Finding your personal style can be daunting. If you are like me , you have gone down the rabbit hole of following trends that come and go only to have a closet full of things you would never wear again. Of course that was in my younger days.
Now, with climate change and pandemics as well as Politics not to be named, it is the perfect time for you to take a step back and assess where you are. Let's face it, when it comes to dressing, some of your closet may not only be outdated but not in line with your lifestyle so let's take a look at how we can remedy that.
Look for Inspiration
In the past I would say go thru Magazines and find examples of what you love so you could make a mood board or boards depending on how many types of looks you need but that is not only wasteful and time consuming, but can also be costly. That is why I love Pinterest.
So first things first. Make a list of the different parts of your life you need looks for. Work, Home, Weekend......you get the idea. Now make a Pinterest board for each and pin things that fit in each category that speaks to you.
Clean your Closet
Get in that closet and clean it out. Put everything in a pile that no longer fits into your lifestyle. Please do not throw that pile out. It can have a second life for others so drop them off at Goodwill or ask your local thrift shop if they might be interested in them.
Now take stock and look at what you have left. I would set them up in Categories of wear to work, weekend, dressy etc. It will be so much easier to find just the right thing once your closet isn't overpacked.
Think smarter when you shop
If you only shop to fill the holes in your closet, you will have a better styled and organized wardrobe. Before you go shopping I recommend the following
Take a picture of what is in your closet so you have references. I can't tell you how many times someone wished they brought that skirt to match a top.
Check out your Pinterest board to make sure you are in line with the looks you want to achieve
Don't be impulsive. This is a hard one for me. I have an emotional connection to clothing and shoes so when I see something I want, I will obsess over it. When you are feeling that way, step away and come back if you can't stop thinking about it a few days later. If it is meant to be yours it will be there waiting for you.
Keep your lifestyle in mind
Your wardrobe should reflect who you are but it should also represent your lifestyle. Where you live, what you like to do, how you live. If you look at something and say I love that but where could I wear that and not have an immediate answer, let it go.
Confidence is more important then your dress size
I have to say, I have never met a woman that did not complain about some part of their body. We also get so hung up on size that if we think we are a Medium and we try on a large which fits perfectly we will not buy it because of the number in the garment. Who cares......you have one life to live and this is the body you have. Embrace your beautiful self and walk into the store with your head high. Don't look at sizing. If it looks like it will fit try it on.
Ask for Help
When you are sick, you go to a doctor. When you got married you may have hired a wedding planner. Well, style is the same. There are professionals who have trained and know how to style you. The difference is you probably do not have to pay for this service. Find places to shop where you know the sales people will tell you the truth and know how to merchandise. As a Fashion Designer, it is in my best interest that my customers look good in my creations. They are representing me.
Have Accessories at the ready
Accessories are great because they help pull things all together. You can make a simple dress special with a Statement Necklace or Silk Scarf. Add a funky handbag to a simple jeans and t-shirt outfit or sometimes the shoes you accent the outfit with Makes the outfit.
Be true to yourself and trust your instincts
Most importantly, listen to your inner voice. Find what works for you. Don't follow what everyone else is doing. Each one of us is unique and we need to own that and show it off. It all boils down to feeling good in your own skin—your style should reflect and celebrate your life, your individuality, and personality. Own your style, be proud of it, and embrace fashion as a way to express who you are and who you want to be.
