Fashion Choices That May Be Sending A Not-So-Subtle Message

With each outfit we wear, we are sharing a bit of ourselves with the rest of the world. Your wardrobe should be a reflection and extension of who you are, as well as a way to highlight your style preferences. But what message are you sharing with your outfits? Some aesthetics are easy to recognize: Suits might mean a person is business-oriented, dresses represent femininity, and sneakers can be representative of a casual style with a bit of an edge. 

Of course, there are also certain clothing choices that give off a less-than-favorable vibe for the person in them. Others are presentable but offer the wrong impression of what you're hoping to achieve with each individual look. Different colors, accessories, and articles of clothing have specific, widely understood meanings that give off information about you as the wearer, even if that's not your intention. Even one garment that is out of place can communicate an ambiance that you're trying to avoid. Fortunately there are ways to revamp or cultivate your personal style if you have no idea where to start. Take note of fashion choices like overly baggy clothes, frequent athleisure, or even a good pair of high heels, and what they symbolize before pulling them out of your closet without a second thought. 

Layers of big, oversized garments run the risk of looking unflattering. Even on the red carpet, dresses with the wrong type of drape will make body proportions look off. Those that wear baggy clothing might be thought of as self conscious because they are hiding their bodies behind so much material. It's one thing to look casual, but it's another to look like you don't want to be seen. And if you're hoping to revive '80s or '90s fashion with giant clothes, remember to balance it out with modern touches in a way that seems intentional. 

Fashion can transform more than how one looks on the outside; the right wardrobe can influence your mood and inspire you to accomplish greatness. High heels are the perfect example as they demand attention in a way that feels unapologetic. They combine femininity with office attire so women become beacons of the workplace. Heels physically make a person taller, thus giving them the cue to take up more space in the room. Touting a sense of confidence, high heels are the premiere accessory for women who don't want to sacrifice style for sensibility. 

The ideal ensemble is both fashionable and functional. A smartly styled seasonal outfit lets people know that you are practical and want your wardrobe to deliver on every front. Layering clothes as the temperature drops shows that you always come prepared, and warm tones of brown and orange say that you are in tune with the world around you as the leaves change for the season. If you already have the essentials you need to revamp your fall capsule wardrobe, you're clearly one step ahead.

It's one thing to feel inspired by a fashion trend, but it's another to jump from one craze to another without ever considering how you really feel about it. Becoming dependent on it-girls to guide your fashion choices can come off as uninspired and boring, making the wearer look predictable. Clothes that don't say anything about who you are indicate a lack of substance, genuine interest in style, and even persona as a fashionista. Put your own creative spin on corporate wear, experiment with different colors and non-trending silhouettes, or choose an accessory that has sentimental value to personalize and liven up your closet. 

Loud luxury, the heightened positioning of famous brand logos, is a sign of affluence and an expression of extroversion. The trend makes it clear that one is not afraid to show who they are and how much they have. It tells the world that you like maximalism and stay up to date on the latest trends. But too much name recognition could come off as gaudy and make a person look like they are trying too hard. Loud luxury should be showcased in a classy way, such as with a small clutch or refined jewelry.

It's great that today's workout wear is versatile enough to be worn outside the gym. But becoming too reliant on yoga pants can translate as a lack of effort. This look gets tired very quickly and can stop the wearer from coming across as intentional. Often, activewear is optimized for function but can look bland in terms of fashion. It's too simple of a choice and can feel like a lazy afterthought in the wrong setting. The more places you choose to wear workout clothing, the less opportunities you will have to take style risks or nail a high-fashion moment.