Style That Stays. I went through a phase pre Covid where, whatever event I had in my diary, I wanted a new outfit for it.

Whether it was a holiday, something happening at the kid’s school or a red carpet situation, I would concoct a vision of how I wanted to look and feel based on some strategic research including location, temperature, dress code, audience and vibe.

Style That Stays

It’s actually the same process I use when I’m event dressing for clients. I want them to walk in feeling confident, completely themselves, and never worrying about whether they can wear the piece again—because I make sure they can.

Back then, I would scroll endlessly through Net-a-Porter, looking for items that hit the right note. I’ve always had a deep appreciation for all styles, which is essential as a  personal stylist, and I loved the challenge of adapting to different environments , like a chameleon. I’m not saying I didn’t ‘look’ like myself because it was always through the lenses of my taste just filtered through a specific mood.

But inevitably my wardrobe became a collection of different moods. That approach left me with a wardrobe full of very specific “moments” that didn’t mix well. Once the event was over, the clothes felt… hard to re-wear. They carried too much emotional weight, too much intention. Forced if you will.

My wardrobe became bifurcated.

Cut to Covid. The events stopped. And for the first time in ages, I had to face the wardrobe I’d built—without an audience, without a dress code. Just me vs my wardrobe.

That pause turned into a reset. With no distractions, I was able to get honest about what I wanted to wear—and what I wanted to wear on repeat. Clothes that felt emotionally right, had design integrity, and were wearable. No matter where I was going or what I was doing.

The result?

My wardrobe is much smaller… but so much more satisfying

And when events do come up, I use this simple trick to change the vibe of my items to lean into my heart without losing my head. 

To feel more

… bohemian I’ll wear an arm cuff
… sporty I’ll wear a low profile trainer
… modern I’ll opt for silver jewellery
… refined I’ll put on my gold choker

Accessories and shoes let you shift your mood without altering your core style. But here’s the key: this only works when your wardrobe foundations are in place. Just like with your home …you don’t buy the vase before you’ve got the sofa.

To get started with some ideas I have curated a selection here. 

What are your favourite ways to modify your looks?

Penny.

P.S. We work with our clients to build and curate wardrobes where the head and heart align. It’s never too late to refine and define your style. Ready to start? Let’s chat—call us here.

Photo credit: https://alhajastore.com/en/products/gold-pez-necklace