3 Style Shifts That Instantly Elevate Your Presence—Especially for Mid-Size & Plus-Size Women
If you’ve ever stood in front of your closet asking, “How do I show up today?”—you’re not alone. And the answer isn’t more clothes—it’s smarter styling. Especially for mid-size and plus-size women, how you dress can be a powerful tool to lead with visibility, authority, and self-expression.
These three style shifts are what I teach my clients—executives, entrepreneurs, and changemakers—who want to command rooms, exude confidence, and stand out in every space they enter.
Shift 1: Stop Dressing to Disappear—Start Dressing to Direct
Wearing color doesn’t make you “too much.” It makes you memorable. For plus-size and mid-size women especially, color is an asset, not something to hide behind. Strategic use of bold hues instantly builds authority—no words needed.
💥 Style Tips That Command Attention:
Try a deep plum, emerald, or cobalt suit with a sleek neutral shell underneath—think power and polish.
Layer a structured cobalt blazer over a cream column dress to energize any boardroom.
Add bold pumps—like emerald green or scarlet red—to a black sheath dress for a balanced, eye-catching look.
👉 Explore power pieces I style clients in Wear Color.
Shift 2: Prioritize Fit Over Flattery
Your body isn’t the problem—your clothes might be.
For too long, women have been told to “flatter” by hiding. But baggy, shapeless silhouettes only erase your presence. The real key? Fit that honors your shape, gives structure, and radiates confidence.
💥 Plus-Size & Mid-Size Style Tips That Define (Not Disguise):
Opt for a belted dress that cinches your waist and elongates your frame.
Choose structured dresses with defined shoulders or a statement neckline to instantly polish your look.
Go for a wrap dress that hugs your curves and moves with ease—perfect for desk-to-dinner impact.
These aren’t “figure-fixers”—they’re presence-enhancers.
👉 See my top client-recommended dresses in Pieces with a waist.
Shift 3: Lead with Identity—Not Apology
Every outfit speaks. What’s yours saying?
Before you get dressed, ask: “What message do I want to send today?”
Especially as a plus-size or mid-size leader, your style can reinforce your voice—or undermine it.
Your clothes should reflect who you are, not who you’ve been told to be smaller for.
💥 Style with Identity-Driven Confidence:
Throw on a statement blazer that draws compliments and sets a tone of authority.
Add bold glasses, patterned scarves, or sculptural earrings that echo your personality.
Choose a luxe wrap dress or matching set in a fabric that speaks volumes—without you needing to.
This isn’t about being louder—it’s about being more you. Fully aligned, fully seen.
👉 Explore power pieces I style clients in Statement Pieces.
From Invisible to Impactful—Without Changing Your Body
You don’t need to shrink yourself to lead with presence.
These style shifts help mid-size and plus-size women own the room—whether you're running a meeting, speaking on stage, or networking at an event.
When your wardrobe is aligned with your power, you’re not just dressed—you’re directing the room.
FREE Style Masterclass for Mid-Size & Plus-Size Women in Leadership
What if the very clothes you were told to wear to “look professional”... were actually the reason you feel overlooked?
If you're tired of playing small with your style, join me for:
Ditch the Corporate Armor: Elevate Your Executive Presence & Dress for Impact
In this masterclass, you’ll discover how to:
✅ Build a streamlined wardrobe that reflects your authority and leadership
✅ Dress with confidence and clarity—without panic shopping before every event
✅ Stop letting outdated dress codes keep you invisible in high-stakes rooms
✅ Position yourself as the high-impact leader your work already proves you are
Perfect for mid-size and plus-size professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs ready to stop blending in and start commanding respect.
🚨 IMPORTANT: You MUST register using the link to attend live or receive the replay. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform how you show up—without changing your body.
Hello!
I’m Melanie — a personal stylist and confidence coach for high-achieving women who want to stand out through style.
Here, I share style tips, personal branding advice, and outfit strategies to help you get noticed and lead with confidence.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
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How to Pack for a Business Conference: A Confident, Versatile, and Minimalist Guide
Are you a woman in leadership gearing up for an important conference? It's time to show up authentically, with a wardrobe that reflects your unique style and empowers you to make a lasting impression. Here I’ll guide you through the process of packing for a conference, focusing on versatile choices, confident decision-making, stress-free travel… AND avoiding the last-minute panic! Get ready to unleash your power and embrace authenticity as you navigate the conference scene.
Stick to Two Colors for Versatility:
To maximize the versatility of your conference wardrobe, start by choosing two core colors that resonate with your personal style. Consider empowering tones like teal, burgundy, hunter green, or even prints that reflect your unique personality. These colors will serve as the foundation for your outfits, allowing you to create a cohesive and impactful look. To complement your chosen tones, it's also helpful to incorporate neutral shades like navy, blush, or camel. These neutrals can easily mix and match with your empowering colors, giving you endless possibilities for creating stylish and confident ensembles. By sticking to a cohesive color palette, you'll not only simplify your packing process but also have a wide range of outfit combinations at your fingertips, ensuring that you always look and feel your best throughout the conference.
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! An image coach for high acheiving women helping your style match your success.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
Layer Layer Layer
it's important to be prepared for varying temperatures, especially with those chilly conference venues and their relentless air conditioning. To stay comfortable and adaptable, make sure to include a selection of layering pieces in your suitcase. Lightweight cardigans, a moto jacket or a wrap are fantastic options that can be effortlessly added or removed as needed. Not only will they provide an extra layer of warmth, but they also add a touch of style to your outfits
Start With The Shoes
As a driven woman comfort is non-negotiable, especially when you're on your feet for long hours. Begin packing by selecting comfortable yet polished shoes that will keep you looking and feeling confident throughout the event, since they will take up the most space in your bag as well. Think about every situation you’ll be in when deciding. And remember a great shoe can be the perfect conversation starter.
Embrace Accessoires
Accessories can elevate your conference outfits and add a personal touch. Select a few statement pieces like a bold necklace, elegant scarf, or tasteful earrings that complement your chosen color palette. Don't forget a structured handbag or tote to hold your essentials and documents in style.
Avoid Panic Shopping and Panic Packing
Panic shopping and packing often lead to hasty choices and items that may not serve you well in the long run. Instead, plan your outfits in advance and try them on to ensure they fit well and make you feel confident. Stick to your chosen color scheme and mix and match your pieces to create various looks. Remember, quality choices over quantity will serve you best.
Traveling with Confidence
As a woman in leadership, you may find yourself in male-dominated spaces. Embrace your unique identity and approach each conference with agency, self-trust, and self-reliance. Allow your wardrobe choices to amplify your message and assert your presence. Pack essentials like comfortable yet stylish shoes that can withstand long days, and don't forget to carry yourself with the knowledge that you deserve to be seen and heard.
Always remember a conference is an opportunity to express your authentic self and make empowered choices. Your clothes shouldn't define you, but they can enhance your confidence and help you make a lasting impact. Embrace the joy of dressing, trust yourself to make empowered choices, and let your style reflect the driven and highly-intelligent woman you are. Now, go out there as you conquer the conference with authenticity and flair!
Ready to stop panicking at every invite… whether it’s a conference or a dinner with friends?
It’s time to replace bad habits with smart wardrobe decisions and have guide a style that reflects your true self. If so, I have a special invitation for you!
I’m looking for 3 women who want to demystify getting dressed and understand exactly which colors, shapes, styles, and proportions are best for you using the clothes in your closet - all in the next 30-60 days.
If that sounds like you, message me over on instagram (@melanielippman) by clicking HERE with the word EMPOWERED and I'll share the details on how to get started.
If you find getting dressed to be a challenge and often feel like you have a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear, go grab my FREE guide
5 OUTFIT MISTAKES KEEPING YOU FEELING FRUMPY & FRUSTRATED
AND EXACTLY HOW TO SOLVE THEM SO YOUR STYLE MATCHES YOUR SUCCESS
(WITHOUT NEEDING TO LOSE LBS)
“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”
Wearing White at Work: Busting Fashion Myths for a Confident Office Look
Everything you've been told about wearing white is WRONG!
Okay, let's set the record straight about wearing white. All those myths and misconceptions? Total nonsense. It's time to break free from the fashion industry's tricks and embrace the beauty of white this summer.
FASHION MYTH: WHITE MAKES YOU LOOK BIGGER
Oh boy, have we been fed this lie for ages... white makes you look larger, dark colors are slimming... so don't wear white, white show every lump and bump, so avoid it all costs!
Those magazines we read when we were teenagers were only giving us half of the truth, but have shaped how we wear or don't wear white our whole lives. But let me tell you, that's only half the story.
Here's the whole truth:
DARK COLORS RECEDE AND LIGHT COLORS ADVANCE
Light-colored clothing will draw the eye and stand out, making the area it’s covering appear prominent and larger.
How to make that fact work for you:
If you're worried about a specific area, don't pair white with a darker color there. Instead, opt for lighter shades that blend seamlessly. By creating a cohesive, balanced look, you won't draw unnecessary attention to any particular spot. It's all about finding the right balance and playing with complementary tones.
Need some inspiration? Here are a few ideas to help you rock white without highlighting specific areas:
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! An image coach for high acheiving women helping your style match your success.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
WEAR WHITE WITH A BLAZER THAT HAS SOME WHITE
In order to create that continuous column of white in an outfit, wear a blazer that has white in it paired with white pants. This way the eye will see only light colors and notice the complete look.
GO FOR AN ALL-WHITE ENSEMBLE
Embrace the monochromatic magic and wear white from head to toe. Trust me, it's a statement that oozes confidence and style. A jumpsuit the the perfect way to achieve this look. Check out a few here:
FASHION MYTH: WHITE IS NOT APPROPRIATE FOR PROSFESSIONAL SETTINGS
We've been conditioned to believe that white is reserved for casual occasions or that it's too risky for the workplace. Being given all sorts of reasons why we shouldn't wear white… everything from it gets dirty easily, it can be see-through, and specific times of year that white is inappropriate.
While white is a little high maintenance, the risk of wearing white often doesn’t outweigh the reward.
Here's the whole truth:
One of the most powerful aspects of wearing white is the aura of confidence it exudes. There's something undeniably striking about a woman who confidently rocks an all-white ensemble. It commands attention and radiates a sense of poise and self-assurance. So, embrace the power of white, own your unique style, and step into any room with your head held high.
White, a color often associated with purity, clarity, and neutrality, carries a powerful symbolism that transcends mere fashion. Let’s not forget when Hillary Clinton stepped onto the stage of the 2016 Democratic National Convention. Draped in a white pantsuit, she made a powerful statement, representing unity, hope, and the breaking of barriers. Clinton's choice to wear white echoed the suffragettes of the early 20th century, using white as a symbol of their fight for women's rights and the right to vote.
Need some inspiration? Here are a few ideas to help you wear white professionally sending messages of confidence, clarity, and neutrality:
ATTENTION TO TAILORING:
Pay attention to the fit, tailoring, and finishing of your white garments. A well-fitted white dress or a perfectly tailored white blazer can make a world of difference, exuding professionalism and attention to detail. A well tailored blazer is a great addition to your professional wardrobe:
PLAY WITH TEXTURE:
Incorporate textured white fabrics like lace, eyelet, or tweed to add depth and visual interest to your outfit. Textures can elevate the sophistication level and create a refined and polished appearance.
So, my fellow power players, let's challenge the notion that white is off-limits in professional settings. Embrace the power of white and unleash your unique style with confidence. Make a bold statement, stand out from the crowd, and show the world that professionalism and individuality can go hand in hand.
Are you ready to make power moves with white? Let's redefine what it means to be a trailblazer in the workplace. Step into your office with style, confidence, and the power of white on your side. Your presence will be unforgettable, and your career will thank you for it!
If you find getting dressed to be a challenge and often feel like you have a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear, go grab my FREE guide
5 OUTFIT MISTAKES KEEPING YOU FEELING FRUMPY & FRUSTRATED
AND EXACTLY HOW TO SOLVE THEM SO YOUR STYLE MATCHES YOUR SUCCESS
(WITHOUT NEEDING TO LOSE LBS)
How to Dress Business Casual in the Summer
What exactly is business casual?
A common reason that someone comes to work with me is because they are struggling to feel polished when not wearing a suit and feel a little too casual in their day to day.
Which is completely understandable because there is no clear definition of what business casual dress is…
Business casual is typically defined as no jeans, no shorts, no short dresses or skirts for women, optional ties for men, and a rotation of button-downs or blouses.
Business casual dressing is more about avoiding a list of "don'ts" than following a list of "dos" and can vary slightly depending on style, preference, and who you are meeting with that day.
The lack of clarity around this leaves women that like following rules and never want to be caught off guard feeling unsettled spending a lot of time attempting to figure out what to wear.
Instead of a list of don'ts, here are a few business casual ideas for summer.
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! An image coach for high acheiving women helping your style match your success.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
JUMPSUITS
Jumpsuits are perfect for business casual, just like the one my client Melissa wore for her photoshoot. They have a little more personality than a suit and you can remove the blazer if you going out after work.
TO THE KNEE SKIRTS
While the length and tightness may vary depending on your practice area, skirts that reach about knee-length (or below) are always safe. In terms of color, business casual doesn't have too many restrictions... so have fun with color!
SHORTS SUITS
There’s a little controversy with this one, but I love them! Shorts suit were spotted last year and are back again in a big way! All I can say is know you audience and what makes you feel confident, because in order to pull this one off you need to OWN THE LOOK! A great place to try out a short suit is at a retreat or a women’s conference.
COLORFUL PANTS
Colorful pants are the perfect way to add interest to an outfit and a business casual setting the perfect time to try them. I suggest buying a pair that has a color you have in a few printed tops so you are not just wearing them with a black top and calling that an outfit.
As with everything when it comes to getting dressed, there are so many options out there that it can often feel overwhelming and intimidating. Instead of feeling like there are too many options and just stick with your not very exciting outfits… I encourage you to pick one of the above and give it a try! Let me know which you are going to try by sending me a message over on instagram by clicking here.
If you find getting dressed to be a challenge and often feel like you have a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear, go grab my FREE guide
5 OUTFIT MISTAKES KEEPING YOU FEELING FRUMPY & FRUSTRATED
AND EXACTLY HOW TO SOLVE THEM SO YOUR STYLE MATCHES YOUR SUCCESS
(WITHOUT NEEDING TO LOSE LBS)
How to Switch from Skinny Jeans to Straight Leg Jeans: A Modern Denim Guide
I know that you've heard a time or two that skinny jeans are no longer in-style. If you've been around me for any amount of time, you know I'm not one a fan of being a trend victim and to always wear what's suited for you.
That being said.... skinny jeans are not flattering on a lot of women.
But a lot of women have kept wearing them, because they knew how to wear them.
May I introduce Mom Jeans... Mom jeans are typically straight-leg, high waisted jeans, and often a light or mid wash color.
A big outfit struggle I hear when introducing a new jean style is which shoe to wear with the jean. Here’s a breakdown of what shoes work well with mom jeans.
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! An image coach for high acheiving women helping your style match your success.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
SHOES WITH STRAIGHT JEANS: LOAFERS
I love my loafer mules – they’re a super versatile pair of shoes that you can wear for work, everyday, church, date night, or anything. You can choose a pair of loafers that aren’t slip-on, but mom jeans and straight leg jeans absolutely work with any style of loafers.
SHOES WITH STRAIGHT LEG JEANS: LOW CUT SNEAKERS
Sneakers are great choice to wear with mom jeans! Choose ones that are low cut and slim to help elongate your leg line and show some ankle.
SHOES WITH STRAIGHT LEG JEANS: FLAT SANDALS
Of course, flat sandals work with everything! They’re a great choice with mom jeans or straight leg jeans during the spring and summer when it’s hot. Just skip the flip flops and choose a pair of sandals that are a little nicer.
SHOES WITH STRAIGHT JEANS: HEELED SANDALS
You can absolutely dress up your mom and straight leg jeans! Just throw on a blouse and some block heel sandals for a chic and semi-dressed up feel.
Shoes are often an often an afterthought, but typically one of the biggest reasons women struggle to get dressed each morning. They also play a crucial role in completing your overall look and can greatly impact your comfort and confidence throughout the day.
If you find getting dressed to be a challenge and often feel like you have a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear, go grab my FREE guide
5 OUTFIT MISTAKES KEEPING YOU FEELING FRUMPY & FRUSTRATED
AND EXACTLY HOW TO SOLVE THEM SO YOUR STYLE MATCHES YOUR SUCCESS
(WITHOUT NEEDING TO LOSE LBS)
Using your Personal Style as a Tool
I often speak about the power of using your personal style and developing a signature style brand to engage and develop trust. I give examples of iconic women that we would know who they are without even seeing their faces… women like Jackie O, Kate Middleton, and Michelle Obama.
Of course these women have and have had access to experts, stylists, designers, and aren’t limited by much of a budget; but they have more than that. The realized that fashion is more than the clothes they put on their body… they use clothing as a strategic tool!
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
The Clothes We Wear Sends Signals
Your clothing sends out all sorts of messages and you want to make sure those messages are aligned with who you are & your goals! The colors, structure, and patterns of your clothes send messages about your personality and your overall tone.
Let’s use another female in politics as an example… or at least on TV … If you think of Robin Wright's character on House of Cards, Claire Underwood.. her style was a main character on the show. When the show first started out, prior to her husband being in the White House, she could be found in understated looks that wasn’t too flashy. But when Claire began her official duties as first lady, the clothing choices began to shift. She started wearing clothes that were very tailored and structured…. signaling that she is very confident and always [seemed] to be in control of herself. She also stopped wearing muted tones and wore jade green and burgundy.
In the show’s final season, Claire in full Madam President mode, stepped out in sharp dress suits befitting the most powerful person in the world. The buttoned-up, stretchy wool-crepe attire often embraces an appropriate presidential blue conveying the seriousness of a military commander ready for war. It’s a stark contrast to Claire’s early days of playing the supporting role to her power-hungry husband Francis Underwood
How Can You Start Using Your Clothes as a Tool?
The great thing about our clothes is that they can easily be changed to either align with your brand and enhance your message, but where do you start? Well like most things… the first step is to realize that clothes are in-fact powerful and need to treated that way. You must stop throwing on random outfits without giving them much thought… and start dressing with some strategy!
Over the next few weeks I am going to break down the all of the messages that your clothes are or not sending.
It’s your turn…. Which iconic woman’s style do you love ??? Let me know by emailing me here and I help you incorporate the look into your wardrobe
If you'd like personalized, one on one help stepping out of style OVERWHELM and into your power AND ready get to your next level... I’m inviting you to book a call with me to discuss whether my signature program, Brand Yourself with Style, is a fit for you.
Book your call now!
You’ll have 30 minutes of my undivided attention… This will be the BEST time you have EVER spent on yourself and your business.
If you feel like this is the right opportunity for you, click here, and book a call to go over your goals.
I'll walk you through the quickest and easiest way to achieve them through Brand Yourself with Style.
Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
Attracting Your Ideal Client through Personal Style Branding
Last week I wrote to you about why it's more important then ever to get dressed, since you are marketing yourself on social media.
In just 3 seconds someone decides whether they’re going to stick around to engage with you OR take off and never come back.
If you missed this you can check it out here.
Now that we’ve established that you want to dress to command attention, How exactly do you accomplish that?
I'm so happy you asked…
By creating a connection with your audience that immediately develops know, like, and trust through you own personal brand style. I know what you maybe thinking… ugghhh… I don't know what my style is nor do I have the time to figure it out!
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
1. Defining your personal brand style in a way that makes you instantly recognizable, memorable and seen as a leader, someone to listen to, someone with natural authority.
2. Developing your style is EASY… yup, as easy as 3 words!
And by doing this, you’re going to know exactly what to wear and what not to wear regardless of the occasion…
I work with my clients to develop a 3-word personal style statement to guide them in selecting clothes and accessories and making choices about their appearance.
You’re going to want to choose 3 words that support your brand and feel like you.
My style is friendly, polished, and fashion forward. Which means that everything I wear has all 3 of these qualities. And you’ll notice that my website and social media has these qualities too.
It really does make shopping and dressing a whole lot easier, guiding your everyday choices so you can show up in a way that supports your message and reaffirms your status as a leader, a messenger, and perhaps even an icon.
Ideally you want at least one word that creates distinction. You don’t want all 3 words to have the same tone and texture or it doesn’t make for a distinct style.
Once you get the hang of your 3-word style statement, you’ll know what to wear for your photo shoot or on your next video.
One caveat here, make sure your style statement complements your business and your core personal attributes.
For example, if you’re an Attorney for Fortune 500 companies, a style statement that’s outrageous, flirty, grunge may undermine your credibility or at least raise a few eyebrows.
So now let’s talk about you. Here’s a list of fashion and style words. Choose 3 that really express you!
Your personal style must make you instantly recognizable, memorable and seen as a leader, someone to listen to, someone with natural authority.
If you'd like personalized, one on one help stepping out of style OVERWHELM and into your power AND ready get to your next level... I’m inviting you to book a call with me to discuss whether my signature program, Brand Yourself with Style, is a fit for you.
Book your call now!
You’ll have 30 minutes of my undivided attention… This will be the BEST time you have EVER spent on yourself and your business.
If you feel like this is the right opportunity for you, click here, and book a call to go over your goals.
I'll walk you through the quickest and easiest way to achieve them through Brand Yourself with Style.
Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
Is Getting Dressed More Important Now That You Are Working From Home?
I've been having loads of conversations about work from home outfits and been asked many times if getting dressed really matter any more. My answer is NOW more than EVER, especially if you are client facing or looking to expand your network!
Is what you wear more important now that we are working from home?
People decide within 5 seconds of meeting you if they are going to do business with you! This research shows that our brains are hard-wired to decide within 3-7 seconds of meeting, visiting your website, watching those first seconds of video, or quick scroll of an Instagram feed what they think of you.
In just 3 seconds they decide whether they’re going to stick around to engage with you OR take off and never come back.
Missing that tiny window to catch someone’s eye can be critical for your biz! That person could work for that fortune 500 client you’ve been wanting to sign, your next success story, a new collaborator that brings you 100 new contacts... you name it!
You never know who is going to find you and where they’ll first encounter you, so it’s imperative to present a conscious and consistent face to the world, enabling you to transform first impressions into lasting relationships and that all starts with looking the part.
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
Making those 3 seconds memorable by getting dressed
Many people put on clothes without much thought or throw together a sloppy website and think it’s okay because people are just going to recognize your brilliance through it all. Quick decisions based on limited information is the only way we have time to get anything done in this world.
The reality is — if you don’t look the part — if how you present yourself to the world doesn’t support your message and lend credibility to what you do, you’re dead in the water. No one’s going to trust you with their hard-earned money if you’re not sending signals that model your work and the transformation you promise.
So why do we all go around expecting other people will treat us differently, expecting other people will automatically get how important our message is and just see us for who we are, regardless of whether we’ve taken the time to really put ourselves out there in a way that commands their attention… to dress the part.
Your personal style must make you instantly recognizable, memorable and seen as a leader, someone to listen to, someone with natural authority.
If you'd like personalized, one on one help stepping out of style OVERWHELM and into your power AND ready get to your next level... I’m inviting you to book a call with me to discuss whether my signature program, Brand Yourself with Style, is a fit for you.
Book your call now!
You’ll have 30 minutes of my undivided attention… This will be the BEST time you have EVER spent on yourself and your business.
If you feel like this is the right opportunity for you, click here, and book a call to go over your goals.
I'll walk you through the quickest and easiest way to achieve them through Brand Yourself with Style.
Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
How to attract dream clients online with your personal style
The good old boys way of marketing doesn’t speak to the savvy empowered women you want to work with… but how exactly do you connect with busy sophisticated women that you will to fill your calendar with… and could see yourself opening a bottle of wine on with on the weekend?
When I mention online presence and marketing… you should see the look on my client’s faces, you would think I am trying to sell them some instant miracle voodoo that gets them to lose 30 lbs overnight… that’s because we have all been approached this way on social media being sold something. But that’s not what I’m talking about.
Now more than ever intelligent decision-making women are online look for solutions to their problems… everything from how do I get my kid to sleep in their own bed to I am being treated unfairly at work and I want to sue. Need proof… visit any mom, keto, or Peloton facebook group… lots of support and solutions at your fingertips!
So how are you going to connect with these fabulous women and not get lost in sea of online noise?
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
1. Know your ideal client
You are a version of your ideal client… you have similar fears, likes, dislikes… you may not be in the exact position as her, but you may have been there at some point in your life. How do you want to be marketed to? What creeps you out and what gets you wanting more? How do you like to connect with people online? What would get you to stop the scroll… a beautiful pair of shoes? A unique color combination? A candid picture of someone reading a book by an author you love? Think of marketing as dating or becoming friends with someone… what would make you go up to someone at an event and start a conversation with them? Show this in your marketing
2. Be Where Your Target Audience Is
The more your ideal clients get exposed to your brand, the more likely they are to follow you. That’s why you should find out where your customers spend most of their time on, be it online or offline, and then persistently interact with them in an authentic way.
3. Elevate Yourself through Personal Branding
As mentioned, people are attracted to those they can relate to. You can take advantage of that fact by creating a strong brand image that reflects your personality and core values. Your clothing, especially when showing pictures and videos of yourself on your website, social media, or video conference… is a huge part of your personal brand. When our eyes land on someone we form a first impression and 55% of that first impression is based on what you are wearing. Be sure to show your unique personality with your style to stand out.
4. Be Strategic and Consistent When it Comes to Style
Develop a consistent look when it comes to your personal style. Most people tend to think style is about always being new and different, but that is the furthest from the truth when it comes to personal branding. People develop a sense of loyalty to businesses that offer consistent quality. Create a brand color palette and signature style for your clothing and keep on showing up in those colors and styles. The idea is for your clients to rely on you and when they know what to expect from you… they will hire you to be their advocate.
5. Confidently Show off Your Value With Your Clothing
What can you offer to your ideal clients? How can you make their lives more comfortable or how do you solve a problem they are continuously encountering? You have to be confident and show up like a leader every day… not when you feel like it! Instead of simply talking about your values, show them to them through your clothing. If your client values innovation, you aren’t going to want to be wearing the black suit everyone else is wearing. If your client needs you to be sympathetic, your clothing should showcase someone that is compassionate. Know that your clothing is sending out messages and make sure they are in line with what your ideal client needs to hear!
Now that you know how you should be showing up online… get started, don’t wait until it’s perfect… Perfection is the enemy of creativity and these days you are going to need to be creative to stand out!
Need some help figuring out how to translate what is in your closet into your online personal brand? That is what I’m an expert at and would love to chat with you about it… use the link below to book a call!
Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
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How to Find Your Style When Times are Different
We are all in some sort of style rut simply because things are different. You might have your go-to outfits for the office or when presenting in front of a group of people, but that’s not the case anymore. What’s happening for us and the world right now makes your typical outfit feel different. Your clothing needs to serve a different purpose at this moment and you need it to support you in other ways.
It’s important to still feel confident in your clothes, now more than ever. So how do you get some pep back into your style step?
Take a look at what’s working in your closet
There are definitely a few items that you own that are in constant rotation to go out, run errands, or go to work. Maybe you’re not allowing yourself to wear them because you’re only at home. Well pull them out and let’s evaluate them!
1. You have something, right? There is something style-wise that you have going on. You can always wear and trust those go-to items, although you probably say “I don’t have clothes that support me to feel confident in my wardrobe.”
2. What is working about that those constant items? Is it their comfort level? That you’re able to wash them and not take them to the cleaners? Are you gravitating towards certain colors right now?
Take a look at what’s not working in your closet
1. What are you not wearing at the moment and why? Are you not wearing it because it’s not right for this moment (you’re not wearing sheath dresses to your dining room office), or do you actually not like those pieces (if they don’t make you feel good, I give you permission to get rid of them).
2. What do you not have enough of? Are you wearing the same two bright-colored tops over and over again, because you are no longer wearing dresses?
Maybe your wardrobe just needs some revamping to adjust to challenging times…
How to shop for clothing that you actually need and will wear
You should always take a look at your current closet prior to going shopping to get a true understanding of what is working and what isn’t working, so you are not shopping blindly. This will insure that your purchases will have an impact on your wardrobe as opposed to randomly buying the same thing that hasn’t worked in the past. This will put an end to the clothes that are hanging in your closet with the tags still on them.
Make a list of the items that you actually need
Let’s say you need a few tops to wear on zoom, a casual summer dress, and a pair of sandals that can be worn to a BBQ (you don’t want to get those heels stuck in the grass!). Write that down!
Figure out how much you are willing to spend before going shopping
Before you start shopping, decide how much money you are willing to spend on each piece. So, “x” amount for each top, “x” amount for the dress, and “x” amount for the sandals.
This is the key! As women, when we think of going shopping, we put ourselves in this mindset that we are going to spend too much money., so we start limiting ourselves and holding ourselves back from purchasing something that we truly love!
Shopping for clothes doesn’t have to be expensive
Shopping can be expensive if you buy a bunch of stuff that you don’t want or need, but If you are investing wisely, it’s never wasteful.
When you think about shopping this way it will never feel expensive.
Shopping mindset
It is also important to see what you are willing to spend a little more on and what you’re not willing to splurge for. The items you are willing to spend more on should be the items that will have the most impact on your wardrobe, promise that’s the case!
It’s so important to think about money when buying something. You can place a value on what each piece will do for you and your wardrobe. So, if you don’t like something that comes in the mail, simply return it instead of holding on to it just because “it’s okay.” Giving our clothing value gives us more control when we’re buying things, but more importantly it keeps us engaged with our style and makes it purposeful.
Spending wisely and purposefully makes our style not only look good, but feel good!
Need help shopping online reasonably?
If this sounds like a great idea and theory but you haven’t been able to do this work on your own, YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!! This is not easy stuff to accomplish by yourself, especially when you have tons of other things going on. I’ve opened a few spots on my calendar next week for you to get on the phone to discuss how you can stop letting your clothing be a sticking point for you. Click here to get on my calendar.
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
Related Posts:
What's Your Style Story?
What is your story with clothing?
That internal dialogue that you have about clothing
Having some additional time at home has given us some time to think about things a little differently. I've had many conversations with women about what getting dressed means to them and their relationship with their clothing.... and we are not talking about their superficial surface relationship with clothing. Clothing isn’t an acquaintance we nod and smirk at… clothing supports us, gives a glimpse at who we are, and is the largest form on non-verbal communication.
So, what is your style story?
We are laying on the couch, going deep and discussing all of the things.
Your internal dialogue that you have about clothing may sound something like this…
👉I love leather, but I shouldn’t wear leather pants to a meeting because it’s not conservative enough
👉 Florals are beautiful, but I don’t want to come off as too feminine
👉 Leopard makes me feel powerful, but I don’t want them to think I’m trying to look young
What makes these thoughts “my style story?”
These thoughts come from somewhere much deeper. They may come from a friend in high school that once mentioned your long neck, going to a religious school with a dress code, or a comment from a college boyfriend’s friend about how short your skirt is.
The memories of these stories may fade in our minds, but they are always there in our subconscious, they are in the fitting room with us, they are in our closets, and they are definitely in your eyes when we look in the mirror!
These are the stories that make us who we are… they mold us, give us strength, and make us unstoppable.
The most important part of our style story is to be aware of when it is helping us and when it is holding us back!
Notice what comes up when you have really strong feelings about clothing. If you love it or hate it, being uncomfortable means that you are at the edge of stepping into your highest self, it’s our 2 million year old brain trying to protect us from being hurt!
Remind yourself that these are just stories, limiting beliefs that hold us back. Have an honest conversation with yourself about your personal style, what you like, who you want to attract to you, who you want to look like. This isn’t always an easy process. I always have clients go through visioning exercises to see themselves without the stories. The end result is a remarkable blend of personal style and personal power!
In the words of Glennon Doyle “UNTAME your inner cheetah and remember your power... she’s in there!”
So what is your story with clothing? email me here to let me know!
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
Related Posts:
Use Your Wardrobe to Look Polished and Professional on Video
While we are practicing social distancing, what to wear on a video conference to appear polished and professional
Companies around the world are having employees work remotely. Whether you’re a newbie or Work From Home pro, being comfortable on video is important to stay productive.
It’s realistic to assume that shifting to the ‘home office’ will become the new normal for many of us for a while, given that the coronavirus has officially reached ‘pandemic’ status and we are practicing social distancing.
Now that you’re spending time on screen, it’s worthwhile considering what works on screen to give you the most credibility and the look of professionalism.
What to Wear on a Video Conference
Just like an in person meeting, when getting dressed think about how you want to be perceived on your video call. If it’s a business call and you want to be seen as more credible, confident and authoritative. Therefore you want to look polished, professional, and not wear anything that would distract from what you are trying to accomplish on your call.
Wearing patterns on a Video Conference
If you are looking for an easy to follow rule, on camera go for solids over patterns most of the time as they are easier to look at.
Large patterns can they can dominate and take attention away from your face and your message.
It’s also advised to avoid busy patterns, such as stripes, animal prints, or plaid. Not only are they highly distracting to the viewer, but they also appear distorted and dizzying on camera.
Even though florals and animal prints are extremely popular and the perfect way to show your personality, it’s best to keep them for in person meetings. A good tip to keep in mind when choosing a pattern is to try not to look like a jungle animal or your grandma’s couch!
How does color appear on video conferencing?
Colors like teal, cobalt, purple and coral pop on screen. Wearing a top in one of these bright shades will really warm up your face.
Avoid white, bright red and all-black tops on Video.
All three of these colors pose technical problems.
When wearing white the camera finds it hard to get the balance right causing a look of overexposure along with a distracting glow. A small amount of white is okay peeking out from under a blazer or a cardigan, but your best bet is to opt for a light blue
If your top/shirt is white, make sure it’s not see through… an outline or pattern of an undergarment would be very distracting for yours if you notice it during a call as well as those you’re chatting with.
Black poses a similar challenge…. the camera is confused by black causing the color to look too dark. The definition of your garment will be lost, so you’ll look shapeless.
Bright red sometimes “bleeds” on camera, giving off a slight, hazy halo.
How to accessorize on video conference calls
If you are in a business environment, a scarf can also work to add contrast and interest to your portrait area. Just make sure it’s not too bulky so that you don’t look like it’s overwhelming you!
You want to make sure that any jewelry isn’t distracting.
Make sure your jewelry isn’t overly sparkly to the point that it’s catching the light and creating a disco ball effect around the room.
Avoid big dangly earrings. They are fun but on a small screen when all we are seeing is your upper body, they can be distracting especially if they make any noise.
In fact be wary of noisy jewelry, clanking bracelets are also not advised on a video conference as your microphone will pick up and amplify these kinds of distracting noises.
A necklace can help to draw attention to your face, but this is not the time for it to be too huge and statement, which can detract from your message.
If you need to wear glasses make sure they have a non-reflective coating.
On Video Conferencing, it’s all about the fit
A blazer that’s too tight will have you tugging at it, either consciously or unconsciously, and create a distraction to the person on the other side of the screen.
The same can be said about any item of clothing that is ill-fitted, whether it’s too big or too small.
Clothing with too much drape and folds doesn’t look good on camera.
A collar is a good way of making yourself look professionally dressed when on screen, whether this is a shirt or blouse with a collar, or a jacket over your top, wearing a collar says you mean business.
A knit top with a soft jacket that fits well at the shoulders and front is a good option to look authoritative but approachable.
Make sure clothing doesn’t bunch up when you sit down, your garments should lie smooth and flat when sitting.
Items of clothing that should be exempt from your video conferencing wardrobe include:
Tank tops/ spaghetti strap tops
Low-cut tops
Crop tops
Anything sheer or mesh
Other Things to Consider When Being on a Video Conference
Beware of what your hands are doing. They need to be in frame as you speak, but steepling separates you from your audience.
Keep your head straight as it gives you a more authoritative appearance.
Poor body language will undermine your credibility very quickly on screen.
Look directly at the camera – position your own camera box right underneath the video camera so that you are not looking off to the side at yourself during a call. Looking away from the camera makes you appear disinterested or unengaged.
It’s very obvious when on a computer if you look away at something else on your screen, don’t undermine your credibility when on a video conference by looking at your phone, or doing other things while on the computer. Imagine you are in the same room and behave in the same way, giving the speaker your full attention.
Practice makes Perfect for Video Conferencing!
It’s definitely a good idea to try video conferencing with a friend to get feedback on lighting, camera position, lighting, background and outfit choice to make sure that you are presenting the image you want and one that doesn’t reduce your professional presence.
Do you feel like you’re more confident video conferencing? Please contact me here with any questions you still have about what to wear on video!
Since this is the direction the we are moving in, please share with post your colleagues, friends, and family to help them comfortably and confidently be able to get on a video meeting!
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
Related Posts:
Using Jewelry to Enhance and Polish Your Outfits
For me, jewelry is very personal. My family owned a jewelry store when I was growing up and I worked corporately in the jewelry industry for 10 years before styling. I have a very emotional connection to jewelry. But as a stylist, jewelry is a powerful accessory with so many benefits and uses. I love getting jewelry as gifts, but I am particular about what I like and want because I know the importance of jewelry to my personal style. Jewelry is personal and can be such an important part of your wardrobe.
Jewelry means so many different things to so many different people. Some people love it, wear it, treasure it. Others don't care about it and can hardly be bothered to wear it. There are also a lot of people who don't know HOW to wear jewelry. Some people wear WAY too much. Others are afraid of looking gaudy or foolish, so they avoid it.
Why is jewelry so important?
Jewelry can be what completes an outfit. It can tie various pieces together and can make a look appear more polished. It helps to make you look like you got dressed purposefully, you didn't just throw on the first thing you touched. Jewelry makes it look like you put some thought into what you were wearing.
You can use it to accentuate your positive features. When you throw on a long necklace, it draws a person's eyes up and down, making you look thinner and longer right away. It draws attention away from the hips and the center of the body. Shorter necklaces and statement earrings draw attention to the face and away from any other parts of your body. Cuffs, bangles or other bracelets detract attention from your arms and chest and brings it to your hips. Wearing dainty pieces will make you look bigger, and if you're smaller wearing large pieces of jewelry will make you look weighed down. Figure out where you want to draw attention to and decide what you want to achieve with your look before choosing your jewelry.
Jewelry enhances more than just your features
Jewelry can also save an outfit that's not quite perfect. I've mentioned before that black is not a flattering color on anyone. It drains your face of its natural color. BUT, let's say your favorite dress is black and you're just not willing to give it up. An easy way to improve the dress is to throw on a colorful necklace.
Not only can jewelry impact your look, but it can also affect how you interact with others. If you're a person who likes to make a statement, jewelry is an excellent tool for that. There are enough unique pieces out there for you to find some fantastic pieces that create a statement about who YOU are and what you represent.
If you're someone who networks for work, charity, or social purposes, your jewelry can also be a conversation starter. For women who find it hard to start a conversation in networking situations, wearing something exciting like a unique piece of jewelry may inspire someone to ask about it, starting a natural conversation.
Don’t be afraid of wearing jewelry!
If you're worried about looking gaudy, or you're afraid of wearing too much jewelry, consider where you're going. You can tone it down for work but if you're going to a wedding or networking/social event, wear a little bit more attention-getting pieces. I’ve created to fabulous tool to ensure your outfits aren’t too much or too plain… but are just right. Click here to check it out.
My last piece of advice is to take some risks! Jewelry doesn't have to match anymore. There used to be a lot of rules against mixing metals or stone colors, but those rules are outdated. You can mix up, just make sure that the mixture makes sense with your outfit.
I want women to enjoy adding jewelry to their outfits and not see it has a nuisance. Reach out if you want some help sprucing up your wardrobe with jewelry or some new pieces for this season!
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
Related posts:
4 Ways to Confidently Style a Business Casual Outfit
Dress codes can be so confusing… especially when they are unclear. The idea of a business casual environment is meant to empower you and let you be creative, but what if the idea of being creative stresses you out?
My goal is to take all of the stress and confusion out of getting dressed. I’m all about taking the work out of dressing for work and sharing my best tips for dressing casually while still looking put together.
The idea of a business casual environment is meant to empower you and let you be creative, but what if the idea of being creative stresses you out?
Not having rules can lead to lots of questions and cause overwhelm and confusion. To quote Bene Brown “Clear is kind.” When are rules helpful? When are they restrictive? And of course, when can they be broken? This comes up a lot when we’re talking about personal and professional style, especially as more industries embrace a casual dress code — which often means less structure, and more confusion about what is office appropriate.
What is “Business Casual?”
Can you wear sneakers with a dress? Is a blazer always formal? How can you look relaxed but still refined? A casual dress code can be intimidating because it means different things to different people (like that guy in your office who wears shorts on Fridays), but the key to pulling off a casual look that doesn’t look sloppy is to focus on styling. Yep, like a well-worded email, it’s all in the details.
My goal is to take all of the stress and confusion out of getting dressed. I’m all about taking the work out of dressing for work and sharing my best tips for dressing casually while still looking put together.
1. Mix and Match Formalwear with Casualwear
Wearing formal items with more casual ones is the quickest way to make an outfit look and feel more relaxed. For every casual piece you put on, grab something a little more polished or upleved.
I love pairing a casual top, like a relaxed boyfriend shirt, with a pencil skirt…. Top it off with a statement necklace or a unique pair of earrings and you good to go.
Another high/low tip is to take a more formal outfit and bring it down a few inches — literally. For instance, a pair of tailored pants and a blouses are elevated by heels, but made more relaxed with a pair of sneakers. There are so many great hybrid sneaker/ shoe options that are out right now that can dress down your business outfit…
Check out a few of my client go to’s here…
If sneakers at the office aren’t your thing, try mixing casual and more formal fabrics. I love the look of a casual white t shirt with a more formal skirt or pair of pants. Which leads me to the next tip…
2. Make An Elevated T-Shirt Your Go-To Top
Yes, you can and should wear t-shirts to work especially when paired correctly. A simple t-shirt can take you from Monday through Friday, think of it like a blank canvas. You can add color, prints, whatever you want to do- it’s a necessity for your wardrobe.
A put-together, relaxed-but-refined wardrobe is full of basic tees, but they don’t have to be the regular cotton variety. More structured and polished knits, look just as crisp with jeans as they do with your suit. One thing I like to do with client’s pieces is to maximize their wear.
3. Trade in your blazer for a vest
Think of a vest as a “modern twist” on a blazer.
Vests are understandably a somewhat intimidating layering piece. If the proportions are off they can look unnecessary and fussy — and make you look bigger than you are. Here are some tips that will prevent you from looking like a crossing guard or a girl scout:
With a shorter vest, wearing a shirt that is noticeably longer helps balance the look. If you are petite, be careful that the top is not too long, as it will overwhelm your frame. Wearing this with a long-sleeve shirt is a great look.
A long vest is easy and forgiving to wear. Depending on your frame, you may need to have the vest tailored for the perfect length. A good seamstress can help you find that perfect length, but as a rule of thumb, consider having it be the same length as your favorite sheath dresses. Pairing a dress with a vest is a great look.
This isn't always an easy look to pull off, but if you're going to do it keep this one thing in mind: fit is key. Just like with a blazer the it fits your body,the better you will look. This may mean that the vest should be fitted at the waist or have a belt to create a waistline.
When you find a style that works for you, you'll find that vests make cool and creative layering pieces for a contemporary look.
4. Roll A Sleeve The Relaxed Way– by Leaving out the Cuff
When it comes to button downs, it’s the way you cuff a sleeve that really indicates what kind of business you’re getting into, as some cuffs look sloppy while others look purposeful. For a more formal look, a button down can be worn perfectly ironed and buttoned up under a suit jacket. But, for a more casual look, go a little oversized and unbutton the top two buttons, roll up the sleeves, and you’ll immediately look like someone who’s ready to get down and dirty. Another option is to leave the actual cuff out of your roll. When you roll up a sleeve, leave the cuff out of the roll, so the harder clothing parts are part of a casual action you are taking.
Another important tip for making your basic button downs look a little more purposefully relaxed. “Sizing is something you want to play with when you’re considering dressing in a relaxed format. If you are a true size 6, you might want to try a size 8 to give a little more ease. Especially with a button down- maybe you roll up a sleeve instead of getting your proper size. Another option is to try a more relaxed fit, like a boyfriend style.
Check out some boyfriend relaxed button downs below….
My Final Pointers for Confidently Dressing in a Business Casual Environment
Know your office — and yourself. If you’re more comfortable in formal clothes like sheath dresses (if you’re transitioning from a formal office to a casual one) try to add in fun shoes, jewelry, and other accessories to make your look more “business casual.” If you’re more comfortable in casual clothes like jeans, and want to dress it up, find things like comfortable sweater blazers to polish your casual look.
Seek a good balance between structured looks like sheath dresses, and more casual, unstructured looks, like waterfall cardigans, I advised a young woman seeking advice on how to dress in Silicon Valley. This is such a challenging environment to dress business casual because some people are dressed very casually and some people are dressed very formally.
Remember that professionalism comes from how you act as well as how you dress- so if you’re really freaked out, glide on the more conservative side until you are ready to start experimenting.
Is it okay to show your personal style at work? I say yes! showing your personal style in the office creates connection and starts conversation. Looking for ideas on how to appropriately show off your style in the office? Check this out.
I’m a firm believer in being true to yourself, knowing your limits, and what makes your feel comfortable and feel confident. Please make to always be yourself when getting dressed!
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
5 Ways to Bring Sexy Back into Your Wardrobe
It is so important to remember who you were before all of those obligations for so many reasons… you’re mom than a mom, more than a wife… you’re a dynamic powerhouse, whether or not you feel that way at the moment.
Just in time for valentine’s day… it’s time to get some sexy back into your wardrobe.
Do you ever look at yourself in the mirror or in pictures and think when did this happen?
When you were dating you had it going on… you wore cute, or dare we say, “sexy” outfits. You had time to go shopping and may have even had some fun planning what you were going to wear on a Saturday night. Between your family, work, and everything else you have going on you don’t have time or the “wear with all” to create an alluring outfit.
It’s time to bring sexy back into your wardrobe, it’s exactly what you’re missing!
It is so important to remember who you were before all of those obligations for so many reasons… you’re mom than a mom, more than a wife… you’re a dynamic powerhouse, whether or not you feel that way at the moment.
1. Show off your shape with your clothes
I’m not saying walk around with all your assets hanging out, but wearing figure flattering clothing is the key to enhancing your allure. It’s a common myth that wearing baggy clothing helps you look slimmer, but it’s actually the opposite.
Everyone has their own unique assets, so choose the clothes that best accentuate yours. Ask yourself what you love about yourself and learn how to show it off!
If you think your arms are sexy, fill your closet with sleeveless tops.
If you love the way your back looks, buy some tops and dresses that have open backs.
If your legs are your favorite body part, shorter skirts and skinny jeans are perfect for you.
2. Combine your casual clothing with sexier pieces
Incorporate some feel good pieces into your everyday wardrobe, so you feel great about yourself at a casual dinner and on a date night. Creating a balance between flirtatious and casual in your everyday life by mixing up lengths, styles, and fits. You can wear things that drapes for a casual look combined with something tight to add a bit of appeal, or you can show off your legs with a skirt while wearing a more modest top.
Combine a shorter skirt with a relaxed sweater or shorts with a baggy top tucked in
Pair a low cut shirt or a tight turtleneck with a pair of wide-leg pants or a jogger.
Throw on those jeans that accentuate your curves with a flowy top. You can also belt the top to show off your waist.
Wear an animal print, this fun and extremely popular print shows off your wild side.
3. Adding romantic textures to your outfit contribute to your sexy look
I recently wrote a post on how to create polished outfits, without looking like you’re trying to hard, if you missed it you can check it out here.
A favorite way to create outfit interest is to use texture like tweed, suede, and leather to name a few. There are a few textures that have send flirtatious messages.
Black pants are sexier when they're black leather or faux leather pants.
A lace top will allow you to subtly show some skin while still looking relaxed and casual.
Wearing a soft texture like cashmere is very appealing and makes someone want to touch you.
4. Yes! Red really is sexy
The power of red is real!
It has been proven time and again in studies that there are several biological factors that actually make women appear more attractive to men when wearing red and that women perceive men as being more dominant when wearing red. So yes, wearing red will scientifically make you sexier, even if it's something as casual as a t-shirt!
5. Being sexy can be effortless
Trying to be somebody you're not is never a good idea, and it's obvious to others. Instead of trying to change yourself, embrace what's naturally appealing about you. The more comfortable you appear, the sexier you'll look – no matter how casual your outfit is. If you're not a dress girl, you don't have to wear dresses to be sexy. Instead, throw on some figure flattering pants with a beautiful top, and step out with confidence.
When you’re confident and comfortable
you are attractive…
Both physically and mentally.
Don’t hesitate to be a little sexy!
When you haven’t been putting so much effort into being alluring, you may feel a little silly putting in the effort at the beginning. But then it comes to self love, a little goes a long way. You have to remember who you were before all the commitments piled up and how much fun you had! It won’t happen overnight. Take your time, and know that if it’s taking longer than you expected, it will just be even more worth it in the end. Keep going and don’t give up… those around you will appreciate your effort
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
------------
Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
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How to Look Polished, But Not Like You're Trying too Hard
Getting dressed is all about blending in and standing out simultaneously. That fine line between being polished, but not looking like you're trying to hard. Not an easy task when you have about 10 other things on your plate at any given time. Here’s 5 ways a personal stylist uses to get excitement into a wardrobe
Getting dressed is all about blending in and standing out simultaneously. That fine line between being polished, but not looking like you're trying too hard. Not an easy task when you have about 10 other things on your plate at any given time.
How do we go about creating this perfect balance of fashion Yin and Yang? How do we look polished and professional, but not like we’re doing too much?
By having a foundation of go to classics that you are are able to mix and match and wear in a variety of ways.
Do you have those pieces in your closet? If you’re not sure, last weeks post that outlines those items... Check it out here if you missed it.
What about standing out, while not doing too much?
How do you create some excitement in your wardrobe without looking like you have put way too much effort?
By wearing something that is unique and in line with our personal style to add some drama to your look. If you need some help figuring out what your style is…. Check out this post.
Let’s think about it for a moment… you’re in a room and don’t know anyone… you look around the sea of black wrap dresses and you spot a women across the room in leopard pumps and a leather blazer. Even if you don’t particularly like animal print, she stands out and has given you a reason to go and speak with her… “wow those are some great shoes!”
So how do you add some pizzazz into your outfits, still feel like yourself, not feel like you are wearing a one-hit wonder, and avoid being known around the office as the lady with the hot pink polka dot top?
5 ways to add some excitement into your wardrobe
1. Bored with your clothes? Add excitement to your wardrobe with leather
Leather is one of those items that feels like a trend, but it’s definitely more than that. To me, leather is a way to make an outfit feel contemporary and modern, which is a great way to show that you are an innovator and a forward thinker. Of course, you don’t want to look like we’re carpooling on your Harley Davidson to the next networking lunch.
A sophisticated way to wear leather is when it’s a detail in with a formal piece like a blazer, a dress, or a cardigan. It is also appropriate to wear a leather pencil skirt or sheath dress, when the rest of your outfit is on the conservative side.
2. Bored with your clothes? Add excitement to your wardrobe with Texture
Texture is sometimes confused with pattern, but texture has more to do with the actual make up of the fabric of the garment., even though there is sometimes a pattern within the texture. Some examples of different textures are tweed, velvet, suede, and sateen.
Tweed is one of those love it or hate textures. I have some clients that stay away from it, because they feel that it is dowdy and too rigid. I have found that there are quite a few more relaxed tweed pieces available and incorporating them is a great way to polish an outfit.
One of my go-to ways to style texture is by mixing a variety of textures within a monochromatic outfit It is a great way to add dimension to what could be a boring outfit.
3. Bored with your clothes? Add excitement to your wardrobe with prints
Some women are overwhelmed by prints, while others have a safe one or two they will wear. I would say that clients are usually the most decisive when it comes to which print they like or disliker. They typically have a list of reasons why like don’t like the print (i.e. too whimsical, too girly, it makes me dizzy).
A go-to way to add some drama to a boring all black outfit is to pair it with a printed blazer… an instant outfit upgrade!
Have a printed top that maybe too busy for the office? The easiest way to tone done a pattern is to put a solid on top of it… this can take a top from overwhelming to just right.
4. Bored with your clothes? Add excitement to your wardrobe with color
There is a whole lot of information out there about color… which colors look good on you…. which colors you should wear when you want to look friendly vs. authoritative,… we will pause on that for now and you can contact me if you’d like to know more.
Most women’s closets are filled with neutral shades like black, grey, and navy… but there’s a place in every wardrobe for something a bit bolder—or a lot. The daily grind doesn’t have to be dull!
Try colors that you actually like. The beautiful thing about color is that it’s so individual and there are so many options. I like rich intense colors within that, I lean toward blues, purples, reds and pinks for no other reason than that I like them. I stay away from pastels, yellows, and orange because I don’t. And that’s okay! Many people love those shades.
If you only wears black but want to branch out, start small. Pick one color you like and buy something in that. How do you feel when you’re wearing an emerald green dress? Do you like the comments you get? Yes? Then buy something else!
5. Bored with your clothes… Add excitement to your wardrobe with fabulous shoes
The great thing about shoes is that they always fit and they are the perfect way to showcase your personal style. They are the a great way to dip your toes in the dramatic wardrobe pool… because you may be able to use a pair that you would typically wear on the weekend to the office.
There are so many directions you can go in when experimenting with unique shoes: you can wear a beautiful color, fun print, funky heel shape, or gorgeous embellishment.
The one thing I always say is.. be sure to bring whatever excitement you have on your shoes, back up to your face, so people are paying attention to what you have to say not staring at your feet while you’re speaking. This can easily be done with an necklace, earring, scarf, shirt, or lipstick.
Hopefully with these tips you’re able to create outfits that are polished, but don’t look like you’re trying to hard!
Which of the 5 ideas are you most exciting about experimenting with and how do you plan on incorporating them into your wardrobe! I can’t wait to hear from you… send me a message here.
Welcome!
I'm Melanie! A personal stylist and confidence coach for high achieving women.
Here on the blog, I write about style tips, personal branding, outfit creation, and how to use your wardrobe to get noticed.
Let me know if there's any way I can help you!
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Curious about how a personal stylist can help you? Let's Chat about it.
On our call we will discuss what's holding you back from being excited about getting dressed and showing up as the leader you were born to be. We'll discuss your personal challenges and talk about easy solutions.
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