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Every time we meet a new person or see someone in the street we make certain assumptions about them. Since the only thing we know about these people is what they look like, that is the information we use to form our initial opinions of them.

Long before civilization it was important to know certain things about the people who we might have encountered. For example a woman looking for a mate would require someone strong and athletic who could provide for and protect her family. You can clearly see which people are athletic and which aren't by simply looking at them.

This instict to assess others has survived evolution and we can't see a person without forming some kind of opinion about them based on their appearance. We can tell what kind of mood the person is in, and we can guess what type of lifestyle and interests the other person has.

There is a tendancy to assume that people in suits with neat hair are successful and in control. This is the type of appearance you would want to put across if you were interviewing for a job for example. If you turned up in ripped jeans or with bright green hair you probably wouldn't get the job. You would probably assume someone who looked like that was going to break the rules or cause trouble.

Men who see women wearing short skirts and skimpy tops assume that they are looking for a good time. Had they seen the same women earlier that day wearing their smart work suits they may have assumed they were uptight.

If you were in danger and needed some help from a police officer you would expect to see a person in a neat uniform. Imagine if the officer was wearing a bikini, would you feel as safe asking them for help?

Appearances greatly affect what we think of other people. No matter how strongly you believe that appearances aren't important, you still make these judgements about the people you see. I don't think it would be possible not to. Humans are too curious to not wonder what other people are like.

On the other side of the coin, I know what kind of person I am. Whether I wear a suit or a bikini, a tracksuit or a ball gown, I'm the same person. I haven't changed. Yet people percieve me differently.

I think it is important to accept that you will be judged based on your appearance, and use this fact to your advantage. If you want people to think you are in control and capable of anything, wear a power suit. If you want people to think you're active, wear a gym clothes. You can give off any impression you choose. This can be helpful when applying for jobs, meeting your inlaws or any other situation where the impression you make is important.

Those times when it doesn't matter what people think of you, such as when you are out shopping or on holiday, wear what you like. It can be interesting to try out different "looks" and watch people's reaction to you. Instead of worrying what people think, make it fun. You might learn something about how people percieve you.

Everyone judges and is judged based on their appearance. Sometimes it matters and sometimes it doesn't. Remember that those first impressions may not be accurate. Keep an open mind and use your appearance to your advantage.

Learn more about this author, Kate Hudson.
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