops condescension in its tracks. Promise.
8. Metal details
Layer chains, opt for studded garments or try ear-cuffs for an effect that’s brazen and fearless.
Eddie Borgo zip ear cuff, £98.46
9. Embrace military trend
Almost as intimidating as the leather jacket, the khaki jacket/trench commands attention.
J. Crew petite long field jacket, $198
10. Buy or borrow a scary dog
Unless you’re allergic. Chihuahuas, pugs and sausage dogs may have their place, but they’re not exactly fierce are they? It’s time to be fierce.
