In the spirit of trying to play by the rules and wear what you think is appropriate, or, what you “should” wear, it is really easy to end up losing yourself in a style that just isn’t an authentic version of who you are. Often times you end up thinking something is your style, when it is actually the opposite of the look and feel you want to achieve from your clothing.
To feel more authentic about who you are in your clothes you have to dress intentionally. This means you purposefully choose clothing that makes you feel and look a certain way. You become very disciplined about what you buy and what is allowed to live in your closet. If a shirt doesn’t make you feel great and doesn’t help you portray who you are, it’s simply not for you. That doesn’t mean that there is something wrong with you, or your body, it just means that it’s not the shirt for you. There will be plenty others!
Clothing then becomes something that you enjoy wearing, not something you have to wear because you can’t leave the house naked. Getting dressed becomes easier each morning. Think about the days you are able to dress quickly and easily. Those are usually the days that you love what you are wearing. Alternatively, it takes a few tries to put on an outfit that doesn’t match who you are. You’ll change your clothes over and over again because they never feel quite right. It never feels authentic.
The next time you are out shopping, or editing your closet, I encourage you to really think about your clothing. Does your clothing match the image you want to portray? Does it make you feel great? If not, spend some time figuring out the disconnect and become disciplined about what clothing truly puts a kick in your step.
This is the season for shopping! Follow these shopping rules for a more successful shopping experience.
1. A deal isn’t always a deal.
You only wear 20% of the clothing you own. For a second go back and think about the 80% of your clothing that you don’t wear. How much of that did you buy because it seemed like a great deal? Deals can often get you into trouble. Based on price alone you often end up buying items you don’t really need. You’re seduced by the price tag, not the way they can serve you and your style. Be disciplined about what you need. If you know that you desperately need shoes that are appropriate for work and only have a certain budget, a designer dress no matter how great of a deal, isn’t going to help you figure out what shoes to wear on Monday morning.
2. You should be able to think of more than one way to wear something before purchasing.
The second rule of shopping is that you shouldn’t buy something unless it can be worn multiple times or in multiple ways. When you are shopping for new items think about how they can mix in with the clothing you already own. If you’re considering buying a great jacket, think about whether or not it will be versatile enough to wear to work and also casually on the weekend with a pair of jeans. Or is it a jacket that you don’t have anything to wear with. There are lots of pieces that make up that 80% of your clothing that you don’t wear that were bought because you figured you would find something to wear with them later, but never did. Be disciplined about what you need and how it can work for you.
3. Your body is not the enemy.
The third shopping rule is to remember that your body is not the enemy. That may sound funny, but what’s not funny is that for many of you shopping is really frustrating. We end up taking out our frustration of not finding something on ourselves. It is not your fault when something doesn’t fit you quite right. The challenge is that we are all totally different sizes and proportions. Some brands and cuts simply might not work for your body shape, but others will.
Special Fundraiser
Live Auction at SC Thrift & Resale to Benefit CFW
Clean out those closets and drawers! Organize your garage! Donate your gently used clothing, accessories, furniture, books and other household goods to SC Thrift & Resale. Your donated items will be sold or auctioned to raise money for the Center for Women. We are particularly looking for furniture, lamps, jewelry, objects d’art and paintings for our first live auction. Tax deductible receipts will be issued for all donated goods. FREE pick up for larger items.
Thursday, October 15 | 6:30 p.m. (Preview begins at Noon)
SC Thrift & Resale Store, 1670 Hwy 17 N, Mt Pleasant, (843) 971-0552
One of the most common mistakes people make with their work wardrobe is dressing in a way that is too casual. Yes, it is comfortable but it can also portray you as someone who doesn’t take their work seriously. For example, if you visit your financial planner on a day where she is wearing clothing more appropriate for the beach, you will wonder if she will make appropriate decisions with your money and most likely take your money elsewhere.
Take a look at this picture. This mannequin is wearing a t-shirt and skirt paired with my version of a fancy flip flop. She looks great but is dressed in a very casual way.
Based on her outfit, what does she do?
A sales clerk? A Mom running errands? Someone on their day off?
Now look at this picture. This mannequin is wearing the same outfit paired with a jacket and more professional shoe.
Based on her outfit, what does she do?
Interior Design? Architect? Marketing expert? Web Designer?
Putting on a jacket and heel took a total of 3 seconds. What a difference it makes. Her new look is still casual but much more professional, giving her and her business credibility and interest.
What are you wearing to work?
If you feel overwhelmed by this season’s multitude of trends, concentrate on these 5 key pieces for Fall. These pieces add versatility and “trend” to your existing wardrobe.
This Season’s Most Versatile Pieces:
1. Scarves- Scarves are a very fun wardrobe addition because they offer a fun and sophisticated pop of color to an outfit, and can also be used for the functional purpose of warmth. They can be worn many different ways and look great paired with dresses, jackets, cardigans, and tops.
2. Jacket or Cardigan- Wardrobe pieces like a jacket or cardigan instantly tie a look together, making you look more put together. Pair a jacket over your favorite summer tank or dress and you’re ready for fall.
3. Belts- Try wearing a belt at your waist or at the narrowest part of you. Belts help define your shape, add visual interest, and allow you to give wardrobe pieces different looks.
4. Tights- Tights are an underrated accessory that you will see everywhere this fall. They add pizzazz and style to an outfit. Go bold with a contrasting color, or chic with a tonal patterned tight.
5. Boots- When you put on a pair of boots you are ready for fall. They are one of the most versatile shoes you can own because you can pair them with skirts, dresses, and pants.
Let Charleston Style Concierge help you build a wardrobe that is versatile and fun for every season. Contact us by visiting http://www.charlestonstyleconcierge.com.
As the weather and landscape changes, so must our wardrobe. Even though September can still be hot and sticky, the time has come to begin planning your transition from summer clothes to fall clothes.
Wardrobe transitioning doesn’t entail an entire shopping spree. The transition is more about working with what you already have to create a new look and different comfort level. Adding layers to your attire will slightly alter your look from summer- to fall-wear, and ensure you’re comfortable in the lower temperatures.
There are two crucial steps involved in a summer-to-fall wardrobe transition: (1) Clearing the clutter / bringing out fall clothes and (2) Making the change.
Step One: Clearing the Clutter / Bringing Out Fall Clothes
It’s time to fight through the cobwebs of your crawl space and pull out some of those plastic containers holding your fall clothes. Once you’ve dodged the dust and spiders, it’s time to sift through your fall clothes. Look for light jackets, cardigans, sweaters, scarves, pants, and long-sleeve shirts. While you’re sifting, take note of clothes you know you haven’t worn in the last year or two and place them in a separate pile—I’ll touch more on the purpose of this pile later on.
Now that you have your selection of light jackets, cardigans, sweaters, scarves, pants, and long-sleeve shirts, sift through your summer clothes to see what will work with a cover up and what won’t. Usually, dresses and skirts that are knee length or longer can be worn in the fall, but anything shorter you might be too cold—so put away your shorter skirts and dresses to make room for fall items. Shorts should also be placed in storage.
NOTE: While sifting through your summer clothes, place items you didn’t wear this summer or last summer in the same pile you placed unworn fall clothes.
Now, you should have several pairs of light jackets, cardigans, sweaters, scarves, pants, long-sleeve shirts, knee length—or longer—dresses and skirts, camisoles, tanks, and blouses to mix and match for fall. All other items should be placed back in storage for next spring.
Step Two: Making the Change:
Cropped / fitted jackets go perfectly with tanks, blouses, dresses, and skirts to achieve a new fall look and hold in more warmth. If you don’t have a cropped / fitted jacket, you might find it highly beneficial to purchase one. Because they are so versatile, cropped / fitted jackets are a fall must-have. I suggest going for neutral colored jackets that can be worn with a variety of colors and shirt styles. Navy, black, white, and tan are perfect for mixing and matching.
If the weather is still too warm for a cropped / fitted jacket, try wearing a light scarf, cropped sweater, or cardigan to accent your outfit and inject a little fall style. Light scarves, cropped sweaters, and cardigans have the miraculous ability to instantly transform a summer outfit into a fall outfit—making it appear as though you bought a whole new fall wardrobe.
Another fall staple is the pencil skirt. Because of their versatility, pencil skirts can be worn with a variety of different tops, jewelry, and accessories. Enhance your fall image with a sleek, simple, and sophisticated pencil skirt, sure to give you the confidence and effortless style you’ve been looking for.
As for the pile you placed all of your fall and summer rejects in, this is going to Goodwill. Don’t hold back—you’ll feel much more organized without it. I promise.
If you need help finding the perfect fall clothes for your personal style or need some fall style tips, let Charleston Style Concierge be your personal shopper. You’ll come out with clothes that are comfortable, sophisticated, and fit your individual personality. Charleston Style Concierge is dedicated to helping men and women feel more confident by developing a unique personal style. Contact us today at 843.323.2466.
Before you get dressed for work, take the time to make sure you have put the same attention and detail into yourself as you do your work.
1. Dowdy or outdated clothing: If your clothing looks old or outdated, people will automatically assume your way of doing business is also outdated and should be passed by.
2. Clothing that is too revealing: It is hard to appear professional in clothing that is too revealing. Even if you attend an evening work event, a plunging neckline (this goes for both men and women) may not be appropriate.
3. Too casual or comfortable clothing: Dressing too casually often translates as lazy. You may be the hardest working individual in the room, but your clothing is saying the opposite.
4. Forgetting that details matter: The details of your clothing paint a picture about the character of both you and your business. Wrinkled pants and scuffed shoes will not give a potential client the confidence you can handle the details of their complex business.
5. Wearing clothing with slogans, logos, or prominent brand names other than your own: After all, who are you working for?
6. Clothing that doesn’t make sense for your audience: Think about who you will be working with before getting dressed. Will your audience respond better to your branded polo shirt or a very classic and professional button down?
7. Clothes that do not fit or flatter: Clothing that is too tight can look trashy and cheap. Clothing that is too big looks sloppy and unprofessional. Discover how to dress your body type and wear clothing that fits.
8. Ultra trendy clothing: Clothing that is ultra trendy can look like a costume. Stick to classic pieces that are infused with elements of your own personal style.
9. Clothing that doesn’t make sense for the industry you are in: Your clothing should make you look as if you are a credible member of your industry. Your clothes tell potential clients that you belong and are successful at what you do.
10. Clothing you don’t feel confident in: The right clothes will make you feel invincible, allowing you to sell your product or services with confidence.
Don’t let your clothing hold you back at work. Make sure your image helps you create your professional success. For help learning what your clothing says about you contact Charleston Style Concierge at 833.323.2466.
Success is made up of multiple factors, but the way you dress plays a big role in the lifespan and path of your career. Studies show your appearance can even influence the perceived quality of your work. A go-getter assistant who’s always wearing a tailored suit will be thought of as highly promoteable, whereas an equally ambitious woman who has poor clothing might not be thought of at all.
We live in a very visual society. It takes 7 seconds for someone to form an impression about you. In that short timeframe your potential boss or client can actually determine your career path. From your appearance alone they’ve decided whether or not you are competent and someone they want to do business with, or a flake that cannot be trusted. It’s harsh, but true. We all make snap judgments about people. It’s human nature. The way you present yourself, from your handbag to your hair, creates a thumbnail sketch of your character.
And that sketch is always subject to instant interpretation by your colleagues, potential bosses, and clients. So dressing for success is an important part of making success a reality for you.
Whether you own your own business, or you are the receptionist at a giant corporation, at work you ARE your brand. And your look IS your logo. You are telling people what you do simply by the way you look.
To learn more about how to dress for success download our free seminar on “How to Dress for Success on Any Budget.” Charleston Style Concierge is a personal styling company comitted to making women feel more confident through personal style. Contact us to determine what your clothing says about you.
The age old saying that you can’t get something for nothing just isn’t true when it comes to your wardrobe. In fact, you can get an entire new wardrobe for nothing just by shopping at your local consignment boutique.
This Spring I edited my closet and took my own advice about being ruthless with its contents. At the end of my closet edit, I was left with a stack of clothing that no longer worked for my style, lifestyle, or body. All of these were stylish pieces in great condition. I’m embarrassed to say that even a few of them still had tags on them. This can happen to anyone, but the important thing is to learn from your mistakes and move on. Placing each item back in your closet because you feel twangs of guilt about how much you paid isn’t going to help you figure out what to wear in the morning. My advice is to head straight to your local consignment boutique.
Take your pile of in season and in style (on hangers) clothing and consign them so you can get something you actually need and want to wear. You can even get fabulous new wardrobe pieces without handing over a dime. Most consignment boutiques will pay you a higher percentage for your clothing when you spend that money in their store, allowing you to spice up your wardrobe for free!
I took my edited pieces to one of my personal favorites, Butterfly, the sister boutique to Victoria’s Consignments. I haven’t missed a single piece I got rid of. With the money I made from the sale of my consigned items I got a few new items including a beautiful pair of Prada wedges that have been a versatile addition to my Spring wardrobe.
Some of the best deals are found in consignment boutiques. You can find amazing savings on high end designer pieces that are in perfect condition. The next time you edit your closet, consign what you don’t wear and discover that you really can get something for nothing.
A closet edit is the foundation to great style. Let Charleston Style Concierge help you jump start your style by editing your closet and help you to discover how to wear what you already have more. Visit www.charlestonstyleconcierge.com for more information or contact us at (843) 323.2466.
Personal Style..It’s Closer Than You Think
For this month’s style issue we sat down with Lee Heyward, style expert and owner of Charleston Style Concierge, to find out how to get great style.
Pink: As a personal stylist, what is the one fashion mistake you see people
make most often?
Lee: Wearing clothing that does not fit properly. No matter how “on-trend”
something is, if it doesn’t fit, it isn’t stylish. I think as women, we struggle to
accept our bodies as they are. The best advice I can give is to embrace the body you have and learn how to dress according to its shape.
Pink: Coco Chanel said that fashion is like architecture. Do you agree?
Lee: Yes, fashion is all about proportion and fit. What’s great is that
you can manipulate proportion and fit to create the most flattering look for
your body. For example, if you are pear shaped you can disguise your hips by wearing trousers that create a straight line from your hip to the ground. Your eye is then drawn to the narrowest part of you, your waist. Using tricks like that can completely make over your figure just by changing your pants.
Pink: You speak a lot about having easy and effortless style. Is that
really possible?
Lee: Absolutely. Easy and effortless style is best achieved by simply editing
your closet. Typically, we wear only 20% of the clothing we own. That means you stare at 80% of your clothing each morning never wanting to wear it. A closet edit teaches you how to create a versatile wardrobe that allows you to get dressed quickly and easily. You should be able to get dressed in ten minutes or less.
Pink: What advice would you give someone feeling the pressure of finding
the perfect outfit for a special event?
Lee: First, start in your closet. Remind yourself of the options you already
have. You may not have the perfect dress, but an inventory of what you own will keep you from buying duplicate accessories or shoes when you’re feeling pressed for time. Look for classic styles that can be worn again with a change of accessories. You can also enlist the help of a stylist. A stylist can help you find an outfit that will be versatile for multiple occasions and look great on your body type.
Pink: Do you mean hire a stylist to shop with you? Isn’t that mainly for
the rich and famous?
Lee: Using a stylist to help you shop is a great investment. A stylist will
help you select styles you may not have considered before. Plus, she will teach you to make multiple outfits with just a few pieces. For example, when I shop with a client, I bring along my digital camera to take pictures of the outfits we put together. This way when the client gets home and is on her own, she is
reminded of all the outfit options we put together.
Pink: Is personal shopping the only service available through Charleston
Style Concierge?
Lee: No, we can help through our Virtual Style Consultation. In addition,
each month I teach a teleseminar on a different style topic. These seminars give you great information over the phone from the comfort of your house.
To learn more about Lee Heyward please visit
www.charlestonstyleconcierge.com. Charleston Style Concierge is
a personal styling company committed to making women feel more
confident through the development of a unique personal style.
Read more from Pink’s fabulous June issue at http://www.itsallpink.com.
More often than not, each piece of your brand image was created when you needed it, but not altogether in a strategic fashion. Your image may look fine, but does fine help you grow?
Eventually as you scale, your image foundation cracks, and the way your business presents itself no longer helps propel growth – costing you time and money to fix.
When you unlock your brand power, you get to pick and choose how people perceive you and your brand.
Our Image Mastery System™ takes the 5 key brand components that you already have and ties them together in a way that amplifies your results and achieves your vision.
