SHUT THE RUT UP
“I never would’ve picked that, I love it!”, is my favorite thing to hear from clients when they try on something new I’ve pulled for them.
While having a style “uniform” can be an important tool to create ease in your daily wardrobe, it can also lead you into a wardrobe rut. Exploring a fresh idea can bring back the excitement of getting dressed and allows you to discover something new about yourself. It opens up POSSIBILITY. It’s not just about wearing something different, it becomes about what you are capable of…What if you are that girl? What if you can do that thing?
The fashion industry banks on customers wanting a constant flow of original ideas, but if you find yourself currently bored with your clothes it doesn’t mean you have to completely reinvent yourself and buy a whole new wardrobe. Here are five ways to break out of your wardrobe rut and into new possibilities.
This hilarious meme is all over the internet. I don’t know who created it, but if you know please message me so I can credit them!
1. Try a New Color
Confession, until recently I have never owned a classic white shirt. White makes me nervous because it can be delicate and unforgiving, but this spring I found the one-- a crisp, white shirt with a statement sleeve. I get compliments anytime I wear it and it makes me feel like a classy lady, who knew?!
When it comes to color I’ve found that there are really three types of people; those who wear a variety of color and pattern, the neutral babes who prefer a palette of understated neutrals, and people who wear almost exclusively all black. There’s no need to wear head-to-toe red, injecting a new color into your wardrobe can be a simple as popping a colored shoe or handbag. Experimenting with a color outside of your comfort zone can bring unexpected and thrilling results. Yes, you CAN wear pink!
Here she is, my first white shirt by Brochu Walker! Also available in black and navy (don’t think I’m not thinking about it…) Click the photo to get your own!
2. Style Swaps
Most of us know which pieces make us feel “safe”. If your uniform is comprised of skinny jeans and a tee, maybe it’s time to try a polished, wide-leg trouser. Or if you love a structured blazer, explore a softer, more relaxed style or boyfriend cardigan. You don’t have to stretch your choice so far that you don’t recognize yourself, just swap the silhouette or fabrication of an item you already love. The key is to keep a balance of proportions; keep the pieces in proportion to each other and in proportion to your body. (Check out my previous article “Style Swaps” for more ideas.)
3. Accessorize
If you’re running out the door everyday without paying attention to the details you are missing out. You can wear clothes, but you can’t have a “look” without accessories. They are the punctuation in a sentence, the seasoning on a delicious dish! If you don’t wear jewelry, start with a simple piece, maybe a pair of hoop earrings or a delicate necklace. If you typically wear delicate, layered pieces then go big and bold with a statement necklace or earrings. Conversely, If you are the big earring queen maybe try scaling back to soften your look. Don’t forget you can always play with scarves, hats, rings, bangles, and brooches too. Remember, this is the fun part!
Accessories icon and my fashion spirit guide, Iris Apfel watches over me at my desk. If you need a dose of style inspiration be sure to watch the 2015 doc, Iris. Brilliant!
4. Level Up
If experimenting with a trend or color is too far outside your comfort zone, then choose an item you wear on repeat and upgrade the quality. Investing in a piece that is a better version of what you typically wear will feel like a luxury. You’ll be excited and even more confident to reach for it. Elevate your favorite piece and feel the difference, literally and figuratively!
5. Be Intentional
How many times have you seen someone across the room or scroll across your screen and thought, “That’s so cute, but I could never wear that.” The truth is, you can buy the most fabulous pieces or I can style the most exciting looks, but it is up to you to take the risk and TRY IT. They’re just clothes! Without taking the risk, you’ll never know what’s really possible, and that my friend, is everything.