Why Clear Expectations Matter in Style
We’ve all been in situations where expectations weren’t clear, and frustration usually follows. This happens quite often with dress code guidelines. One manager imagines “business casual” one way, a team member imagines something completely different, and HR doesn’t always step in. No one says anything, and people may feel judged, confused, and disconnected.
The same dynamic happens every day with personal style. Whether you realize it or not, your outfit communicates expectations. It tells your colleagues, leaders, and clients whether you’re:
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Meeting expectations (blending in, doing the minimum)
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Falling short (creating doubt or friction)
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Exceeding expectations (standing out as the expert and leader)
What Your Clothes Are Communicating
In The Style Advantage, I share that 93% of all communication is non-verbal. Before you say a word, your clothes are already speaking for you. Are they saying what you want them to? If you’re the expert in your field, are you showing up that way?
The truth is: when leaders clearly communicate expectations, teams typically rise to meet them. The same applies to your wardrobe. When you take the time to decide how you want to present yourself and dress in alignment with your message, others respond with respect, trust, and confidence in you. It’s a ripple effect: they notice a shift in how you are dressing and showing up, they comment, and then you notice a shift. You will likely stand taller and have more confidence. Small shifts can change everything.
A Real-Life Example of Standing Out
I saw a great example of this recently when I gave a presentation. A manager recognized a team member for always showing up dressed in a way that was above and beyond. They weren’t wearing a suit, but they consistently chose polished, professional pieces. He sat up and smiled, it was good to be recognized.
The result? They stood out to their leaders and colleagues, became known for exceeding expectations, and were recognized for it.
Tip: Decide How You Want to Be Remembered
Here’s a practical way to bring this to life: decide how you want to be remembered. Do you want your style to be known as:
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Classic and polished
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Sporty and approachable
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Bold and colorful
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Unique and quirky
Once you decide, align your wardrobe with that vision. When you show up consistently, it will create and reinforce your personal brand, and over time, people will connect you with the values and qualities you want to be known for. You will be more memorable and top of mind.
The Bottom Line: Clarity Wins
Being intentional with your wardrobe isn’t about vanity; it’s about clarity and strategy. And clarity and strategy will always give you an advantage.
So ask yourself:
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What signals am I sending?
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Do my clothes reflect where I am now or where I want to go?
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If a client or manager judged me only by how I look today, would I be chosen as the expert?
Make no mistake, you are being judged, and your wardrobe is one of the easiest ways to exceed expectations and establish yourself as the professional you already are.
✨ Book a Style Inspo Session and start showing up on brand, with confidence. It’s time to move beyond the bare minimum and start exceeding expectations.