Proactive Versus Reactive Style Choices
Last month I wanted you to get comfortably uncomfortable with some aspect of your style. Growth occurs when there’s good stress, and confidence is the end game. When you continue to stay in the comfort of your safe zone, you can always expect status quo results.
February should build on growth you are developing from the January exercise. In my business, February is a time to come up with a plan of action for Spring. Spring fashion shows that occurred in September of 2022 have had time to resonate with me and I thought it would be helpful to present a few concepts to consider so you avoid becoming a reactionary consumer.
Many clients who decide to hire a stylist exert much needed willpower to avoid adding anything to their closets before their first appointment. Instead, they do their own “pre-game” drill with a healthy edit. It’s amazing what you are willing to part with once you know you’ve invited someone to take a look at what you own. Preparation for a styling appointment with a thoughtful edit of the obvious outliers is in and of itself proactive.
There are many first-time clients who prefer to let everything be seen at the first appointment because they haven’t developed their guidelines of measure. I’ll help them develop that during the first 30 minutes of the appointment. Using three words that best describe their goal style has been effective. If pieces don’t fall into those three words, the item must go.
Releasing things based on criteria you’ve established is proactive. Releasing things because you’re overwhelmed with what you have is reactive. Committing to new ideas means you must make space for those ideas to take hold. Otherwise, you remain confused because the crutches are living next to your future style. Eliminate the crutches so you can attain established goals. The growth could be uncomfortable at times but if you can make a practice of feeling the energy associated with taking risks, you won’t shy away from the good stress. Instead, you will lean into the excitement of what’s ahead.
How do you create a proactive wardrobe plan?
This is a great question and one which requires an individual case by case answer but I’m going to lay out some ideas based on safe generalizations. In my own practice I have clients who are at various stages in their style journey, but everyone can benefit from a plan.
1. Build on investments.
Assess what you have and choose 2 or 3 pieces that you want to be bridges to where you are going with your style.
2. Acknowledge the seasonal trends.
Choose one and personalize it to your style.
3. Use color as an accent.
Building a neutral wardrobe and making a commitment to one or two accent colors for the season is simple and effective.
4. Create architecture in your style.
This happens when you use tonal pairings or monochromatic with a variety of textures. Mix knitwear, suiting fabrics and shine such as leather or silk in a singular color.
One last thing to remember when you are putting seasonal plans together. Numbers don’t lie! Count the days you need to be actually dressed in a season. This number is probably more attainable than you imagine and will keep you thoughtfully proactive about what to add and what to eliminate.
