How to dress outside your comfort zone
Women who come to my pop ups often tell me they want to be more adventurous with their clothes but don’t feel confident enough. The truth is, fashion is supposed to be fun. It’s a chance to express ourselves and experiment with different looks and styles. It’s a shame if you’re missing out on this.
WHAT WOMEN SAY TO ME
I’m scared of bright colours.
It appears that the stumbling block is often colour. Some find breaking out from their black uniform daunting as they feel it will make them stand out too much.
I’m nervous about the reaction of others.
Is your sense of style being restricted by what you imagine other people think? A negative comment can be a sign that they’re just that teeny weeny bit envious that you’ve got an interesting and distinctive style. But you may be surprised at the compliments you receive and this can boost your confidence.
When you step outside of your comfort zone remember … most people won’t notice and if they do … well, who are they to judge?
I’d like to wear more interesting outfits, but I don’t have anywhere to wear them.
Take a step-by-step approach. Maybe your secret desire is sequins, but these can be viewed as ‘dressy’ or restricted to ‘festival wear’. How about pairing a little sequin cardigan with jeans or a pair of camo trousers? Very cool.
I like my clothes and footwear to be comfortable.
Me too! It didn’t use to be the way, but I am all for comfort these days. Even if my outfit is loud and proud it’s still comfortable to wear. With the wide range of funky trainers on the market, it is getting easier to find interesting footwear that’s comfy. I haven’t worn heels for years and during the winter live in boots. I have a pair of black and white zebra print faux fur boots which are very distinctive and certainly make a statement even when worn with a completely black outfit.
Am I too old to wear this?
My answer is always ‘no’. If you feel comfortable and confident in it, please dismiss any negative comments about women of a certain age dressing inappropriately. Your outfit … your choice.
Outfit 1: Plain trousers with leopard print jacket.
Outfit 2: Mix it up by swapping out with camo trousers and adding a leopard print scarf.
HOW TO AMP UP YOUR STYLE
Small changes can make a big impact so start by adding a bright accessory: bag, scarf or belt.
Create a mood board (see my blog about this) to inspire you and help you remember the direction you’re going in.
Less is more to begin with. Instead of jumping in with an outfit of many colours, choose one item like a jacket in a strong bold colour that you may not usually wear and team it with plain trousers and top.
Try a toned-down version of the look you aspire to. I love pattern on pattern but accept this can be challenging. Choose one patterned item to begin with and gradually add more layers over the weeks/months.
Ease into new and bolder clothes by wearing them around the house first, then out for a short while among people you don’t know. Finally, you will feel comfortable and confident wearing them in front of friends, family … and the rest of the world.
Boho dress with plain red faux fur. Floral kimono over boho dress. Add a bold patterned bag.
See how different patterns can work with the same dress.
The great thing about preloved clothing is that you can experiment with your style affordably. My Trash Chic collection aspires to allow women to have fun with their clothes. There’s lot of bright, colourful and quirky items that can add some va va voom to your wardrobe. Why not come along to one of my pop ups and play dress up.
