News Release

The Road to Confidence may run through your Closet
We all know the way a bad hair day can make us feel, but did you know that what you wear also has an impact on your confidence? A recent survey by Opinion Research on behalf of Downy Wrinkle Releaser reveals that people feel less confident when their clothes do not fit properly or are wrinkled. Additionally, the study shows that people believe their clothes have the power to give them confidence, with one in four claiming to have a "lucky" outfit.

Clothing is so important to people that they worry about it throughout the day. According to the survey, the number one fear people have is staining their clothing, followed by discovering wrinkles and finally not being dressed properly for the situation.

"Confidence is something we can all have. One of the easiest ways to start developing confidence is to know how you look your best," said Dr. Judith Briles, confidence expert and author of the new book The Confidence Factor (Mile High Press, April 2001). "A common mistake people make is they underestimate the wrinkle effect -- wrinkled clothes can convey the wrong message to people and erode your self-confidence."

Dr. Briles offers the following real life advice to help develop the confidence people need:

  • Appearance -- A large part of being confident is appearing confident even when you are not.
    • Know your best colors and most flattering styles.
    • Wear clothing free of wrinkles, for a quick fix use Downy Wrinkle Releaser to remove wrinkles from clothing anytime, anywhere.
    • Smile. It can say a thousand words.
  • Renewal -- Keep learning all the time. In fact, the survey found that the number one thing people see as a common trait in confident people is openness to new ideas and concepts.
  • Perseverance -- Don't let failure erode your confidence, the ability to bounce back from failure was one of the top characteristics noted in the survey that all confident people share.
  • Create Bravos -- Post small notes around your home or office with the compliments people have paid you written on them and keep a file of positive letters you have received to refer to when you need a confidence boost.

Downy Wrinkle Releaser is a convenient and versatile product, enabling it to be used on a variety of fabrics and virtually all types of garments that are normally laundered or dry cleaned. From children's clothes and school uniforms to casual garments like knit separates, polo shirts, khakis and jeans, the more people use Downy Wrinkle Releaser, the more uses they find for it.

Procter & Gamble markets approximately 300 brands to nearly five billion consumers in over 140 countries. These brands include Tide, Ariel, Crest, Pantene Pro-V, Always, Whisper, Pringles, Pampers, Olay, Iams and Vicks. Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, P&G has on-the-ground operations in over 70 countries and employs more than 110,000 people worldwide.