In any story in which a ragtag group of misfits comes together as a team, one of the most defining moments is always when they first don their new uniform. It doesn’t matter if it’s a business uniform, a sports uniform, a work uniform or a superhero uniform, we react the same way every time. Why is that simple act so significant? And why are we so moved by it? Humans crave uniqueness. We want to know we’re special, that we have something to offer that’s different from everyone else. This is one of our fundamental drives. But we also want to feel like we’re a part of something bigger. Being unique is meaningless in isolation. It only matters when we have a team within which our uniqueness can be expressed. We want and need to belong to a tribe that can utilize our talents and appreciate our presence. One of the main ways we evolved to identify our tribe is by our similar clothing and dress. And that evolutionary drive runs so deeply that the mere colors of a sports fan’s favored team are enough to cause feelings of camaraderie, loyalty and inspiration. A growing body of research indicates employees that wear work uniforms view the company more positively, coworkers more generously, and themselves more favorably. Further, such teams work harder, stay more focused and are generally more productive. Other research shows that customers prefer to do business with people wearing clothing that matches their expectations. Proper company uniforms inspire confidence in your company’s professionalism, quality and consistency. Team cohesion, productivity, and client trust are all important. But the right business uniforms do more. They provide consistent safety and protection for employees, they create a clear brand for your company and they offer easy functionality and workwear durability for demanding jobs. All of this adds up to a competitive edge for companies that choose to suit up and become a team.