I talk a lot about staying "true" to who you are, because I feel it's one of the areas that matters most when it comes to our wardrobes. You know that feeling whenever you just love something on the hanger or perhaps on your friend, and then you try it on and immediately you say, "No way - that's not me!" You know it deep inside.
Where we sometimes get derailed is when our view of our true selves gets muddied, such as when we are going through major life changes or when we realize that we've been hanging on to a previous 'self' but don't yet know how to define our 'next self'. One exercise I've found that helps is for clients to pull photos (from magazines or Pinterest) that appeal to them - no questions, just collect them. Then we go through those photos and find the common threads that tie them together. Another exercise is to select words that you feel describe you (or words you want to describe you.)
This newsletter is devoted to letting you play around a bit with both words and pictures and see what you come up with that best describes your style - your "fashion archetype." You may find that you're a bit of a mix between styles; on the other hand, you may discover that one archetype fits you perfectly. The next step is to take a look at your closet and be honest about which items are relevant and true to you, and which ones are long past their 'toss by' date. If you need a bit of help with this, and believe me many people do, please let me know. We'll get something scheduled so that your authentic self of today can shine.
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FASHION ARCHETYPES
Being True to Your Authentic Self
Let's start off having some fun with word descriptors. Pick out six words from the following list that you feel describe you best. They may not be exact, but this is not an exact science. Have a little fun and go with your heart!  Now that you've got some words to associate with your style, let's try to put a general definition on that style - an archetype. If you've picked mostly green words, you tend toward the Luxury Peasant/Bohemian. There is a sense of wonder, romance and creativity in your soul. You appreciate beauty across the eras and notice refinement. You enjoyed playing 'dress up' as a child and are an imaginative adult. The collection below is an example of how the Luxury Peasant might dress. You can also visit my Pinterest board for more examples.
If you picked mostly red words, you tend toward the Preppy Chic/Classic style. While this is not LL Bean, you're drawn to tradition. It comes naturally to you to be on time, organized and pulled together. You can find security in high quality labels and don't mind if people notice. You prefer timelessness to 'fast-fashion.' More examples here. If you picked mostly purple words, you're more of a Risk-Taker/Edgy style. Your goal isn't to push other people's buttons, but to fearlessly express yourself. You'll expand the boundaries of what's possible. If you aren't entirely understood by everyone, you don't need to be. More examples on my Pinterest board.
If you picked mostly blue words, you're an Organic Fashionista. Less is more and you pay attention to form, function and origin. You are a nature lover who's also tech savvy. You're not afraid to pay more for a well-sourced product.
Lastly, if you picked mostly yellow words, you're an Edgy Sophisticate/Dramatic style. You live in a town, small or large, but are a New Yorker at heart - even if you've never been there. You have understated glamour. Your outfits always have a unique element, but you're not seeking the center of attention. You are too busy living your own life.
 What's your primary archetype? Does your wardrobe reflect this style? If it doesn't, then getting dressed every day can be a bit of a struggle. If you'd like a little assistance putting together some outfits
or doing a closet purge, let me know.
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I recently posted this photo on my Facebook page (unfortunately, I don't know for certain where it originated.) I thought it was a terrific illustration of how the correct proportions in an outfit changed it from frumpy to fabulous. It's also a great reminder that the tailor is your friend - a few nips and tucks can work miracles.
I always love to share videos that take a look behind the scenes of a beautifully crafted garment or handbag. Enjoy this peek into the making of a Dior handbag.
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By now your winter boots have been getting a workout, especially those of you enduring those seemingly endless ice and snow storms, so it may be time for a little TLC, especially for those suede boots and shoes. Here are a few tips to help freshen up that suede before you (hopefully, finally) put them away for the season.  | | StyleList |
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A GIFT CERTIFICATE IS THE PERFECT GIFT TO GIVE AND TO RECEIVE.
I'm happy to provide gift certificates that can be used for closet clean-ups, wardrobe consultations, or personal shopping - whatever the recipient would like. Please keep this in mind for your loved ones (even if that loved one is you!)
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I came across this cute little illustration that I thought was a great visual for what we're talking about this month - being your authentic self. Only you can be authentically you - so don't be afraid to embrace your originality in how you express yourself to the world - even when, or maybe especially when, that self changes through the years. All my best to all of you!
VP Marketing, Social Media & Website, 2014-2015
AICI SFBA
Member Redwood City Chamber of Commerce
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WARDROBE SERVICES
*Wardrobe Consultation *Closet Organization *Special Occasion & Seasonal Shopping
*Personal Style Analysis *Speaker for your club, business or organization
GENERAL SERVICES
Office and general closet organization
All of my services are customized for your individual needs. If you have questions or need something you don't see listed here, just email me or give me a call so we can chat! |
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