Embracing the Capsule Wardrobe: Finding Joy in Less

In a world inundated with fast fashion and overflowing closets, finding joy in a smaller, more concise wardrobe might seem like a daunting task. However, as someone who has undergone a transformative journey from fashion excess to the simplicity of a capsule wardrobe, I can attest to the incredible power it holds in not just simplifying your style, but also in unlocking a sense of empowerment and joy.

Confessions of a Former Shopaholic

Hands up, I confess: I used to do it all wrong. From being a shopaholic to hoarding fast fashion pieces, my wardrobe was once bursting at the seams with items I rarely wore. However, life had other plans for me, and a move from Italy to London nine years ago forced me to confront the chaos of my closet and reevaluate my relationship with fashion.

The Journey to Wardrobe Renaissance

Downsizing my closet became a necessity, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It marked the beginning of my journey towards a wardrobe renaissance. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of letting go of my excess of clothing, I embraced it as an opportunity to redefine my personal style and embrace a more intentional approach to dressing.

Personal Styling Principles

One of the pivotal moments in my wardrobe transformation was applying the same styling principles I used on others to myself. I began to discern what truly empowered me and what was merely cluttering my closet. By focusing on pieces that complemented my figure, lifestyle, and personality, I was able to curate a wardrobe that reflected my authentic self.

Strategic Shopping

Gone were the days of aimlessly browsing through racks of clothing in pursuit of the latest trends. Instead, I adopted a more strategic approach to shopping. Every purchase became a deliberate choice, guided by the principles of quality over quantity. By investing in fewer, but higher-quality pieces, I not only reduced clutter but also cultivated a collection of timeless staples that stood the test of time.

Quality over Quantity

The shift from a mindset of quantity to one of quality was a game-changer. Rather than succumbing to the allure of cheap, disposable fashion, I learned to appreciate the craftsmanship and durability of well-made garments. This shift not only had a positive impact on my wardrobe but also on my overall mindset towards consumption and sustainability.

Advocating for the Capsule Wardrobe

Today, as a passionate advocate for the capsule wardrobe lifestyle, I am committed to helping others unlock the power of a curated closet. It's not just about having fewer clothes; it's about having the right clothes – pieces that bring joy, confidence, and versatility into your everyday life. Whether you're embarking on your own wardrobe journey or simply seeking inspiration to simplify your style, I invite you to join me in embracing the beauty of less and discovering the joy that comes from a wardrobe that truly sparks joy.

In a world where more is often equated with better, the concept of a capsule wardrobe offers a refreshing alternative. By prioritising quality over quantity and embracing a more intentional approach to dressing, we can not only simplify our lives but also rediscover the joy and empowerment that comes from a curated closet. So, why not take the first step towards a more mindful wardrobe today? Trust me, the journey is well worth it.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: 7 WAYS TO STYLE A LEATHER JACKET

A leather jacket is a staple for many people and can truly be versatile, besides being a crossover piece. The way to wear a leather jacket has changed over time, and today it really is one must-have piece that is able to add personality to a piece of clothing and style it up. From dresses, to trousers and skirts, everybody just needs to find their perfect shape, colour and also material (from vegan to genuine). So, if you’re looking for ways to make a leather shirt a new feature in your closet, or perhaps change up the one you wear in new ways, then this article will share 7 ways to style up your leather jacket!

Try a different shape

When you think of a quintessential leather jacket, you will probably be thinking of a classic biker jacket shape – cropped, with large lapels, and perhaps with a belt at the bottom. Now, for some body types, this looks incredible, whereas for others it just isn’t the right shape for you. When you are looking to invest in a leather jacket, you’ll want to try out a few shapes and styles to see which looks best for you, and works best for your style.

From a cropped option but in a draped or peplum style, which works well for people who are looking for a more relaxed form; to a longer leather jacket that works beautifully on those with a larger bust. Try looking for jackets in different shapes until you find one that you feel confident in.

Work with a different colour

Who said you have to just have a black leather jacket? With the incredible changes in options with dyeing, as well as options that are alternatives to leather, you really can change it up! If you love a particular colour, you will probably be able to find a leather or faux-leather jacket in that colour.

You can discover leather jackets in rose pink, or even gold, which means you really can change up your jacket game without having to give up on your colour-loves! For a classic look, but still with the edge of a leather style, try out a white leather jacket that can replace your classic white suit jacket.

Leather jacket and jeans

Let’s start with an easy-to-work look with your leather jacket – jeans, boots, and a tee. Simple, elegant, and classically cool. If you’re wearing a classic cropped jacket, then this will work beautifully with high rise jeans in a dark colour. Depending on your body shape, you can tuck in your favourite tee, add a chunky belt and go full rock chick. Whereas, for a more elegant look, try adding stilettos or open toed heels with your jeans, and add a turtle neck (autumn/winter perfection!).

Leather jacket and a dress

If you love wearing your dresses and need to find a way to keep yourself a little warmer, or to add a little “rock ‘n’ roll” to an outfit, then you really can’t go wrong with your leather jacket! A maxi dress with frills and flowers has a fantastic juxtaposition with a leather jacket, while a more tough denim dress brings even more edge. While you can bring your sexy little black dress out, with an additional over layer of your black leather jacket – I love this look too, as it is perfect for a date or dinner with friends.

Leather Jacket Replaces Your Blazer

Now, if you love a blazer, but are looking for a way to dress down your workwear, pack your leather jacket with you, and throw it over your suit trousers and blouse, bring in some bright jewellery and you’re ready for a night out! A blazer is one of my favourite staples in a wardrobe, but it sometimes isn’t appropriate for the event, or your personal style, so while you are wearing a more formal pair of wide leg trousers, and a crisp white blouse, you can instantly swap the blazer for your leather jacket.

For an even more demure look, keep on your suit and add your leather jacket over the top – this is best with an over sized jacket, or slung over your shoulders!

Wear your leather jacket with a mini skirt and knee high boots

I recently shared an article on the top 5 items you should have in your wardrobe for Autumn/Winter, and one of my favourite was the over the knee boot! These boots work really well with a mini skirt that is brought into a more casual style with your leather jacket. I recommend an a-line skirt if you want to try out the shorter style but have more of a curvaceous figure or have a more formal event to attend.

Leather Jacket with a midi skirt

Does the mini skirt feel a little too short for you? No worries – your leather jacket can work beautifully with a midi or full-length skirt. I personally love matching the metallic features of the zips and studs of a moto jacket with a feminine metallic midi skirt – pair it with some high heels for an evening look, or wear your sneakers to bring a little casual chic to the look.

The leather jacket really is a versatile piece to have within your wardrobe and if it feels like it would work within your personal style, now you have 7 great ways to play with it! I’d love to hear how you are styling up your moto jacket in your wardrobe, or if you are thinking about getting one, and are unsure where to start, I can help with my online personal styling service.

TIPS FOR WEARING YOUR FACE MASK WITH STYLE

Perhaps not everyone is wearing a face mask each and every day, but they have become an essential item to wear. However, with these safety measures that are keeping us all safe and allowing us to finally get out to the office, to shops, and to see friends at a safe distance, I have heard that people are struggling with certain aspects.

Here are my top tips to help you wear your face mask, without having the issues I have heard my clients share with me.

Make-up tips when wearing a face mask:

1. Focus on your eyes. As wearing lipstick is pretty useless when wearing a face mask as it can smudge, or people just aren’t going to see it, now is a great time to bring focus onto our eyes.

2. Use fun colours to help bring some joy into your and other people’s days, by showing off your personality through your eye make-up!

3.  Use concealer to help cover any redness or dark circles[Stefania 1] , so that your eyes can remain the focus of your face, whilst making you feel your most confident.  

Tips for choosing your face mask:

1.  Choose a mask in one of your best colours. What colours go best with your personality, your skin tone, your eye colour, and your wardrobe? With so many face mask options out there, you can be spoiled for choice, so make sure it is working for you.

2. Make your face mask a part of your accessories. Sequins, patterns, different shapes – these are all elements that are now being added to face masks by designers, so you really can have fun with your face mask, and make it a real accessory.

3. Consider eco-friendly, and washable options. There are some great designers out there who are giving back through the sale of their face masks – which can be a great way to give back to the community, whilst also caring for one another through wearing this essential safety item.

Where to buy your eco-friendly and washable face masks, in the UK:

To help you find some more fun, colourful, and eco-friendly face masks here are a list of shops I have found.

Pucker Masks

These colourful masks are all created by UK seamstresses who have been out of work due to Covid and are paid a living wage. They also have an adjustable nose bridge and a pocket for a filter, should you wish to add one. Added onto this, they also give 25% of their profits to charity.

NotJustClothing

This UK brand is offering a truly bespoke experience with customisable face masks. You can have a UK tube station, a word, or initials added to these minimal face masks. They are also made in the UK, are carbon neutral, with 50% of their profits from their face masks (and their t-shirts) going to Masks for NHS Heroes.

Isabel Manns

This UK-based womenswear company create their face masks, as well as all of their clothes, with fabric cut to minimise waste. Each of their face masks are reversible, and profits from their sale goes to the NHS. With an incredible range of patterns and colours, you really can let your personality shine with these masks.

Migrate Art

The charity, based in the UK, have created a range of reversible, reusable, and washable face masks in collaboration with 10 artists. They have a campaign called #masksformeals which has been set up so that 100% of the profits from sales of their masks will go to Refugee Community Kitchen to help them feed the homeless in the UK.

During these uncertain times, it can be worrying to consider what to do next, and you are not alone. I hope with these tips, you will feel more confident prior to your next shopping trip, and will have a face mask that truly reflects your personality. If you would like assistance with a personal shopper who can maximise your time, and make your experience less stressful, then please get in touch.

PERSONAL STYLING TIPS: 3 STEPS TO STYLE SUCCESS

Style can feel a little overwhelming as an aspect – many of my clients feel they don’t know their own style before coming to me. They do know that they like certain fashions and styling, but are unsure where to start.

In this article, I wanted to share 3 steps you can take to help you start your journey to finding your own style, and make it a pleasure rather than stressful.

Step 1 – Colour can make all the difference!

Have you ever noticed there are certain colours you may gravitate to? Perhaps there are patterns and colours that make you feel your most confident? These are often the best colours for your wardrobe and for your skintone, which can be a great starting point to your style vision.

Look at your wardrobe and see which colour/s you see most of in there. Do these colours make you feel confident, beautiful, even sexy? These are the colours that you can go towards for the future investment pieces that you make.

I do suggest a more in-depth colour analysis to truly know the colours that work best for you, but to help you for the short-term, this step can be really helpful!

Step 2 – Consider what your day to day life looks like

Now that you know the colours you want to include in your style, you can think about the types of clothes that will work for your every day life.

What do you get up to each day? Are you running to the office and require professional looks to maximise your confidence and feel appropriate for the office?

Perhaps you are a business owner and head to meetings with clients, as well as needing comfortable clothes to work from home, but that can instantly swap out to work for the virtual meetings?

When you know what your daily needs are, then you can look at what can work for your wardrobe. Your style doesn’t have to follow the rules that others impose, but they do need to work for your needs. If you are a busy mother who runs your own business, 6 inch stilettos and pencil skirts may not be the most appropriate thing for your day to day style needs! However, you could have a pencil skirt and wedges, if that feels right for you.

This takes me onto step three!

Step 3 – Who are your style icons?

Something I often ask my clients in our Personal Style Masterclass, is who their style icons are. What makes them your icon?

Knowing who dresses in a way that you love can really help you find clothing that is similar, and can help you create a style that works for you. There can be several icons you can find that can have similar styles, so it can help you really drill down and see what styles are the ones you gravitate to. One of my clients I worked with recently shared that her style icon was Cate Blanchette, with an androgynous style and blazers that stand out, this helped her curate a wardrobe with outfits she loved.

When you feel your wardrobe sings your personality, and works towards building your daily confidence, dressing can be a pleasure each morning. If you are finding it difficult each day to plan an outfit, or go through clothes overwhelm, I’d love to help you with my Personal Styling Masterclass, where we will have 2 hours to create a style, learn your body and face shape to enable you to find the styles that work for you, and make you more confident each day. 

TOP TIPS TO DEVELOP YOUR PERSONAL BRANDING AND ALIGN IT WITH YOUR PERSONAL STYLE

When it comes to running a business, your brand is something that makes you unique. Often, this branding is something that you work on studiously with a professional, so you can ensure that your business shares the right message, style, personality, ethos, values, and attracts the right clients. This branding is something that can carry across to your personal style, and it is something I love helping my entrepreneur clients work on together, so we can align their business brand with their personal brand.

Something I must share before I get into the nitty gritty, is that you don’t have to be a business owner to have a personal brand or personal style. When you discover your personal brand it makes shopping effortless, styling yourself stress-free, and helps you discover the style that you love for yourself, for each day. So whilst this article starts out with the background of business branding for entrepreneurs and how they can align their personal style with it, this can be beneficial to anyone looking to create a personal style that they can feel confident and comfortable in each day.

Authenticity is the base for your personal style

When I co-hosted a workshop with branding expert Marianne Hartley in May 2020, we spoke about the way business branding and personal branding can come together. The first thing we picked up on was the essential element to any personal branding and personal styling journey is authenticity. To be authentically yourself is something that can become a blessing each day. When you feel you can be confidently yourself, you will feel more comfortable, attract the right people to you, and you will be able to distinguish yourself in a unique way, without feeling uncomfortable.

When you can curate an authentic wardrobe that you can go to with confidence, you will be able to be yourself when it comes to conveying your message to new potential clients, in meetings, and through social media. Consider a few questions when starting to discover your authentic style:

1.       What do I feel most confident in?

2.       What style icons do I gravitate to the most, and why?

3.       What message do I want to convey to clients and with my personal style?

These are just a few questions you can ask yourself when you start to take the journey to working on your authentic style wardrobe!

The psychology of colours

I recently shared an article which takes a deeper look into the psychology of the colours we wear, and how they can be seen by others & affect your mood, which you can read here. Colours can be an incredibly important part of your business branding process, as you will discover when you speak with your branding expert. They can have hidden meanings, deliver certain reactions for people, and create an instant response when people see your branding. The same goes for the colours you choose in your outfits. Not only are colours an important part of helping you feel a certain way, as well as helping your specific skin tone light up (which can be discovered through a colour analysis), but they can also develop an instant psychological response by people who see the colour.

With just the above three options I have shared, different reactions to their colour choices for their outfits will happen, automatically and subconsciously within you. They are all professional women, who have chosen their outfits based on their personal style choices, their branding, and their confidence. This is not to say any colour is “wrong” to wear, it’s to consider what colours work best for your business and personal branding, so you can easily and effectively convey your personal message quickly, without having to say a word.

The reason why I love being a personal stylist is that I can work with men and women to help them create a wardrobe that speaks their message, helps keep them confident each day, and help them to discover the joy of shopping and creating outfits. This is never more important than with the colour choices they have – as this can so effectively boost your confidence in a moment.

Clarity and Consistency

My final tip, when discovering how to create a personal brand and personal style for yourself, is that you need to make sure you give the right message through your image, that your image quickly tells who you are and what you do at first sight, as well as making sure that this message is aligned with your brand message. That’s a lot to take in, I know! So let’s just quickly discuss the clarity side of your personal style.

When you work with someone, like a personal stylist, to help you develop your business wardrobe, you will speak with them about the day to day requirements of your wardrobe. You will also speak with them about the message you want to convey to those you meet, whether this is “confident and laid back”, “quirky and unique”, “professional and trustworthy” or any mix of feelings you want to bring to others. With this in mind, you have therefore discovered the clarity you need to have within your business wardrobe, making it much easier to know what outfits and colours can be used to convey these messages quickly to others, just through your personal styling. Just as you would do with a branding expert to create your logo, your website, and your marketing message!

For example, with a quirky, feminine personal style, like the first image above, you can play with the shapes of your dresses, the patterns, and even the colours, whilst continuing to have clarity around the message you wish to convey. In the second styling option, you can convey a professional yet approachable message, with the jewellery being a stand-out piece throughout your styling, and having a more laid-back styling option with your clothes, which you can easily add more professional styling with just with a change of shirt or less jewellery. Finally, a professional and corporate option as with the third styling image, will be easy to continue throughout your outfits with the addition of a blazer, suit trousers, a shirt, or more laid back blazer if you want to remain professional but perhaps a little laid back.

Once you have the clarity around what message you want to give to others through your business styling, you can then create the consistency within your wardrobe. You can have outfits that are easy to create each day, helping you to have a stress-free morning, and you can easily find new options when you go shopping.

If you are looking to develop your personal brand, or create a wardrobe that can be a joy to open up each morning, then I hope this article has helped. If you’d like a little more assistance to help you on your journey to creating a personal style, I’d love to help you. I offer my online personal style masterclass in just 2 hours, which can be hosted online and will help you create a personal style that you feel confident in. Give me a call to arrange a free virtual consultation and we can take it from there!