Is style just about what we wear—or is it also about who we are becoming? From the colors we gravitate toward to the fabrics we feel at home in, our clothing choices often speak long before we do. But what are they really saying?

According to studies, our clothing has an impact on how we see ourselves and how other people see us. According to a study, the way that people dress can affect their confidence and cognitive functions. Put differently, fashion is more than simply a surface; it has the power to influence our behavior.

“Clothing is a form of self-expression, but it can also reflect deeper personal growth and values,” as fashion historian Valerie Steele once said. In a time when priorities are changing, that principle is more relevant than ever. Many people are adopting simplicity as a sign of mindfulness as well as for aesthetic reasons. As a continuation of environmental ethics, some are opting for sustainable fashion. The question is no longer just “What looks good?”—but “What aligns with who I am now?”

In this expert roundup, we explore how personal style evolves as people grow—emotionally, mentally, and even spiritually. What does it mean to dress with intention? How can clothing support confidence and well-being in a world where authenticity is often the boldest statement of all?

Editor’s Note: The experiences and reflections shared in this article represent the personal journeys of the individuals interviewed and are not intended as medical, psychological, or professional advice.

Yoga Practice Simplifies Personal Style

As my yoga practice deepened, my style became quieter. In my twenties, I wore what I thought a yoga teacher should wear: flowing fabrics, spiritual symbols, and colors that suggested calm or wisdom. It was a performance. I wanted to be seen a certain way. As my inner work grew more honest, the need to project an identity faded. I began choosing clothes for breathability, durability, and ease of movement. I stopped trying to represent anything.

A significant shift came after my father died. That loss stripped away every surface layer. During that time, I let go of appearances. I wore the same simple clothes for weeks. Not from neglect, but because simplicity helped me stay present. I didn’t need to express anything. I needed to feel. That period taught me that clarity comes through reduction.

Now, I wear neutral, functional layers that don’t demand thought or attention. No logos. No symbols. My clothing helps me move, breathe, and teach without distraction. It supports focus rather than drawing attention. My style reflects steadiness, not image. What I wear holds no performance, only purpose.

This shift didn’t happen quickly. It followed years of practice, study, grief, and letting go. Style once meant expression. Now it means support. Quiet, stable, useful support.

Timothy Burgin, Founder and Executive Director, Yoga Basics

Leadership Reflected in Disciplined Attire

My style changed the day we opened our first club in Frisco. Until then, I thought dressing sharply meant wearing expensive brands and standing out. I was wrong. What I needed was a uniform that reflected discipline, consistency, and respect for the people I serve. Running a business built on trust and standards forced me to look at how I carried myself every day. I wasn’t just representing myself anymore.

I moved to custom pieces that fit correctly and didn’t chase trends. Clean lines. Neutral tones. Quality over flair. I stopped wearing clothes that said, “Look at me,” and started wearing ones that said, “You can count on me.” That shift matched the way I led. Be straightforward, accountable, and focused. Our members expect excellence. That starts with how I show up.

You don’t earn respect by dressing louder than the next person. You earn it by showing that you’ve done the work. That you’ve built something with care. My style became a mirror of that mindset. Reliable. Intentional. Nothing extra. Every detail serves a purpose. That approach built our business. It also built my confidence. Style isn’t about attention. It’s about alignment.

Ben Davis, CEO, The Gents Place

Sustainability Shapes Conscious Fashion Choices

My personal style has evolved significantly over the years, especially after my shift toward sustainability. Initially, I would buy new clothes impulsively, following trends. However, after learning about the environmental toll of fast fashion, I began focusing on reusing and upcycling. I now intentionally wear items I’ve had for years, often reinventing them into new looks through simple alterations or by adding accessories made from upcycled materials.

This change has not only helped reduce my personal consumption by around 35%, but it also aligns with the values behind my business. The shift made me more mindful of my choices, both in fashion and in life. Instead of constantly seeking new items, I learned to appreciate what I already had. This evolution in style has made me more confident, not just in how I look but in the values I express through my clothing. It reflects a deeper understanding of sustainability and living intentionally, which has also translated into how I approach leadership and business decisions.

Soumya Kalluri, Founder, dwij, Dwij

Mindful Wardrobe Mirrors Personal Values

Instead of pursuing endless purchases or temporary trends, I’ve gradually shifted to a more mindful approach, carefully selecting pieces that genuinely align with my long-term values of intentionality, simplicity, and sustainability.

Practically, this means consciously buying clothes or accessories that are clearly built to last, focusing on craftsmanship, timelessness, and practicality rather than impulse or quick fixes. Prioritizing higher-quality pieces over quantity has directly mirrored an internal mindset shift toward intentional consumption and conscious living, reflecting personal values of care, awareness, and authenticity.

Over time, I believe this style clearly represents deeper personal growth in how I think about and engage with the world. Instead of cluttering my life or closet, I’m increasingly choosing fewer but truly meaningful items, bringing quiet confidence, reduced stress, and genuine satisfaction.

Bayu Prihandito, Psychology Consultant, Life Coach, Founder, Life Architekture

Comfort and Intention Guide Style Evolution

Over the years, my personal style has definitely evolved, and it’s reflected my growth, especially in balancing personal well-being with the demands of running a business. A few years ago, I found myself constantly going, going, going, chasing after the next big goal. I didn’t give myself the space to breathe and reflect on what mattered most. I’ve learned that true success isn’t just about what’s on the outside or how fast you can move; it’s about being aligned with your core values and staying true to your wellness journey.

This shift has led me to embrace more relaxed, intentional, and comfortable clothing. I’ve always loved fashion, but now I opt for pieces that support my energy, such as a cozy, well-made sweater, or a fresh pair of natural, breathable shoes. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good, and I’ve learned that being grounded in who I am makes a world of difference, both in my personal life and at Bella All Natural. As I continue to grow, I want my style to be an outward reflection of the peace and balance I’m building inside.

Daisy Cabral, Dynamic CEO, Bella All Natural

Consistent Fashion Boosts Professional Confidence

Fashion is an integral component of self-expression, one that we often overlook. For a long time, I didn’t fully appreciate how the clothes I wore impacted my confidence.

As a marketing professional, I always knew about the notion of professional branding, but until last year, I never adhered to it. After a breakup in 2024, dressing intentionally became a way to channel confidence when I felt anything but. This manifested in small but very consistent ways: wearing the same eye makeup every day, wearing high heels, and using the same perfume – all to create a clear and consistent image of who Tess is.

Prior to going through this change in my life, fashion was never a priority in who I was. Now, it is a key component of the person I am, and will always be. When it comes to confidence, I want to walk into a room and know that I look and feel great – even if what I’m wearing isn’t to someone else’s taste. People often will ask, “Are you going on a date after this?” or “Do you have plans?” but the answer is no – I dress for myself, not for anyone else.

It might sound corny, but my personal style has become an essential facet of my confidence and personal brand.

Tess Botham-Barnes, Marketing Professional

Natural Beauty Inspires Aesthetic Philosophy

As I reflect on how my personal style has evolved, I can’t help but notice how my inner growth is mirrored in the way I approach aesthetics today. Over the years, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of the power of subtlety and natural beauty, which is now central to the services we offer at Lumi Aesthetics. My journey as a practitioner and as an individual has taught me the importance of embracing one’s true essence and enhancing it, rather than altering it. This philosophy has become a core aspect of how I lead the clinic and deliver personalized treatments that prioritize each client’s individual needs.

In my role as Clinical Director, I’ve always emphasized the importance of listening to our clients’ desires and aligning those with their best possible aesthetic outcomes. This patient-centered approach allows me to create a customized experience for every individual, just as I’ve learned to make my personal style a reflection of my evolving self. I now place greater value on treatments that enhance natural features, like our non-surgical facelifts, Botox, and dermal fillers services that reflect this philosophy and allow clients to feel more confident while maintaining a fresh, youthful appearance.

Additionally, my growing belief in non-invasive solutions has influenced the way we approach beauty at Lumi Aesthetics. I have seen firsthand how transformative treatments like skin rejuvenation (such as microneedling and chemical peels) and body contouring can be in helping clients achieve a renewed sense of self. These treatments align with my personal style of valuing effective results without compromising on the safety and comfort of our patients, ensuring that every client feels truly cared for and leaves the clinic with not only visible results but also a restored sense of confidence.

Just as my personal style has evolved to embrace a holistic view of beauty, Lumi Aesthetics integrates advanced technology with personalized care. This ensures that our clients receive the most optimal results, tailored specifically to their needs. This is a reflection of my own growth and understanding of what truly matters: authenticity, safety, and a luxurious, comfortable experience that makes every person feel like the best version of themselves.

Neda Hovaizi, Clinical Director, Lumi Aesthetics

Share Your Insights

We want to hear your perspective on the relationship between style and personal growth. Share your thoughts in the comments:

• How has your personal style evolved with life changes or inner growth?
• Do you dress more for function, expression, or something else entirely?
• What values or habits influence your fashion choices today?

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