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 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.

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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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12 wardrobe staples a personal stylist uses to create the most outfits!

This month we are on the subject of an overflowing closet yet your outfits just aren’t that exciting, we’ve decided the fault may not be with your clothes…but with your overall wardrobe concepts.

Another challenge that is holding women back to from enjoying getting dressed is with the types of pieces in your closet and what you can do with them.  Having a closet filled with trendy or dramatic pieces can stop you from creating polished outfits.

While experimenting with a fun trend is not bad (it keeps your look modern and current), but having more trendy pieces than classic staples can put you’re your closet in a bad position. What do you think you mix and match those fashion forward pieces with? Your foundation!  

The same goes for if you  own too many wow pieces, you can’t dress head to toe in all statement pieces.   It is best to have 1 or 2 items that is a show stoppers and the rest are classic pieces that always look amazing on you.

So how do you make these trendy and statement pieces OK to buy? First, make sure you have all your basics, from shoes to pants. Once you have a solid foundation, buy trends that fit into your aesthetic. 

I’m never a fan of lists or must have items…I’m sure they are a ploy by the fashion industry to keep us buying new things!  But there are certain items that I specifically look for when I am putting together outfits for clients.  They are items that continuously support my clients and are the workhorses of their closet.  These are the pieces that I believe are worth investing in if you do choose to purchase them, because they should last you a long time. As always, be sure to take into account your lifestyle, personal style, climate, etc. when making purchasing decisions, and calculate cost per wear when deciding what to budget for each item.

Here are the classic items a wardrobe stylist believe you should have in your closet

CLASSIC TRENCH

The easiest way to elevate a simple outfit is to throw a classic trench on top. 

When choosing a trench coat, don’t rule out single breasted styles. The traditional double breasted style with bulky epaulets isn’t flattering on a lot of women depending on body type.

Camel and black are the traditional colors, but don’t rule out a fun color. The trench is also great to use as a raincoat if you have one that’s waterproof.  

A trench is also the perfect style coat to wear over a blazer or bulky sweater.

A DENIM JACKET

A jean jacket is an all-American classic that can completely transform outfits…. used to dress up or dress down an outfit.   I typically style a denim jacket with a floral dress to help it look a little more causal or to dress up a post workout outfit so you can grab lunch after the gym.  It’s definitely one of the more useful items in my closet, especially on a chilly summer night or on vacation. 

 To avoid a denim jacket being too boxy… I recommend a fitted cropped style to denim your waistline without adding any unnecessary bulk. 

SHOP DENIM JACKETS AND TRENCH COATS

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CASHMERE SWEATER

Nothing feels and looks quite the same as a cashmere sweater. You can layer it over a button-down shirt, under a blazer or denim jacket for work, with a skirt or dress pants… the possibilities are virtually endless.

For this purchase, I would go for a neutral that is super versatile like camel, grey, or black. I would also choose a classic style like a turtleneck, crewneck, or v-neck with clean lines, and of course make sure the fit is on point.

LITTLE BLACK DRESS

A classic black dress will serve you well for years. If black isn’t your color, navy is a good alternative.

A sheath or A-line are both timeless styles… depending  I prefer a dress without much embellishment, and then I can add accessories to achieve the look I’m going for each time I wear it.

A LBD can we worn to cocktail party, charity event, to a funeral (unfortunately a necessary preplanned outfit we all should own), or on a date night. It’s so flattering and versatile.

 This dress is the perfect foundation piece. You can add a leather jacket for an edgier look, a blazer for a professional look, or a trench for a classy event. 

SHOP CASHMERE SWEATERS AND LITTLE BLACK DRESSES

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SEASONLESS BLACK PANTS

The pant silhouette that is trending may evolve over time,  but an all season black trousers is certainly a timeless closet essential. For a truly classic pair, look for a “4-season” or “seasonless” wool blend that is designed to work for you all year round.

Ankle-length slim pants are all the rage right now, but don’t rule out a traditional trouser style either. If a pant should or shouldn’t have a pleat or pockets will depend on your body type.

DARK STRAIGHT LEG JEANS

Jeans that never go out of style? Dark wash denim. Perfect for dressing up or down,straight leg jeans in an ultra dark rinse will be your bread and butter for every season and every shape.

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LEATHER TOTE

There are basically two kinds of women in the world — you love handbags, and those who don’t. I’m sure you know which team I’m on!

A tote it should be classic, elegant, and functional. It must be large enough to hold all of your necessities your laptop, files, cosmetic bag, etc.,--- but not so large that it’s weighing you down. The straps need to be long enough that you can reach into the tote while it is on your shoulder, even when wearing a coat. It should stand on its own, without slouching, when it is placed on the floor or a table. It should be stylish enough to carry after hours, as it should take you from work to a lunch to school activities to dinner, you’ll want a bag that will transition from day to evening. A tote is one of the most important pieces in a professional women’s wardrobe, as it sets to tone for all of your outfits. 

When deciding on which tote to invest in you really must think about what you want this piece to say about you… Carrying a designer handbag could be viewed differently within specific industries and demographics. 

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CLASSIC EARRINGS

A stud of a hoop never goes out of style, and they go well with most necklaces, making them pretty handy to have. A classic earring helps to polish an outfit and complete your look.  

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BELT

Belts are often overlooked as a staple accessory, but they are one of the main items that should be in your closet. You would be surprised how a simple, classic belt can completely transform a look. If you have a normally loose-fitting top, add a classy waist-belt to instantly cinch it in and define your womanly curves.

A belt should be your go-to for creating an hourglass shape. Use it to cinch a maxi dress, tunic, peasant blouse or one of those long cardigans. Just make sure the width of the belt is proportional to your height. A wide belt on a petite frame could make you look shorter rather than curvier; in which case, go for a skinnier belt.

A belt is also the perfect way to polish the popular half tuck…. Many of my client’s go to outfit finisher because it balances your proportions  while helping you look taller and leaner. This tuck also can also make an outfit feel a little more sophisticated and smart especially when applied to a casual outfit.

 It helps provide a bit of camouflage around the tummy area, while also making your legs look nice and long. I’ve noticed that when wearing a “French Tuck”, you tend to feel a bit leaner and more confident!

Fashion Sneaker 

I find that with women that work in business or business casual setting, it is challenging for them to figure what to wear weekends.   Everyone needs comfy sneakers to kick back on the weekends or wear on casual Friday. I’m partial to a fashion sneaker because, while casual, they can have a semi-sophisticated/dressy vibe when paired with more-polished separates.

Choose a sneaker with a simple, streamlined look and feminine colors and/or details and you’ll be able to make them work with countless combinations in your closet. 

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NEUTRAL FLAT 

A pointed flat or loafer are timeless, and I would make a case for having some of each. They dress up an outfit by instantly creating a polished look.

With a pointed toe flat you get the comfort of a flat coupled with the style of a pump.

Even in darker colors, they create a streamlined silhouette for your legs, instantly lengthening them. 

Loafers are having a moment and this more tailored, menswear-inspired look is both comfortable and modern. 

Both styles are classics that have stood the test of time, and it’s worth investing in a good pair (or two or three) if you wear them often. 

Bonus:Nude-colored flats create a seamless transition from your leg to your foot, which, in a way, masks the real length of your leg. Think of it as an optical illusion of sorts. 

SUEDE OR LEATHER PUMPS

I realize not every woman has a need for pumps in her wardrobe, but they’re definitely a great piece to have if you work in a professional environment or have events to attend with any regularity. 

Pumps can be worn with everything from skirts and dresses to jeans and even shorts, if you have the personality to pull it off!

For this purchase, I recommend investing in nude and/or black first, and if you wear pumps a lot, it’s nice to have a leopard pair and some fun colors as well.

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Again, this isn’t a list of wardrobe essentials, but rather items that stand the test of time, so it’s worth investing in quality pieces.

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Nothing to Wear? 7 questions to ask yourself before purchasing new clothes.

7 Questions To Ask Yourself Before You Buy Something New

Continuing with our theme of closet filled with clothes and nothing to wear! The typical go to next step when you’re feeling like your jammed packed closet has no good options …straight to the store (whether a virtual or a physical location.) 

In order to help you dodge those dressing room mistakes and hasty sale purchases, here are 7 questions to ask yourself before you add it to your physical or virtual cart. 

1. Do I already own this? 

We are creatures of habit and try to avoid being uncomfortable, so we typically go with an item that we know will work for us and will fit.  Besides owning 7 v-neck black tees… this is also true for an item that serves the same purpose.  Even if a skirt might be different in color and print, if it gives you the same styling options as the pieces you already own, it’s not really adding to your wardrobe… it’s going to worn instead of the item; which isn’t very useful.  

To see what I mean, let’s take a look at my recent obsession with a puff sleeve… I just love how this detail makes your waist looks smaller and gives a modern twist to an outfit.  The second I see a puff sleeve poking out from a rack, I run to snatch it up. But while I might get giddy  over the pretty piece, I almost never buy it. Why? Because I literally already own 7 puff sleeve tops, I definitely don’t need anymore, even if that one in particular was in a different color or came in a new texture. Stop yourself from making repeat purchases by going mentally back into your closet and seeing if you have anything similar. If you do, step away from the piece. 

Assignment: The next time you pick up a your version of the puff sleeve top, try and see if it’ll contribute a new “pop!” to your wardrobe. For example, if it comes in a color you don’t own, is it a color that will make a difference? Will it make old jeans feel new again? Does it have layering potential that your other shirts don’t? If the answer is no, put it back. Because even if it’s a little bit different, if it doesn’t give you wild new styling options, it’s just another item in your closet.

2. Can I build three outfits with it?

How many pieces do you have hanging in your closet right now that are absolutely beautiful…but you have nothing to pair them with? Avoid having a wardrobe full of clothes and nothing to wear by first seeing if the item in question will play nice with the rest of your wardrobe.

Assignment: 
 When you’re excited to buy a specific piece, take a second and see if you can create at least three outfits with the items you already own. If you find it too tricky or you can only come up with one or two, put it back. There’s no need to spend money on a piece that will only bring you two outfits a year because it doesn’t work with your wardrobe. It might be hard, but your wallet (and the back of your closet) will thank you.  

3. Am I 100% comfy wearing this in life? 

I can’t tell you how many pieces just don’t fit right once you start living your life wearing them…. When you’re bending over, sitting down, or layering it with another piece. What usually happens to those pieces usually stay in the back of your closet for a few years until you finally give up on the charade and give them away.   In order to cut back on that, make sure you’re 100% happy with the fit. Be honest with yourself—don’t just say you’re fine with how short the hem is or how it kind of sort of gives you a wedgie, or that you’ll get it tailored, because you won’t be in the long run! 

Another thing... if you need a special bra to wear with a top and you don’t already own that bra…it’s probably best to not bring that top home with you!  

Assignment: When you’re in the dressing room, practice some yoga to see how the item moves with your body. Sit down on the bench… Cross your legs…Bend over…. Lift your arms and move them like you just don’t care…. Bend over and see what’s going on with the girls. If you feel anything off—a mini camel toe, a bra hanging out, a pinching at your sides, don’t even bother. You might be fine with it now, but just wait til you’re in 2 hours into a party and the entrée hasn’t been served yet and your feet are on fire. You’ll want to throw them in the trash and consider flip flops for the rest of your life.

4. Does this piece work for my lifestyle?

Do you keep buying sequin tops but always go out for pizza and beers on weekends? Do you have lots of heels, but can’t wear them as you chase after your kiddos all day? Do you keep buying off the shoulder tops, but have no desire to wear a strapless bra? We are trying to avoid having a closet full of items that you have no occasion to wear to them, shop for your own lifestyle. Not the one you want, not the one you had before kids, but the one you have right now.

Assignment: Even as your heart is tap dancing in your chest over the so-and-so item, take a moment and examine your lifestyle. Ask yourself questions like will you have places to wear that item to, are you okay running to the dry cleaners every other week, is a leather jacket too hot for where you live, are you not mentally prepared to wear that fringe vest out for errands? Think first if it fits into the life you have, not the one you wish you did.

5. Is it filling a wardrobe gap?

Think of your wardrobe as one cohesive puzzle, and each item is a piece that fills in the gaps to complete that jigsaw. Before you pick up that sparkly skirt, consider whether it’s filling a wardrobe gap or creating a new one.

Assignment:  Envision what you could do with your piece in question. Will it be easy to layer with? Will it give some old top or blazer new life? Will its color work with your palette, or is it going to be tough to work into your style? If the piece fills a wardrobe gap, run to the grab and go home to make some new outfits. If it doesn’t do much of anything, put it back.

6. Can You keep up with the maintenance?

If it’s dry clean only and you have a bag to go to cleaners that hasn’t left your closet in months, I don’t think this item will inspire a change inside you. If you despise ironing, it’s best to steer clear of linens. You already have 3 pair of jeans that needed to be hemmed for a year… best to buy cropped or petite jeans.

Assignment: Always double check the labels! If you don’t mind a trip to the dry cleaners after work and it’s cost, then there’s no problem. But if you’re the type that just leaves it there for months until they donate your items, it’s best to put it back.

7. Am I buying this just because it’s on sale?

It was $300 and now it’s $30… you think what a deal and convince yourself you like it.  if you don’t have much use for it or you’re not going to wear it, then it’s not much of a deal, is it?

Assignment: Before you going running to purchase, pause and think about if you actually need/like the piece, or if you’re buying it because it’s on sale. If you’re tired of editing your closet every year and tossing out huge hunks of purchases, don’t fall into the clearance trap! Only buy things you truly need and like.

Okay so there it is… if you’re still wanting to make a purchase after asking yourself these 7 questions, you have a keeper.  Make sure when you get home to create a few outfits with your new item to make sure you’ll start enjoying it immediately!

Is your closet overflowing with clothing, but you have nothing to wear?

It’s a Friday night, and you’re getting ready to go to dinner and drinks with some friends. You stand in front of your closet – packed to the gills with an unreasonable amount of clothes – and sigh.  You have the same complaint that so many women are familiar with:

“Ugh — I have nothing to wear!” you say to your husband, who honestly couldn’t care less if you decided to head to the restaurant wearing the same thing you always wear… he doesn’t get it, it’s always so easy for him to get dressed!  

Okay, so the problem isn’t that you don't have anything to put on your body in a literal sense. In fact, you have a closet full of clothes. It was just that you suddenly hated every single item hanging in front of you. Women usually love what they buy, yet hate two-thirds of what’s in their closets!

“You have more clothes than anybody I know,” your husband says. “How could you have nothing to wear?”

So often I will hear from a client that they have a wardrobe full of clothes but still nothing to wear.  Why is this?

There are so many reasons….

You haven’t thrown out any items for years, even though what goes around always comes back again, it doens’t mean that you should be holding in to it for 30 years. The pieces are taking up precious space (both physical and emotional), they haven’t been out of your closet in decades.   And let’s not forget all those going out tops back from when you were in your 20’s , everything you’ve ever worn to a wedding in the past decade – they were expensive so best hold onto them in case you can wear then again, or you never know, they may come back into fashion.

Your clothes don’t fit properly – whether you’ve put on or lost weight, or bought something in a smaller size thinking that it won’t be much of an effort to lose that 5 lbs til you can fit into it, but you still haven’t, these clothes are taunting you and reminding you about any weight issues you may have… or you purchased a piece that just doesn’t flatter your body type; you were going to get it tailored 2 years ago, but it still hasn’t happened yet.

Your pieces only serve one purpose- you go into a store and buy exactly what’s on the mannequin and therefore only wear those pieces exactly how they were styled by the stores’ visual person or you segregate your clothes into pieces that you wear to work, pieces you wear with kids, or pieces that you wear out with friends… there are no crosses your clothing boundaries.

You keep all your favorite clothes, you love them – how could you get rid of them, Ok they’re looking a tad tatty and tired, dated and old, and you haven’t really worn some of them for years, but you still love them and you spent a lot on them… you can’t throw out something that you love.

You’re constantly buying new clothes, without thought about what you have, and what you need in your wardrobe.  You have every color under the sun in your wardrobe.  Your clothes don’t match, you can’t create outfits, you’re constantly trying on different personality styles so it’s all a bit too all over the place to really work.

You have lots of clothes, but they’re all the same, 20 pairs of black trousers, 2 dozen pairs of jeans, 8 blue tops, 15 pairs of black flats, 7 identical t-shirts.  Whatever your weakness, whatever you think will always come in handy you keep buying the same garment over and over, but forget about creating outfits.

You’re always in a hurry and can’t be bothered to look through everything. You end up wearing the same clothes over and over again.

Your closet has a few gaps. Maybe you don’t own the perfect black trousers or the section of womens coats and jackets in your closet is a bit weak.

How to create a closet filled with clothes you wear….

Ditch the out of date pieces  – this is an easy one – the worlds of Elsa…” let it go.”  If it was expensive or possibly now vintage, but you no longer wear it –put it on Poshmark if you want a return on your investment.  Otherwise donate it.

Keeping clothes that don’t fit is bad for your emotional well being.  If the clothes are too small and you are in the process of losing weight, then pack them away somewhere so that they’re not taunting you daily about your weight.  If in another 6 months or year you still can’t fit into them, get rid of them.  If they’re too large and you’re keeping them in case you put weight on, get rid of them or have them altered to fit you.   If they just don’t fit quite right, see if they can be altered to fit, if not, and sometimes they’re just not cut right for your body shape, then move them on – sell, give away, donate.

Each item has many facets - if you cant create at least 3 different outfits with an item it’s not worth the investment… stop purchasing one fit wonders. Also, think about each item in a unique way and don’t limit it to it’s original purpose. A top that was purchased to be worn under a blazer can be paired with jeans and heels and worn to dinner or sleeveless sheath dress can be worn with a Moto jacket to give it an edgy look.

Favorites – you’re letting your emotions hold you back.  Are you going to build extra rooms onto your house to store all your favorite items?   That’d be pretty expensive wouldn’t it?  Do you have photos of yourself wearing those favorite outfits?  Do you have memories of wearing them?  Yes they may have made you feel and look great at the time, but if they’re passed their use-by date, let them go, they’ve just become clutter -and does clutter really make you happy?

Stop shopping and start refining your personal style- pin down the colors that make you look really fabulous, and to understand the shapes and styles of clothes that work best on you.  Take a calculator and go through your wardrobe, add up what you think you paid for each item, then prepare to be shocked at what you’ve spent.  You may think that an image consultant is expensive, but a good one will save you money for years and years and years because you’ll stop wasting money on stuff that doesn’t work.

Take an inventory of what you own - Hang like items together and you’ll realize just how many of the same thing you have.  You may not have known just how many pairs of jeans, or black pants or whatever is your weakness you have, until they’re grouped together, staring at you. 

Plan in advance - look for an item at the bottom of your closet, something you haven’t worn in ages. Build an outfit around that item and wear it the next day.

Purge your closet - make a list of everything that you need. Next time you’re out shopping think about investing in the perfect nude minimalist shoe or any other key items that will tie together outfits.

it’s time for you to pull out your clothes , start trying on, and creating outfits. Photograph your outfits so you know what to wear the next time you’re meeting your friends for dinner. Need some help creating outfits contact me for help!

New Year... Renew your Personal Style

New Year, New You! So many of us say this and set out to clean up our diet and hit the gym. Let's face it; we're probably going to quit the gym. It's also likely that we'll abandon the diet. I'm not trying to be negative. I appreciate what women are trying to accomplish with these resolutions. The truth is that we make these resolutions because we want to feel and look better.  

If you want to look and feel better without trying to morph yourself into something you're not, invest that energy into your wardrobe and your personal style. Clothes that help you feel confident and comfortable can be the key to meeting this goal. 

• Stop scrolling. All that social media will leave you feeling not so great about yourself and most of the clothes and fashion your seeing, is not meant for you or your body type. Take a break from social media and use that time to figure out what DOES work for your body, and you'll be rocking your personal style in no time! If you need some help figuring out what you should be wearing, check out these blogs: How to Find Your Personal Style After Your 20’s, Define Your Style and Learn How to Dress for Your Body Type.

• Push your boundaries. Take something into the dressing room that you would NEVER wear and try it on. New colors and color combinations can be fun to try. Don't be held back by arbitrary rules, break free, and try something new.

• Focus on what you have as opposed to buying something new. We all love an excuse to shop, but for so many of us, we do it because we think we'll find this magical item that will make the whole event so perfect. In reality, you probably have something in your closet that will look just as good. If you want to change up an outfit that's already in your wardrobe, try looking at it a little different. You can add a cuff to your jeans to change up the fit, pair a t-shirt with a blazer, or wear a summer dress all year long by adding a sweater and booties. 

• Shake up your closet. If you find yourself looking for an excuse to shop, you're probably not using your wardrobe the right way, and it's probably time to shake things up. An easy way to do this is to take out the items that you always wear and store them somewhere for a little bit. This trick will force you to spend time with the stuff you don't wear as often and force you to figure out how to wear different clothes.

Shop Your Closet Tip … Break up the outfit.

I'm giving you permission from this day forward to break up the outfit. Wear the top with a different bottom, and wear the bottoms with a different top. Voila…two new outfits right from the pieces you already own. Suits are great wardrobe building blocks... but don't always get so much wear. To reinvent the suit, wear the jacket as a blazer with a top and jeans. And wear the pants with a blouse or sweater to give it new life.

• Stop holding on to clothes that you will never wear. If there are items that are "just ok" or are stretched out and full of holes, toss them. Go through your closet and get rid of anything that doesn't spark joy (shout out to Marie Kondo.) When you hold on to old things, you're not open to finding better things. You will be much happier with ten items that make you happy than fifty mediocre items.

• Make it easy to get dressed. You won't put together things that make you happy when you're rushing to get the kids to school and you to work. Pre-plan your outfits that you feel good about and take a picture of them. This practice will make it easy to know what clothes work together and the best way to accessorize.

• Make a switch. Most of us have a fallback item. We're always in leggings or jeans or a particular style shirt. Try naming your item and saying, "instead of X, I'm going to wear Y." You don't need to redo everything, make one change, and it will get you out of the rut.

• When in doubt, ask for help. Whatever your struggle is when it comes to loving your personal style, I can help. A personal stylist is an investment, just like joining a gym or trying a particular meal plan. A good stylist will make the most of what you have before investing in additional pieces. A good stylist will also make you make better choices in the future so you can continue to grow and adjust your wardrobe with intention.

I don't want you going into the new year thinking you need to make massive changes. A few strategic tweaks and your wardrobe can have you feeling and looking your best.

To Save or To Splurge! A how to guide to investing in clothing

Most of us follow a budget and have clothing costs built into that budget. When you start holding yourself accountable to that budget, it becomes even more important to be intentional about what you need in your wardrobe and what you don't. 

For some of my clients, when they stop buying frivolously, they sometimes find themselves stuck when they DO need to buy something. They don't want to make the wrong choice or spend money where they don't need to spend money. 

There are some key things to keep in mind that will make it easier to determine if you should splurge or save. 

Go ahead, splurge! The following are reasons to spend a little bit more, and these clothes will be an investment.

• You will wear it often, and it will 100% give you a return on the investment. 
  If you're buying shoes or a blazer that you're going to wear three times a week, you're going to want to spend the money on them so that they hold up.

• I need this item to support me in particular ways. 
  A winter jacket needs to keep you warm. If you're a teacher or on your feet all day, you need a comfortable, supportive shoe. Do you live in an area where you need waterproof boots? These are considerations that are going to require splurging on the right product.

• I am super picky about the fabrics that are in my clothes. OR I need a high-performance item.
  If you have strong preferences on fabrics for your clothes, those may increase the cost and require a splurge. If you're someone who wants the best in stay dry technology for their workout clothes, then you may find that to be an extra expense worth the splurge. 

• It's PERFECT!
  When you find that unicorn item that is the right color, made for you fit, it's something you can get a lot of wear out of, and it's just overall PERFECT, it's worth the splurge. This item could be a blazer, nude pumps, jeans, or work pants. 

• You want to make an impression.
  If you work in a field where you have to be ahead of the curve when it comes to your image and your aesthetic, you will probably find yourself investing in more unique, high-end outfits. I find my clients who are plastic surgeons or graphic designers are willing to splurge a lot more if they're going to stand out and make an impression.

Save your money! This list offers reasons to find a less expensive alternative or save for a bit before buying.

• I don't know my style.
  If you haven't figured out what your personal style is, don't spend big money trying to find it. You won't have a plan in place, and items will go unworn. 

• I'm not settled in my career. 
  If you're currently interviewing for jobs or still in school earning your degree, don't spend money on something that you may not be able to wear. For example, you don't want to buy a suit or a blazer if you would look silly because you end up working in a casual environment.

• It costs more. It must be worth it!
  NO! Do not spend money on something based on the belief that more expensive is better. There needs to be a reason for the price tag.

• I need something for a one-time special event.
  If you're only going to wear it once, you have options! Look into Rent the Runway, borrow from a friend, or repurpose what you have to look and feel new and different.

• It's the coolest, newest, trendiest clothing item going on these days!
  Trends come and go. They also don't usually flatter or benefit the majority of women who wear them. Save your money for the classic pieces that are perfect for YOU and will last more than just one season.

• Something for every day.
  If you're looking at a t-shirt that your kids are going to wipe their saucy hands on all day long, you're going to want that to be a bargain price. Don't waste your money on items that are going to be destroyed by regular use.

All of this comes down to your values. When I work with you as a client, we work to be very clear on what is important to you and your values. This process makes it much easier for you to determine what is worth the splurge. If you're still unsure how to navigate these decisions, reach out, I can help!

How to find your personal style after your 20's.

There's this phase of life that many of my clients talk about frequently. I've had many random conversations about this particular phase with friends and acquaintances. It's almost like a right of passage. 

It's the "I'm not in my 20's anymore, but I'm not 75, what should I wear???" phase.

If you're in your mid-thirties, you have probably experienced this phase. You may have kids, you may be married, and you are probably established in your career. Your weekends look much different than they did when you were in your twenties. There's perhaps a little less going out to the clubs and a few more cozy nights in with friends. Your life is different.

Your style is different too.

By now, you know that wine gets better with age, and so does your style. Your mentality is different when it comes to clothes. You've experienced some significant transitions in your life. You're more focused on clothes that fit your relationship, career, and family. When it comes to clothes, you're making some more significant decisions for more permanent pieces, not the one-hit wonders you may have focused on in the past. We're not as influenced by shiny objects or the hottest trends and celebrity style must-haves on Instagram. 

So if we're not following every trend popping up on the runways, what should we be wearing? We don't want to dress like our mothers. Where does that leave us? 

First, you should check out my blog on defining your personal style to get some ideas, and then check out some of the key items you should invest in to start building your wardrobe. 

These are forever pieces that will help you to build a core wardrobe that is both stylish and age-appropriate. 

• Grown-up jeans: (NOT mom jeans) Every woman should have a good, flattering pair of jeans that does what you need it to do, like pulling in the tummy pouch or shaping your butt. Invest the time and money to find a good pair of jeans.
  
  

• A Leather jacket: You may have bought a flashy faux leather coat in the past, but now it's time to uplevel the look. This jacket is a signature item that's worth the time and money. You can make it a practical piece by wearing it over a dress or pair it with jeans for a flashier look.

• Classic black or nude pumps: These need to be comfortable and sophisticated. These are the pumps you would wear to an interview because they make you feel confident. It is worth the work to find a good pair. Once you buy them, you'll need to take care of them. Find a good cobbler and figure out how to care for them, spray, polish, etc. 

• Tailored workwear pieces: These are not necessarily matronly items from Talbot’s. You need tailored clothing that fits and makes you look polished. These can be a couple of crisp blazers and trousers that are standard, and you can add flare and more style to these classic and standard pieces as you see fit.

• Event dress - There will always be weddings, networking events, and other events to attend. Having a great dress in your closet makes it easier to accept those invitations and makes them less stressful. You can mix it up with that leather jacket you just bought, shoes, or accessories and don't minimize how different hairstyles can change the look as well. Once you find an event dress you love, you'll probably find it easier to find a second version, but you are much better off with one quality dress than a few mediocre choices.

• A good handbag: Every woman needs a signature handbag that makes you look put together. (It doesn't matter what kind of mess is INSIDE the bag, it's all about how it pulls your look together on the outside!)

Here's the thing, while you're adding all these amazing pieces to your wardrobe, you're going to start noticing the items that no longer serve you. To honor that process, I'm giving you a list of what you need to toss from your closet.

Things to get rid of:

• Shirts you wore when you frequented the bars or while dating. You know the ones, the tight, short, revealing shirts that you know you're not going to wear anymore.

• Your too short, little black dress: If you don't have any bachelor parties coming down the pike, toss that dress. You've got an elegant event dress to make room for in your closet!

• If you pick up an item and say, "this might come back in style," it's not, get rid of it.

• Uncomfortable shoes: There's no reason to torture your feet, you deserve quality, comfortable shoes.

If you don’t want to go through this process alone, reach out. I am happy to help you figure out how to rebuild your wardrobe and fill your closet with clothes you love!

What are you waiting for? Let's define your style and learn how to dress for your body type!

I have spoken to so many of you who say you need me. You know I can help you to look and feel your best. You know that your closet needs help and you're sick of not putting your best foot forward. You want to be confident and to portray your best assets.

You say, "I'm going to hire you, I just need to lose these last 10 pounds." You can insert "...lose the baby weight" or "...start going to the gym more" or whatever excuse you decide to make.

I'm going to get real for a minute.

That may never happen.

You may never reach that goal!

Let's be super honest here, you had a few kids. Your body has changed. You're a little softer. Your body is not what it used to be, and it may never go back to how you remember it.

OWN IT! 

This does not have to be a bad thing. This does not mean you don't deserve to look and feel good RIGHT NOW, in THIS body.

First, forget about the size of your clothes. The number on the tag means nothing. Vanity sizing is a thing, it's meant to make you feel a certain way about the number on your pants. But honestly, it's how clothes fit and how you feel that is more important.

The truth is that throughout life, our weight and shape change - especially after having a baby. That can be really hard to admit and to work with when you don't know what to wear. Dress for your body type, the body type you have now. Stop beating yourself up and start honoring your body.

If I am being honest, you probably need me more when you DON'T feel good. I do this work to empower women to feel good, to increase their confidence. In fact, this may be the help you need. When you feel better and more confident, you make better choices when it comes to the gym, food, and self-care. When you stop focusing on changing your body, you may start to be happier with it, which makes it easier to honor your body and give it more of the good stuff.

Stop using your body as a crutch. Try moving forward and embracing it. Learn to dress for the body you have so you can appreciate it as it is. 
Honestly, dressing right is a lot easier than losing weight. 

So what does that mean? Here are some things you can do that will make you feel better and more confident right now, just as you are:

• What do you like about yourself? Make a list of positives about the body you have now or your personality. This is more than just "emphasize a small waist," this is about embracing what you LOVE about yourself.

  • Highlight and accentuate those points. 

    • Do you have beautiful blue eyes - let's focus on those! Wear some blue shirts, necklaces, earrings

    • Do you love the texture in your hair? Where a shirt with some texture to show it off. 

    • Do you love your sense of humor? Invest in some t-shirts with fun sayings.

    • Are you creative? Make a switch to some quirky glasses or add in a funky bracelet.

Wear a ruffle top…

to highlight textured hair

• Avoid following trends that aren't meant for your body. If you don't love your bottom half, stop wearing skinny jeans, they're not serving you. Instead, try straight cut jeans or boot cut to balance your body. 

• Have some tricks on hand to camouflage what you don't love. 

  • Try a ruffle top to hide a bigger midsection. 

  • Don't wear a ruffle shirt if you don't want to draw attention to your curly hair.

  • Choose thick straps, instead of spaghetti straps, if you're trying to hide bigger arms.

  • Wear dark colors on least favorite parts of your body and bright colors where you want to draw attention. 

• In all cases, you can never go wrong with drawing attention to your face. We want people to be listening to YOU! Wear the fabulous shoes but wear a scarf, necklace, or earrings in the same color as your fabulous shoe so that the attention is on you and what you have to say.

These tips can help, but really, stop hesitating and reach out. I can help you develop the right mindset. It is easier to make excuses than to fix something, but nothing is going to change unless you do. 

Let's have an honest, judgment-free conversation about the body you have now and take baby steps. This is a process! Start where you are now.

Showing Off Your Personal Style at Work

Most of us have boring assumptions of what we can wear to work. We’re used to certain rules about what we’re “allowed” to wear to work. For us women, it can be especially tough to find a balance between comfort and formality and stylishness and professionalism. It’s time to let go of these rules and to add some of your personal style into your work wardrobe. 

Showing your personality through your style can actually be beneficial, especially in client-facing roles. People want to do business with people they know, like and trust. By dressing in a way that shows off your personality you show you’re a person, you’ll appear interesting, and you’ll stand out. 

Conversely, wearing attire that’s too professional creates social distance. When you’re all buttoned up or always in the same plain black dress, you may be seen as stuffy or stuck up and boring. This also gives off a very linear vibe and may give the impression that you’re not a creative thinker, not approachable, unrelatable, and unapproachable. 

Hopefully, I’ve convinced you that you should be incorporating at least a little bit of your personal style into your work wardrobe. Now you may be wondering exactly HOW you can incorporate your style into work in a way that makes you feel confident but not in the same way as if you’re going to rock concert.

To decide how much of your personal style you can add to your wardrobe you should consider your industry and whats going on in your office. Do you work in a traditional industry (lawyers, doctors, accountants)? If yes, then you just want to add your style with small details. If not, what’s your office like? Are there other stylish people? Is it a casual environment? Do people wear jeans? If the answer to any of those questions is yes, then it’s appropriate for you to show more of your style and creativity than if the answer is no.

Now, the challenge is to figure out HOW to incorporate these flashes of your style and personality into your work wardrobe. Here are some of my suggestions:

• When you’re not sure how much is too much, remember that you’re on the clock, just keeping the work environment in mind should keep you in check.

• Wear a print shirt under a blazer or cardigan.

• Wear a dress that’s a little bit more of a weekend dress but add tights and appropriate shoes. Sometimes a belt can help add a polished look. 

• Stick with your typical formal dress but incorporate a fun shoe.

• Find a conversation starter. It can be a necklace or an earring. Even with traditional clothes, a real statement piece will make a lasting impression.

• Replace your blazer for a vest (which is essentially a sleeveless blazer.) They’re very flattering. Try a vest over a dress for a chic look.

• Want to push the envelope? A little riskier fashion statement would be to wear leather pants paired with a sweater or blazer. 

• Create a signature item. Become the woman with the funky necklaces or the cool shoes. It helps you stand out and people know what to expect but it’s still fun, creative, and you.

The key is to know what you have to accomplish that day. Maybe you play it down a little if you;re meeting with the president of the company. Maybe on a casual Friday, you have a little bit more fun. A great time to play around with your look is when you;re traveling for work. You can try out some new looks and styles and since which feels the best.

The goal in all of this is to feel more like YOU. You don’t want to feel like you’re wearing a costume. Sometimes when we’re in the corporate environment we become this rigid person and we lose ourselves. Wearing your clothes and things that speak to who you are, helps to neing up new ideas. It can spur creativity and a level of comfort and confidence that can benefit your work.

If you’re looking to upgrade and polish your wardrobe, I can help. Let’s figure out your style and get your clothes to create the look and send the message you want to send

Get to know my client... Kellie

Meet Kellie.

Kellie is in her early 30's and just had her second child. She has always worked a corporate job but is in the process of a career change and is starting a new job with a start-up company. She is very excited about the new opportunity!

However, what Kellie has shared with me is that she is also super overwhelmed. She has two young kids and is now making a significant change in her life. Her life has changed, her work has changed, and her body has changed. (This Mama still wants to lose 10lbs but is trying to give herself some grace and appreciate what she's got)

Do you know what hasn't changed? Kellie's clothes. Kellie is holding on to a wardrobe that doesn't quite fit. She has all these clothes that are from her corporate and pre-kid life. The corporate clothes are too formal for the more casual atmosphere of the new job. On the weekends, she's just a hot mess. She is frustrated and discouraged because she doesn't know how to dress. She wants to feel put together and confident. She wants to look like she put in some effort, but not like she is trying too hard.

Kellie has tried subscription boxes, but those just stressed her out more by adding more clothes to the closet that she didn't how to wear.

So now, Kellie is working with me. She's choosing to work with a stylist even though she knows she wants to lose more weight. She's choosing to work with a stylist even though she has a closet full of clothes. The choice to work with me is really about Kellie wanting to feel confident and comfortable in her clothes. By working with me, Kellie eliminates the stress of getting dressed every day.

My Goals for Kellie:

1. Determine what Kellie's style is. She had a style once, but her life has changed. She is not 20 anymore, but she's also not 70, and there is a middle ground out there that will meet Kellie's lifestyle and needs. I will help Kellie find her NEW style.

2. Create a capsule-style wardrobe that has some stand out pieces but allows for Kellie to mix and match the pieces. That means we'll have a lot of neutral pieces but add splashes that help Kellie stand out in all the right ways. 

   My process through Pinterest:

   1. Create a "This is me" board. Include pictures of what your life is like right now. Show me your vacations, what you do on the weekends, what you do with friends, the activities you do with your kids, and how you choose to spend date nights. Include what you wear NOW during these activities.

2. Create a "This is me if only…" board. Show me what you would wear if you lived your ideal/dream life. This dream life could include "if I lived in Greece" "if I lost 20 lbs" "if I didn't have kids" "if I got a promotion" This is a fantasy board, there are no limits.

3. Create an "I wouldn't be caught dead in this" board. Show me all the things you would never wear. They may be things that are too frumpy, too tight, short, pink, colorful, etc. 

This process allows me to see patterns in the preferences and dislikes that my clients don't see. Then we can talk about them. We talk about where you would wear certain items, why you dislike certain things. I get a clear idea of what you need in your wardrobe and how to make it best work for you.

I create a mood board for you that I break down into different situations and what I envision you wearing. You tell me what works and what doesn't. What we have left is YOUR STYLE!

We use these images to shop your closet ad the stores to create outfits that fit you and your life. Just like Kellie, most of us want easy, interchangeable outfits that give us some choice and control but make getting dressed easy and stress-free.

I love that I was able to help Kellie go from being unsure and frustrated to being at ease and confident while facing this new phase of life. If you’re willing to put aside all the reasons why now is not a good time and get back to feeling good in your clothes again, reach out, I can help!

How to look and feel fabulous after having a baby

If you recently birthed a baby, you may be coming to grips with how your entire world is different. If we're being honest, YOU are entirely different, emotionally, and physically. We spend a lot of our postpartum days wondering, who am I? 

When the time comes to start wearing actual clothes again (don't rush it, ladies, sweats, and tees are worthy attire while you spend your days snuggling in that newborn haze.) This questioning of who we are is brought to the forefront. We can't wear the same clothes as before baby for reasons of comfort, fit or style. We may be tempted by the support of our maternity clothes, but since most of us only buy a limited number of maternity items, we may be sick of them by now. If we do lean into the maternity clothes, before long, those get too big, stretched out or just plain ill-fitting.

This challenge may seem insignificant compared to the new life you're now responsible for, but it can leave you feeling not so great about yourself.

Let's face it, with this new addition, it's not easy to get out of the house. First, it's hard to want to leave this cozy cocoon you have created with your little one. It also means you have so much much more to think about when you do try to leave the house. You need spare outfits, onesies, a sweater, blanket, burp cloths, diapers, wipes. lovies, pacifiers, and more things I am probably forgetting as I did in those first few days of venturing out with a baby. 

That list doesn't even include getting yourself ready! Now you have to find something acceptable to wear in public, that you feel comfortable in and, for some of us, that you can easily nurse your baby in. It is totally understandable if you're thinking you'll just crawl back into those maternity leggings and go back to binging Netflix with your babe.

Even if you have lost your baby weight (no pressure, mama!), your body has changed. I'm not just talking about size, but your body shape may be totally different. 

While this may seem like a downer, there are things you can wear to help you feel good again.

• Pants (that are not leggings or sweats) can be especially tough to get back into postpartum. However, luckily for us, pants with elastic waistbands have come a long way in recent years. They're great because they allow for fluctuations in size as you're settling into your postpartum body. They're comfy but also look polished and put together.

• Footwear is one of those items that highlights a surprising change. Your feet may have changed size between pregnancy and postpartum. Also, you may notice a difference in the use of your footwear. You need more comfort and more functionality in your shoes when you're living life with a baby. I suggest investing in a good pair of sneakers and diving into the world of flats (or at least shoes with a flat heel.)

• Eliminate the uncomfortable items you put up with before kids. It's always important to alter your wardrobe to fit your lifestyle. There's no reason for you to be uncomfortable, but there are also items that make your baby uncomfortable as well. Avoid hanging jewelry, scratchy/sequined shirts, and other rough materials.

• Nursing friendly clothes have come a LONG way! If you're nursing or pumping for the baby, you'll need clothes that offer easy access. You'll want shirts that layer well, have loose necks or that were designed with nursing in mind. Shirts and dress with a wrap top will work great for this and are very flattering cuts. Cardigans are great over nursing tanks for easy access and allow for varying degrees of modesty if you're concerned about that. Button-down shirts offer flexibility as well.
  

• If you're feeling a little lost without your old wardrobe and sense of style, try adding some accessories to allow for more self-expression during this phase of life. Cute shoes, hats, earrings, bracelets, and rings will let you show a little pizzazz without interfering with your new role as mom. 

• I have two words for you: washable fabrics. I am sorry to have to tell you this, my friend, but babies make you messy. Save those silks and other investment pieces for when they move out. Choose clothes that are going to outlast the spills, spit-ups, and blowouts. 

• Sometimes we have to let go of our old style to find our new style. This is a new phase of life. I know you don't want to look matronly, you want to be a cool mom! (Admit it, we all do!) You may need to play around with what you feel comfortable in and what fits your lifestyle. You do not have to give up all of who you are, you can just make some shifts so that your style fits who you are now.

We all know that life doesn't stop when you have a baby. Most of us still have work, family parties, weddings, and many other things that we're expected to attend. While you have no obligation to look good for anyone else, I know that it often helps US to feel better when we feel confident. Make it easy for yourself by preplanning a few outfits. Have them hung up and ready so that you won't have to think about it. You will feel better when you feel put together and polished.

I love to help moms in this new phase of life. If you'd like some support in this process, reach out and let me help you find who you are again.

To Subscribe or Not to Subscribe... That is the Question

A lot of people ask me what I think about clothing subscription boxes. You know the ones, you share your preferences with a stylist and get a box of clothes sent to you each month. You keep what you like and send back what you don’t. Some of them charge a small fee, and some of them roll that fee into whatever you purchase. There are more and more options out there as these types of services continue to grow in popularity.

In true transparency, I have personally felt threatened by these as a personal stylist. I take pride in my work and in helping you to learn a lot about yourself and your sense of fashion. So at first, I was a little offended that they offered personal styling. However, I think they have their place in the industry, just as I do, and I hope the following information helps you decide which service is the best for you.

The thing I like the most about these subscription boxes is that they are bringing personal styling to the mainstream. For a long time the idea of having someone show you what to wear, put together outfits and take you shopping was something celebrities did. These services bring the concept of personal styling to ordinary people.

However, pay attention to who is styling for these services. Many of them have no styling experience. They may be in their early twenties with an eye on the trends but minimal life experience. Trust me. They have no idea about the struggle of mom jeans.

The process these services use is really interesting. I like their use of a Pinterest board and/or questionnaire to get to know your style. I use the same process to get started with my clients. Unfortunately, their process ends there. “OK you like those things, so we’ll send you these items that are a similar style.” Eventually, though, like every bandaid, it won’t be enough. You’re going to start sending everything back, and you won’t solve the actual problem, you won’t get past the things that are making it hard for you to feel confident and comfortable in your wardrobe.

Using subscription boxes is l something like talking to a friend when something is bothering you instead of going to a therapist. A friend will support you, let you talk about it, and maybe give you some ideas but they’re not going to ask you the profound and important questions that a therapist would. Similarly, these subscription services are going to ask surface-level questions and give you surface-level suggestions. You will not learn how to do the work for yourself to make a real change.

The way the stylists work for these subscription services is pretty cool. They use the information you give them, and an algorithm gives them suggestions from their inventory that fits the parameters. The stylist then tries to make the best choices based on your information. It is a neat system, but it is also limited. Their inventory is limited, which means that they’re limited in what they can send you. When you work with an independent personal stylist, you have unlimited options. While I can go to some stores with you and do some shopping, I can also tell you precisely what to look for and HOW to shop at any store you want. You can take the knowledge I give you and make fantastic choices for yourself any time you want.

Many of my clients have experienced the excitement of getting those first boxes. They then feel let down for the following months. They received sweaters when they live in Florida and too many mini skirts as a stay at home mom. They started keeping things that were “all right” but were not beneficial to them. They found they had some great pieces but nothing to wear them with when it came time to get dressed. 

My clients also told me that it made them start thinking about what WAS a good fit for them. Using these services helped them to try new things they would not have picked out for themselves. It made them think about their wardrobe and to get excited about adding new pieces to it. 

Here’s the thing, I START with a survey and a Pinterest board. Then I talk to you and learn about your life and your goals. I find out why you’re coming to me and what you hope to change. I help you identify what you like about your body and what makes you unhappy. I look at your ENTIRE wardrobe and ENTIRE life and fill in the gaps. What’s most important to you? Comfort and approachability while you’re at the park? Killing it in the board room with confidence and polish? Appearing put together and professional for clients but friendly and efficient for the PTA meeting?

After all this, I show you how to put together the perfect wardrobe. I teach you how to decide what to shop for and when. I help you understand your body and the clothes that suit you best, both physically and socially.

If you have dipped your toe in the water by trying a subscription service, I’d love to talk to you about how we can dive in and work together.

Style lessons we can learn from our High School self

Do you remember what it felt like when you went clothes shopping for back to school?

I LOVED it! I loved figuring out what I needed to buy, what was cool and the newest style. I remember trying to decide what to wear first. Of course, the first week of September was still hot, and all my clothes were meant for cooler weather. But I always wanted to wear all my new clothes even if that meant being hot all day. The world was our runway. We couldn't wait to show off our clothes every day. 

Oh how that has changed now that we are adults. Now we want to save our clothes. We don't wear our best stuff every day. We aren't as excited to get dressed each day. Things have changed!

Why aren't you wearing your clothes? What's stopping you? Where is that block coming from?

Our day to day life isn't good enough for us to wear our best. We think "I'm just going to the playground" or "I'm just working from home." We keep waiting for the right time to wear the clothes we love. 

Why do we want to wait? We often think we don't want to ruin these clothes that we love. Maybe we spent a lot of money on it, it's particularly pretty, or it's a little fancier than we might typically choose. Perhaps we love it so much we can't stand the idea of something spilling on it, or our kids smudging something on it. 

Leaving the clothes, you love in your closet will probably keep them clean. But they may go out of style, won't fit, or you'll fall out of love with it. Clothes don't last forever, even if we don't wear them.

You go shopping and come home with something so lovely! You love all of it, the fit and the color are perfect. Six months later, you still haven't worn it. (Most of us only wear 20% of our wardrobe!) It may not fit perfectly into your lifestyle, but THIS is your life. Most of us are not doing lunch at the Ritz or having tea with the queen. If you love it, you should be wearing it!

When you wear something you love, you build your confidence. Confidence helps us to feel good, when you feel good, you're more likely to take a chance on yourself, ask for the sale, or approach the potential mom friend on the playground. Let's face it; whatever you're doing, you deserve to dress your best.

So break out those A+ wardrobe pieces and don't settle for a C average when it comes to fashion this back to school season!

*images from Pinterest

7 Seconds is all it takes to form an impression!

Did you know that when people meet you, they make an assessment of you in about 7 seconds? 

That’s why your style can be such a valuable tool, it can communicate a lot of what you want these people to know about you right off the bat. Together, you and I can create a strategy for your style that is based on your goals and what you want to portray to people. 

Whether your goal is to make mom friends on the playground, get a promotion, or rule the board room - there's a balance to creating an appropriate style. You don’t want to show up to the playground wearing four-inch heels, but you probably don't want to just show up in PJs. Similarly, you don’t want to show up to a boardroom in ill-fitting clothes, but you also don’t want to be wearing a full suit when everyone else in business casual. 

Regardless of your goals, I want you to wear clothes that you like and feel comfortable in. Comfort and confidence will help you (and your style) go further in any situation.

So how do you determine that? What is it you should wear? Here are a few tips to get you started:

Pick one thing that stands out.
Wearing something unique is a conversation starter, and if you know when and how to wear a conversation starter, it can be a fantastic tool in creating connections with people. This can be your shoes, a statement necklace, or a unique piece of clothing. I’ve been known to say that a coat is a new yorkers car. They are walking to and from meetings and walking into those meetings wearing their coat. Most people in that situational feel much more comfortable when they love their coat and the vibe it gives off. If everyone else is wearing a black coat and you can find an eggplant color coat you love, that’s going to get you noticed.

Color Matters
Knowing which colors look good on you is an essential part of creating a style that works for you. Colors can highlight a part of your body, and some colors can help hide elements you want to subdue. Colors that look good on you make you look well-rested, brighter faced, you have a natural glow and contrarily wearing some colors can make you looked drained and tired.

Color matters.

75% of people look bad in black. There are also universal colors that look good on everyone but if you want to know for sure about works for you, hire someone, like me, to help!

Dress for your body type. 
When we start working together, we’ll have a real conversation about what you like and what you don't like it about your body. I can help you accentuate positives and balance your style to counteract the things you don't like, trust me, I know how to cover up a big tush. ;-) 

You’ve heard me say to ignore the dressing rules you’ve heard your whole life. In this process, we throw out those rules and instead create your own fashion formula that works for your body, your style, and your goals.

Wear clothes that speak to you.
You want your style to feel true to who you are. It’s not all about how you look and feel but also what is practical. I look great in A-Line dresses, but I'm not going to wear those every day. It helps to identify what else gives you confidence it could be a manicure, a blowout, a watch, or accessories. Anything that adds to your style and helps you feel great should be a staple in your self-care/personal style routines.

When we combine all of these aspects of a personal style, we create a strategy for you. This helps so many of my clients. I have many linear minded clients - professional doctors, lawyers, computer scientists, etc. who are looking for a cut and dry answer. They are not creative, and they’re not going to experiment. So this strategy can provide the rules they crave. On the flipside, y clients in the creative fields often need their formula from this strategy keeps them from going all willy nilly with no real rhyme or reason.

So next time you make a plan to go shopping, take a minute to go through these tips and to really create a strategy first. I promise it will be a much more enjoyable and productive shopping experience. Or, as always, you can just give me a call and we’ll conquer it together!

What's your personal style?

What’s your personal style?

I’ll wait. Really think about it for a minute…

It’s probably not easy to define. In fact, I’d say most women would not be able to tell you what their style is right off the bat. They may hem and haw and come up with a few unconvincing generic descriptors of what they think their style is.

That’s totally OK because that’s where I come in. My superpower is being able to get the right information from you and identifying your personal style. I know the right questions to ask, I know what makes you self conscious about talking about your style, and I know that it’s important details in your life that have the most impact on what your style is.

I wanted to share with you a few of the biggest things you should consider when defining your personal style. These are in no particular order, and if you decide you want to dive in a little deeper, I’m always available for a consult!

What did you wear in high school/college? 

What trips up most women when it comes to identifying their personal style is that they don’t know what their style is NOW. They probably had a better idea of what their personal style was before kids, before the pressures of work, and back when we had a little more fun with clothes. So dig deep and remember back to high school/college to remember a little about your personal style then.

What does your lifestyle require of your clothes? 

Are you a nanny or a teacher who’s bending down to tend to kids and probably NOT wanting to show off your butt crack? Are you stepping it up at the workplace but don’t have a lot of time to plan outfits that impress? Are you a nursing mom who would just destroy a silk dress with a little milk leakage?

If you’re married, what did your wedding dress look like? 

Your wedding dress is a window into your personal style. Dresses can be fun and flashy, sophisticated and sleek, or anything in between. Your wedding dress can really capture what style makes you feel your best. 

How do I want to be perceived? 

What you’re trying to portray to the world makes a difference. You may love your flouncy sundress that makes you feel fun and carefree, but if you never wear it because you want to be taken seriously and seen as powerful, then it’s probably not going to be a pillar piece of your style. It’s good to know what you’re comfortable wearing in different situations so that you can build your personal style around those items giving you a versatile wardrobe you love.

How much maintenance are you willing to do? 

Let’s be honest here, we all have different thresholds when it comes to household chores. If trips to the dry cleaners or meticulous ironing aren’t your thing, you’re going to want to avoid clothes that need that level of care. Be honest, if you’re a wash and wear kind of gal, own it!

Who is your style icon and, most importantly, why? 

Do you love the way Jennifer Anniston’s look seems effortless? Are you digging Michelle Obama’s classy looks? Is it the fun and edginess of Lady Gaga that caught your eye? Here’s the thing, these folks know how to dress to accomplish this style. They know what works for them and what makes them feel good. You can absolutely be inspired by these women, just make sure that it is done in a way that also fits you. (and I’m going to go ahead and just say no to a meat dress…) A few of my favorites are Victoria Beckham, Jenna Lyons, and Olivia Palermo. The majority of what they wear revolves around a killer hell ( not very practical for my lifestyle), but I look to them for interesting color combinations, mixing or patterns and textures, and chic accessories.

If you still need help identifying your style, I have many more questions where those came from, and I am happy to help! The important thing is to think about your style and how it will function. 

Think about when you go furniture shopping. If you’re like most people, you take a look around the room and assess the furniture you have. Are you keeping some pieces? Throwing it all out and starting over? You will probably think about how many people sit on the furniture and how it needs to fit in the room. You will probably take some measurements.

When we go clothes shopping we don’t do this, we go in and wing it! Why? It takes thought and planning to create a wardrobe that reflects your personal style and is functional for your life. 

If this has you feeling overwhelmed or questioning your style, check out my packages and reach out, we can make this easy and fun.

Let's go shopping!

I find shopping is a largely polarizing experience for women. You either LOVE it or you HATE it. Many of my clients truly hate shopping. Some don’t mind it but realize that they are not so great at it. Either way, I can promise you that shopping with me is a completely different experience than trying to go it alone.

I take away the stress of shopping. 

There’s the stress of the actual shopping experience. I know you know what I mean, unknown pricing, too many salespeople bothering you, not enough salespeople to help, you have to hold your clothes and your purse and your coat.

There’s also the stress we put on ourselves. Our insecurities come into play. You may be unsure of your size or uncertain of your style.

And then there’s a simple fact that many people shop wrong. Yes, there is a wrong way to shop.

We want your shopping trip to be purposeful. I call this mindful shopping, we go in with a plan and come out successful!

First, I spend some time to get to know you, your style, lifestyle, and challenges. If you're shopping on your own, it’s best for you to take some time to think about what clothes work best for you and what you need to get your desired look.

Next, we will plan where we’ll shop. When we work together, I base this on your budget, style, size, and fit. It doesn’t make sense to shop somewhere that doesn’t fit all of these criteria, and I am all about maximizing our time. 

To ultimately maximize our time, I will work with the store ahead of time to make sure they have the sizes and pieces we want to try on available on the day of our trip. As a fashion industry veteran, my connections and relationships with the stores will get us excellent customer service.

When you get to the store, you will find I have been there for a while already. I will have a dressing room set up just for you, with some pieces I have chosen that I know you’ll love. We get to jump right into the fun of trying things on and creating outfits.

Did you play dress up as a little girl? You can relive that fun in the dressing room. I serve as the go-between, helping you get what you want and need from the store’s salespeople without you having to feel like a nuisance or awkward, at all. There’s no judgment, and I show you things that flatter you. My whole goal is for you to feel amazing every step of the way! 

My process involves putting together full outfits from the right bra to the perfect shoes. I want you to go home with clothes you know how to wear and can wear from day one. If you have clothes at home that you love but don’t know how to wear, bring them with you! I will help you style those items so you can finally get some use out of them.

“But what if I don’t find anything?”

That has NEVER happened! Brace yourself because most of the time, the response I get is “holy crap, that’s a lot of stuff!”

“So if you’re not pushy, how do I know what to buy?”

You’ll know! That’s the whole point, to find the pieces you love and feel amazing in. I’ll help you determine which pieces are worth investing a little more money in and what is worth getting a less expensive version. I will help you find the right clothes for you. The right fit, the perfect style, and in all the right combinations. Our shopping trip will be fun and painless!

I Struggled to Find MY Style

When we talk about personal style, it is just that, personal! When I work with clients, I need to get to know them. I try to understand their personality, their lifestyle, and their habits. I want to know YOU so I can help you find YOUR style. 

But who am I? Why would you share all that with me? Let’s face it, some of this stuff can be a little embarrassing or hard to share with a stranger.

So you know what? I’ll go first. I’ll share my story with you, the good, the bad, and the awkward. (I’m a stylist, there is no ugly around here! ;-))

So, hi! I am Melanie, and I am your style consultant. I have always had an eye for fashion. From the awkward middle school years right up through high school, I just kind of knew what worked and what didn’t work when it came to clothes and capturing the right look. It made total sense that I went to school at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

But I have a secret. 

This fashionista has pretty much always struggled with what to wear and how to dress. For a long time, I was insecure about my body. I’m short, 5’1 to be exact and my body is heavier on the bottom. When I was younger, I struggled with finding age appropriate clothes that fit my body appropriately. Not to mention the fact that I was pretty much convinced I could never NOT wear heels. It made it really hard to embrace my body and even harder to find MY style.

I was a victim of trends.

I was trying so hard to feel better about how I looked that I went along with what everyone else was doing. I was trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.

When I had my first real job in the fashion world and started making money, I bought into all of it. I would hardly blink at spending $500 on a pair of shoes, buying even more expensive designer purses, and splurging on the hottest outfits at the various fashion events I was attending. None of it ever really felt like me, and I was going into debt trying to keep up.

As I grew as a professional, I knew that how I looked mattered. I also started to learn how I FELT mattered as well, and that was a turning point for me. 

I slowly started to find clothes that looked good on ME. I found my style and embraced it.

This is what I want for you. 

I want you to find YOUR STYLE. 

I want you to feel and look your best, whatever that means to you. We are not all meant to be on a runway and that means we get to dress and accessorize in ways that make us happy.

I love fashion, and I am good at it. I know what looks good. It is easy for me to put things together. 

AND I STILL STRUGGLED. 

I know how you feel when you try on 1700 outfits and still feel like you have nothing to wear. I know you’ve done the subscription boxes and still don’t seem to have an actual complete outfit. I know what it’s like to see your whole closet dumped out in front of you and think you should probably just stay in your PJs.

I can help!

Accessorizing with Intention!

One of my absolute favorite things to share with my clients is the confidence to accessorize and add more color into their wardrobe.  You are able to bring an outfit to the next level by using accessories… but that sometimes it’s hard to figure out where to start and how to avoid looking like you just raided your grandmother’s attic.

“I like to think of accessories as the glue that holds your outfit together…It pulls everything together to have it make sense.”

Edit the accessories you are wearing. Some make the mistake of piling on all the accessories they own at once. When it comes to accessorizing, less is usually more. If you're wearing jewelry, a tote, a scarf, a bold shoe and sunglasses, not one piece will stand out, and your outfit will end up looking like a hot mess. Choose a few pieces that accent your outfit or highlight the feature you want to play up.

• Wearing a whole jewelry suite, complete with earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings, can overwhelm your look. Try wearing either earrings or a necklace.

• If you you do wear a few accessories, make sure they aren't competing for attention and are streamlined. Match your metals and colors so that your accessories look like they were chosen with intention to ensure you look polished. For example, you could wear big gold hoops, a colorful warm-toned scarf, and a gold watch for a streamlined look.

Pair bold accessories with understated clothes!  A basic outfit of a cropped pant and a sweater can be completely transformed when you add a few bold accessories. If your wardrobe has a lot of neutrals like black, white, beige, grey or navy, accessorizing gives you a chance to play with fun colors and give your outfits a pop. The best thing about neutrals is that they look great with most other colors, so you don't have to worry too much about making sure your accessories match your clothes. Here are a few ways to use bold accessories to add some excited to your neutral outfits:

• Pair a thin red or hot pink belt with a black or navy dress.

• Wear a splashy orange or yellow scarf or shoes with khaki or olive-colored clothing.

• Freshen up your white blouse with a multicolored statement necklace or big drop earrings.

Wear items that play up a color in your outfit. If you're wearing a multicolored outfit, accessories can add interest by allowing you to bring out one of the understated colors. For example, if your dress is black with a small flower pattern, you might wear ceramic bangles that match the green of the flower's leaves. Playing up one color makes the outfit look pulled together and elegant.

• You can also use accessories to tie together two seemingly mismatched clothing items. Pick an accessory that shares colors with both of the clothing items, like a scarf that picks up the pink in your blouse and the beige in your pants. Now your outfit looks like it each piece was chosen with intention, rather than just thrown together.

Balance the size of your pieces. If you're wearing a pair of large, dangling earrings, don't pair them with an oversized statement accessory. Your look will be more balanced if you wear a smaller necklace (or no necklace at all) so that your face isn't overwhelmed by too much large jewelry. Keep the size of your various accessories in mind when you decide what to wear together.

• Accessories can also be used to balance details on your clothes. If you're wearing blouse with interesting embroidery near the collar, you wouldn't want to wear a big scarf to cover it up. Instead, choose a thin chain that will accent but not hide the details you want to show off.

• Let one item be the star of your look. If you're excited to wear an new hat you just bought, don't wear your bold new belt at the same time.

Choose items that enhance your features. Accessories give you the opportunity to bring out your best features. Well-chosen accessories can make your eyes look bigger, your neck look slender, or your calves look more defined.

• Wear large hoop earrings to accent the slant of your cheekbones.

• Wear a pump nude to elongate your legs.

• Wear a scarf that matches your eyes to make them look brighter.

• Wear a slender chain necklace to draw attention to your collarbones.

As i’ve mentioned… accessorizing is so my jam and I could talk about them until the cows come home… There are no cows where I live… so I will keep on chatting. Please join me if you’d like to know more… by scheduling a chat with me.

How to conceal a Mummy Tummy....

I have a lot of moms come to me for various reasons… they have a closet full of suits and aren’t sure what to wear to a playgroup to meet new mom friends, they are going back to work after taking sometime off and have no clue where to start, or they could wear a variety of forever 21 and h&m prior kids… but thats not cutting it any more especially with their new bodies. Let’s face it having a kid does a number on your body! It is never the same even no matter how much you diet, exercise, and complain The area that I hear that is most concerning is the post baby stomach (aka mummy tummy, mom pooch, or jelly belly.)

I'm a major proponent of focusing on the positive when it comes to body image... so I suggest drawing attention to what you love about yourself... draw attention up by wearing a statement necklace, an interesting neckline, or embellishment on your shoulders... If you love your legs wear a printed pant or a textured tight. Here’s some of my printed favorite pants and most are on sale… SCORE!

Wearing an embellishment on your shoulders draws the attention towards your face instead of your midsection.

I love this fun ruffle and bead one from Anthropologie… you can find it here.

Wearing something that lengthens your body is another trick I use... like a long necklace, a vertical detail or buttons... this forces someones eye to look up & down instead of left to right.

If you are looking to conceal your mid-section, I suggest looking for styles that are fitted by your bust and a little looser near your stomach (i.e. empire waist, peplum, ruched, or a faux wrap style.) Some may think to wear something baggy, but that actually makes you look larger and bulky. Here are some of my go to midsection concealing tops!

Want to learn more tips and tricks… sign up here

She's a Lady....

As much as I love clothing that is “borrowed from the boys” it’s always nice to get in touch with our feminine side. When sitting down with clients a common topic that comes up is that they want to dress like a more ladylike, but still want to be taken seriously. This is especially true with clients that are in a field that requires them to become to be extremely assertive like medicine, law, and finance. For years they have worn a uniform of suits and darks colors, but they don’t feel that it actually them or how they want to be perceived.

I have found that women that dress in a feminine way are actually perceived as being more powerful then someone that shows up in a navy pant suit. It may have something to do with the confidence that a women in a hot pink dress exudes over someone that is trying to blend in. When you are wearing something that may be considered to be a little flashy or not typical, you make calling attention to yourself and telling people that you have an opinion that they should listen to.

I am not suggesting showing up like Reese Witherspoon in Legally Blonde, but adding a few feminine details into your wardrobe (especially ones that you personally like) will make you feel more confident and will get you positive attention. Here are a few suggestion on how to get some lady like details into your closet.

Form-fitting is your friend
Strike a balance between skin-tight and baggy with pieces that flaunt your body in just the right ways. Click here to see some of my favorite fitted dresses.

Leith’s Brand sold at Nordstrom has lots of dress options that hug in all the right places

Skirting the Issue
A skirt is a calling card for an ultra-feminine women! When selecting a skirt, be mindful of the portion of your skirt to top…. for more information check out my post on proportional dressing. Take a peek at these fabulous skirts.

Belt it
You’ve likely got some curves, so why not show them off? A belt at your natural waist is a no-brainer solution.
Click here for some amazing belted jackets, dresses, and blazers.

Pop of Color
The perfect lady like contrast to black is a bold color that makes a statement. If the color isn’t near your face be sure to wear an accessory in the same color near your face to grow the attention back there. here are some of my top picks.

Embrace Lace
Is there anything more feminine than lace? Click here for some great pieces with killer lace accents.

I’m in love with this lace trench from french connection that is on sale for $140

Add a touch of embellishment
A bit of embellishment on a top or skirt is a ladylike touch that can stand in for jewelry. Here are some awesome styles with a little sparkle.

Show a little Ruffle
Something about a frilled detail is inherently girly. Click Here for a few pieces that are perfectly ruffled.

Veronica Beard has the best dresses that are the perect amount of feminine.

Need help up-leveling your wardrobe? Let’s chat! Book a call with me today!