The art of dressing quickly and easily relies on a simple system. Time is precious in a morning and it can feel stressful to create unique outfits every day. Fashion can be fun but often we don’t have the luxury of experimenting with looks before we start a busy working day. It’s therefore helpful to have a structured guide based on your personal style. Usually we all want to choose an outfit that is comfortable to wear, is manageable to put together and will give you the right amount of confidence for the day ahead. This doesn’t mean we all have to dress the same. That’s the beauty of defining your signature style. It is unique to you.
identify your shape
Start with key pieces
Choose flattering colours
Your personal image will be dictated by your height and body shape. For everyone there is an ideal proportion that is pleasing to the eye and can be achieved by clever dressing. We all look better when we’re divided into thirds; one third top and two-thirds bottom. This provides a framework and defines the shape and length of the clothing we need to wear. There will be key pieces that form the basis of your wardrobe; the cut of the trouser and the shape of the jacket, the neckline of a shirt and the length of a skirt. Seasonal items are then added to give interest and creativity. It’s important to accept that not everyone can wear every fashion trend successfully. Style is achieved by identifying the looks that work and avoiding the ones that will not be flattering. Thankfully there are many trends to follow these days so you can always feel chic and contemporary.
The colours we wear can enhance or drain our appearance. It’s helpful to learn the shades that work best for you and use this as a guide. Colours change with the seasons and from year to year. It’s exciting to embrace the new tones of the fashion calendar but you need to be mindful of the affect they will have on your appearance. It may be better for you to wear the new shades on your bottom half or to wear them in silkier fabrics that will lighten your face.
We want to draw the eye to our best features when we dress. For some of us that means adding dramatic accessories and wearing vibrant pattern. For others simplicity is best and wearing the right shape clothing is enough. The way we dress is an expression of our personality. It’s the first impression and we want it to be a positive and memorable one. Everyone has the ability to look stylish. It’s just a matter of knowing how to achieve it in the simplest way possible.
Let me help you define your style. Email me at Fiona@fionahodgesdesign.co.uk