Are you in a style rut? Do you feel like you’ve never fully discovered your own personal style? Does fashion interest you on Instagram but you’re unsure how to apply it to your own life? Well, you’re in the right place.
Fashion blogs, magazines, advertisements, bloggers and influencers often lead the way with inspiration on what to wear but how practical is it?
I’ve read what feels like a million different articles on finding your personal style and they often encourage women to research and pin their inspos. That is a great idea by the way, but how helpful is it when you’re seriously stumped?
Today, we’re going to work together on debunking the myths of fashion in a few simple steps. We’re helping you find your personal style and progress gender equality by shopping Femeconomy approved brands!
Who are you?
Before we can even begin, we need to be realistic. What do you do everyday? For example, if you’re working in a corporate office, then you will be looking for structured blazers, pencil skirts and cigarette pants with black pumps. Whereas, if you’re an on-the-go mum, you’d be looking for jeans, tennis shoes, ballet flats and jersey tops for effortless style. Maybe you work in retail, so you’re in uniform all week and need to discover an off-duty style that expresses who you are.
Whatever your lifestyle, your wardrobe needs be a reflection of what you do daily. Could you imagine turning up to your child’s soccer game in a flamboyant, glitzy sequins top and figure hugging skirt! Talk about a fashion disaster.
Budget
Many of us don’t have a luxurious bank account that lets us blow countless amounts of cash in a single shopping spree. That’s why we need to be realistic about what we can afford and then prioritise the wardrobe essentials.
For example, maybe there’s room to splurge at David Jones, Carla Zampatti and David Lawrence. Or there could be some constraints, which means being clever at Kmart and Target so you don’t leave your bank account in a stressful state.
Start with a base
- A flattering Little Black Dress (LBD) will save you time and creative energy. If you’re rushed and have no idea what to wear to a meeting, dinner with friends or a night at the theatre, then you’ll pull out this staple.
- A trusty selection of tops. Cotton tees, crisp button down shirts, jersey favourites in an array of sleeve variations are the building blocks to a versatile wardrobe. They’ll go with everything. Try Country Road, Eileen Fisher or Witchery.
- A good pair of well-fitting, comfortable jeans will take you from day to night without any hassles and can be dressed up or dressed down. Femeconomy suggests Myer, Levi’s or R.M. Williams.
- A warm jacket. Your lifestyle will play a big part in which style you choose but a jacket that can be thrown over a LBD or a pair of jeans is a closet essential. Check out Decjuba, Feathers or Katies.
- An easy pair of black pumps with a modest heel. They’ll literally walk the distance! These leg lengtheners will suit the office, date night or any other occasion that demands a heel height. Why not have some fun at Bloomingdale’s or Macy’s? Or, for guaranteed comfort try Naturalizer.
- An accessory: Whether you prefer to adorn your lobes with some diamond studs, pearls or shoulder grazing earrings or like to opt for a minimalistic necklace that shows off your décolletage, wearing a jewellery piece will add your signature to any look. For something more colourful try Ruby Olive Jewellery, Tangs Design or Temples and Markets.
Get inspired
Like I was saying at the beginning of this piece, inspiration will play a big part in developing your personal style. Look at magazines, blogs and scroll through Pinterest and Instagram to see what’s hot and what piques your interest. Then talk to your friends about trends, different silhouettes and colours and ask them for their honest opinion.
Be brave
Fashion isn’t scary. It’s actually a lot of fun. Be fearless and brave and give fashion ago. The only way you can develop your personal style is by trying. You’ll quickly figure out what you like and what you’d much prefer never to explore. Also, listen to what people have to say. If you get a handful of compliments in a certain colour or cut, then you’ve certainly found something that suits you.
Still stumped?
If you simply don’t have the time or you’re still unsure where to start then I highly recommend booking a consultation with a fashion stylist, like Style Confidante. They’ll ensure the entire process is seamless and can do the hard work for you. Dependent on the service you choose, they can put a number of looks together so you don’t even need to think about it. Just wake up, get ready and go!
Stacey O’Keeffe is t
he Director at Fashion Weekly, a personal stylist and media influencer
Her goal is to inspire and empower women and men globally. When she’s not obsessing over the latest runway collections, scrolling through Instagram or styling photoshoots, you can find her dining out with friends and family or curled up at home sipping on red wine while watching Sex and the City reruns.
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Women make over 85% of purchase decisions. You’re Femeconomy. We want to help you shop brands with female leaders to create gender equality. The power is in your purse. Sign up to our monthly enews to stay informed.
