Create Your Style Advantage

The 400% ROI of Style

When Neil Patel, founder of QuickSprout, decided to change only one thing in his business for the year, it wasn’t his strategy, pricing, or product—it was his wardrobe.

He invested $162,301 in clothes and styling. That was the only change. Yet by the end of that year, he generated an additional $692,500 in revenue, a more than 400% return on his investment.

Presence That Pays Off

In a podcast interview, Patel shared that people wanted to know who he was, get close to him, and be in the same room with him. They were curious, engaged, and drawn to his presence. He didn’t just close more deals; he closed bigger ones.

That’s the power of creating a Style Advantage.

Style Is an Investment, Not an Expense

You don’t have to spend $162,000 to gain a style advantage. But as a wardrobe stylist who works with successful business professionals, I see this story play out every day. When my clients invest in themselves, they immediately notice a shift. They stand taller, walk differently, and communicate with more confidence. They start showing up ready for opportunities rather than waiting for them.

How You Show Up Matters

It doesn’t matter if you’re the president of your company, a manager, or a team member; your presence speaks before you do. Your clothes tell a story of confidence, capability, and leadership, or they don’t.

A Small Shift, A Big Difference

I recently worked with a leader of an international company who was traveling for work. When we met to plan their trip wardrobe, they admitted they planned to wear sweats and a sweater on the flight because it was “comfortable.” I reminded them that as the president of an international company, they represent their brand wherever they go. With one small shift, choosing well-fitting jeans, a great top, and a leather jacket, they went from too casual to confidently put together.

They were still comfortable, but they now carried themselves with quiet authority. That’s what showing up on brand looks like.

Find Your Style Advantage

Take five minutes this week to think intentionally about how you want to show up as you close out the year. How can you be memorable, stay top of mind, and show up wearing pieces that give you confidence and feel authentic?
Ask yourself:

When you invest in yourself and your style, you invest in your success. Like Neil Patel, you’ll notice the difference not only in how others respond to you but in how you respond to yourself.

Your brand never sleeps. The question is, are you showing up as who you used to be, as the leader you already are, or the one you want to be?

Make a quick list of pieces you know you need to replace. Start small and use my Capsule Wardrobe Samples to get started.

Pick up a copy of my book, The Style Advantage: I Say What HR Can’t, or book a Style Inspo Session with me to learn how we can work together to build a wardrobe that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.