As we close out 2022, here is a little “style food” for thought. The many “to dos” during the holiday season are exhausting. So, let’s take a step back as we enter 2023 with an open mindset about our image and style. Rather than attacking personal style as we have our holiday tasks, let go of expectations of what your style “should be” so that it can be something fresh and new, aligned with who you are today.
My wish for you and for me is that we always look current and stylish. While it is always my goal to educate clients on style rules, I want my clients to wisely break the rules as it suits the situation and as it fits with their personal style and personality. Style has little to do with following a rigid set of rules. You might say that style begins where rules end.
That said, here are five tips for opening your style to new possibilities in the New Year:
Stop Following Trends
Yes, you read that correctly. While it is important to remain abreast of the season’s trends so your fashion knowledge is current, trend-following is an exercise in futility. Over my 15 years as a style coach, I have read countless lists of what’s in and what’s out, only to find the list has flip-flopped a few months later. Rather than spending energy on the “it” things of the season, focus on acquiring what you love and wear it with joy. If the item isn’t a current trend, wear it like it is because at some point it will be. Then, you can take credit for getting the trend started!
Ignore Seasonal Rules
You know the list: no white after Labor Day, no suede in spring/summer, no patent leather shoes in winter, etc. If fashion designers are no longer following seasonal style rules, why should you? While I suggest you dress appropriately for your climate (i.e. leather in mid-summer in Dallas just won’t do), I also encourage you to toss a few seasonal rules out your window. They are not as relevant as they once were. This opens the door to greater creativity and fun with your style.
Wear Less Makeup (or more)
If you normally make a bold statement with your makeup, peddle it back a bit and notice how fresh and alive you look with a more natural face. If you normally wear a mostly bare face, try a pop of color on your lips, go a bit thicker with eye liner or try a rosy hue on your cheeks. Others get used to your makeup routine as much as you do. By periodically changing your makeup, it keeps everyone guessing and makes getting ready a lot more fun.
Let Your Hair Be Free
Bad hair days feel ruinous. By working with your natural hair texture, you will have fewer bad hair days because you won’t be fighting what your hair does naturally. If your hair is in between textures, try curling it in the humid months of spring and summer, and smoothing it in the fall and winter. Make peace with your hair texture, and you’ll save yourself a lot of trouble and look amazing.
Accept Your Body Shape
Time spent anguishing over the number on your bathroom scale is wasted. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important, but so is accepting and loving your natural body shape. Get rid of expectations of being a certain size and begin dressing your body in a way that gives it balance. As soon as you forget about the numbers and start dressing joyfully in a way that flatters you, your style quotient will go through the roof!
Need Guidance? Call Me!
I’m here for you if you want “back up.” Your wardrobe should fee supportive, an extension of you. If there is a disconnect, let’s work together to edit your wardrobe and shop for the pieces that truly communicate your style. Email me to get started. To learn more about me, visit my website.
Happy New Year!
I can’t believe I’ve been an image consultant for 15 years this month! What a joy it has been to serve you. Thank you for your support and for reading my blog. Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a very Happy New Year!
