February 29, 2024

WHY COLOUR ANALYSIS IS A GOOD IDEA

Until you have experienced Colour Analysis for yourself, it is difficult to totally comprehend why Colour Analysis is a good idea.

Understanding your most flattering colours can be a life-changing experience and you may wonder why you didn't invest years ago.  That was certainly the way I felt.

For many years, there were clothing items I bought and subsequently regretted.  Those items hung in my wardrobe for ages, unworn.  There were also specific garments that attracted attention, that each time I wore those, I would receive a positive compliment.  That had to be worth investigating, right?

If you are sitting on the fence and wondering if Colour Analysis would work for you, it could be the shortcut to looking your absolute best.

Read on for my top tips about why Colour Analysis is a good idea.

Why Colour Analysis is a good idea

HOW IT WORKS

You will have noticed that there are certain colours that wash you out or make you look tired.  Conversely the colours that align with the unique colouring of your eyes. hair and skin tone, will be more harmonious with your natural colouring.

Colour Analysis is the wonderful tool to determine those colours that flatter you the most.  A range of colourful drapes against your face, helps to assess a variety of different colour characteristics.  The right colours that share your individual colouring will enhance your natural appearance, amplify your eye colour and smooth out your skin tone.

Take a peek at the service I offer in my York home-studio here.

SHAVE OFF THE YEARS

As we age, we look for ways to maximise our appearance.  We can never recover the youthful plumper skin of our teenage years but through colour, we can choose to adopt those colours that cause us to look vibrant and healthy.

Without a doubt wearing our most harmonious colours will reduce shadows on our face, diminish fine lines and wrinkles and create a more youthful effect.

SAVE YOU MONEY

Understanding which are your most flattering colours helps you choose your clothing in a more discerning way.  You will only buy what works for you and learning to leave those unflattering colours behind, will save you money.  The result is that you wear what you buy and look better in the process.

June 30, 2023

TIME TO GET MORE BODY POSITIVE

Where our bodies are concerned, many of us have experienced low self-esteem at some point in our lives.  The million reasons for this are all very individual and can originate from a variety of circumstances that all serve to impact upon our confidence.  Practicing any self-care regime is a good time to get more body positive.

As women, we are always happy to chat about the bits of our bodies we wish to change but rarely about our positive attributes!  Why is that I wonder?

Perhaps we recall something negative that someone said to us years ago or we compare ourselves to others.  When we are constantly bombarded with images via the media, it can be difficult to avoid.  Everyone is different so it is important that we are happy and healthy in the bodies we have now.

Whilst we can’t change the way we feel about our bodies overnight we can learn to look a little more kindly upon ourselves and over time learn to focus on your body positives.

Let me promote my 6 Top Tips that may alter your thinking as it's time to get more body positive.

Positive Affirmations

How about posting some positive affirmations on your bathroom mirror?

The key here is to learn to accept, be grateful and love what we do have.  Try recognising your personal worth and your achievements in the first instance. There are no rules, just a little bit of positive self-awareness.  To enjoy some self-love we must first have a positive appreciation of ourselves.   Do not think of it as an indulgence but as personal maintenance.  We service our cars, right?  Like charity, love begins at home.  Learn to love yourself and to feel comfortable with the body that you have.  How about posting some positive affirmations on your bathroom mirror?  Embrace what is different about you.  Said often enough, these affirmations can help you change a negative narrative.

Treat your body like your best friend

Think about your body as a valuable friend – think about the things that your amazing body allows you to do – your work, your travel, a walk in the countryside and perhaps the children you have birthed.

Focus on all the areas that you love and enjoy some positive self-talk (yes when no-one is listening if you prefer) and remember how kindly you speak to your friends.  Seeing these areas in a different light may just outweigh any negative feelings you may have.   It could be your finer ankles, your wrists or your eyes.  Learn how to enhance these areas through your clothes, your jewellery or your make-up   If you are struggling with this, ask for help.

Time to get Body Positive

The right size for you is the one that fits

Don't focus on the clothing size

Manufacturers produce clothing for the masses – to a standard size and proportion.  There is no such thing….we are all different shapes, sizes and proportions.   Why don’t we then take the emotion out of our clothing size.  Believe that the right size for you is the one that fits!  Forget the number and cut out the label if this helps.

 

Learn to accept a compliment

Time to get more more body positiveI love it that many women can be so generous with compliments …why not write down in a journal each compliment you receive, each accomplishment (no matter how small) or something you have done to help others.   Review your journal on a weekly or monthly basis (or when you feel like it) and see how much better you feel about yourself.

Find clothing that brings you joy

Identifying flattering colours that lift your complexion and amplify your eye colour is a great start!  Also learn what really suits your particular body shape....what looks best on a flat chest or which fabrics are best to diminish our curves.  Rather than feel deflated as we choose our clothes, knowing what works for us is incredibly empowering.  There is an energy and confidence in wearing clothes that help us feel good!

Get active

Head into the outdoors and soak it up!

Taking time out in the great outdoors is a great leveller.  I find that a great motivator for the day ahead is an energising walk.  If you are able, head into to Countryside, feel the wind in your face and soak it up.  Or if you are averse to any kind of exercise, there are some very clever dressing techniques that can help elongate, shorten or slim a body to enhance or disguise any number of body attributes.  I can help you re-discover your body through positive personal styling strategies.

 

So it’s time ladies to get more body positive and focus on YOUR ‘body positives’…it may be your eyes, your amazing neck, your shapely butt or your slim ankles.  If you zone in more regularly on the bits of your body you do LOVE, you will find that over time your will look a little more kindly at yourself.

If you have any questions about how best to dress your body do call me on 07494 644788 to have a no obligation chat or to book an appointment in my comfortable home studio in York.

I’d love to hear from you.

Jackie

*Main Image credit Model Rachel Peru by Miriam Gomez

January 30, 2023

CLOTHING CAN POSITIVELY INFLUENCE OUR WELL-BEING

With a real commitment to team ‘wellness’, I recently delivered a session to a Yorkshire-based business during which  I explored the way that clothing can positively influence our well-being.  The topic certainly resonated with my audience as I shared my insights on the way our clothes have the power to influence the way we feel.

The clothes we wear are an expression of our own unique and individual identity and have the power to support us, elevate us, enhance our personal brand, differentiate us and fill us with joy.   Every clothing decision we make therefore can support our mental-health.  The best thing is that we don't even need to wait for a special occasion to do so.

Fashion and the clothes we wear are a way to express ourselves.  Our clothes boost our creativity and offers others a glimpse of our personality.   That has to be good, right?

Imagine selecting your clothes from a wardrobe that is vibrant and joyful vs facing a dull selection of clothes that do nothing but make you sigh with frustration.   Now imagine how that would impact your day.

Our clothing choices can positively influence our well-being.   there, I've said it again.   If you have ever worn ill-fitting clothes, arrived to an event feeling over or underdressed you may remember having felt ill at ease, self-conscious causing you discomfort and unable to participate or engage.  Similarly, clothes that fit well and align with your sense of style will have the opposite effect and improve your levels of confidence.

Read on for my 5 Top insights about how clothing can positively influence our well-being.

Look good Feel good

We’ve all heard this expression but never underestimate it’s effect.  Making the effort (very true of so many aspects in our lives) gives us a purpose and who knows what might occur as a result!  Dressing up could mean the difference between lounging around and getting nothing done or accomplishing something.  Dressing for a day at the office for example mentally prepares us for business and in doing so you may find yourself feeling more confidence and better prepared to meet others.   The effect can contribute to all sort of other positives.

Dopamine Dressing

Essentially, Dopamine Dressing involves us dressing in clothes that bring us joy.  After the loss of control we experienced during the Pandemic years the clothes we chose to wear now can positively influence our well-being.

What brings us dressing joy will differ between us all.  It’s all about personal preference.  The key here is to identify certain aspects that make you feel good.  For me it is the drama of a ruffle or some kind of animal print.

You could always write a clothing journal that records which clothes make you feel most comfortable.  Of course I can also help with that during my Personal Styling experience.

clothing can influence our well-being

Colour is a visual phenomenon

Choose colour to influence our well-being

Colour is a visual phenomenon and a natural way to energise us.  Colour creates a whole host of emotional responses.  Consider it to be energy with massive therapeutic benefits.  Each colour is  associated with a different psychological connection.

For example, wearing red promotes feelings of power, action and of danger.  Blue for example the colour we associate with peace, trust and dependability and Green, the colour that fills us with new beginnings and relaxation.

Bright and colourful clothes are usually associated with energy, happiness and bright sunshine-ey days.  Regardless of the weather, reach for something cheerful.  Choosing a scarf is a good way to test the theory.

Wearing colours that flatter your own characteristics takes this to a whole new level having the power to elevate complexions and amplify eye colour in a natural way.   Take a peek at my Colour Analysis service here.

clothing can postively influence our well-being

selecting something out of our comfort zones can break the monotony

Step out of our comfort zones

Research shows that the majority of us wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time so adding a different accessory, or selecting something out of your comfort zone can also help to break the monotony and trigger a dopamine release.  Really get to know what you have in your wardrobe and pair some of your pieces differently.  Get creative and mix and match things differently to maximise what you have to express yourself in a different way.  It could even elevate your thinking process.

Clothing creates positive associations

Remember the last time you wore something that made you feel great? A figure hugging dress, a pair of killer heels (it will be different for all of us) and during the wearing of it, you received a compliment.  How good did that feel?  The confidence-boost to our own well-being and self-esteem is palpable.  We should seek to replicate that.

Perhaps seeing ourselves in a way that creates a positive emotion can override any negative thinking.

 

At the end of the day, our clothes should make us feel good.  That’s it!  Wear what brings us joy and boosts our mood.  Clothing doesn’t need to be an additional stressor.  There are plenty of those around.

Leave a comment, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Jackie Crawford

  • Cover image credit Olivia Brabbs
  • Other images Yorkshire based David Lindsley of Lindsley Weddings

can clothing influence our well-beingAbout the author

Jackie Crawford is a transformational image consultant dedicated to helping women of all life-stages dress with confidence and enhance their personal brand.

Born out of her own dressing frustrations during a corporate career, Jackie uses her own experiences to skilfully guide her clients through a process of positive change with their appearance.  The benefits can lead to life-changing situations.

To have a chat about how you could work with Jackie, you may reach her on 07494 644788 or email image@jackiecrawford.co.uk or visit her website at www.jackiecrawford.co.uk

 

December 23, 2022

5 TOP TIPS TO CHRISTMAS DAY DRESSING

I'm often asked what is the best thing to wear on Christmas Day....read on for my 5 Top Tips to Christmas Day Dressing.

There is no right or wrong, it all depends upon you Christmas looks like for you.

We all need something different from our clothes and actually, this is true whatever the occasion, whatever the season and however we wish to feel in our clothes.

5 Top Tips to Christmas Day Dressing

Presents in our PJ's

Will it be a simpler Christmas with our families where the idea of presents in our Pyjama's will appeal or maybe you are intending to enjoy cocktails in cashmere?  Or perhaps you prefer an altogether smarter affair when you will be pulling on some sparkles?

Whatever you choice, here are my favourite top 5 Christmas Day Dressing tips.

Decide now what you are going to wear...and plan

Is it clean?  Does your blouse need a button replaced?  Does it still fit?  How do you feel in it?  Remember you may be wearing it all day.

Nothing worse than pulling something from your wardrobe on Christmas Day when time is premium and it doesn't cut the mustard.

Shower and do your make-up

Make-up first thing...you may not get another chance

First thing (perhaps once you have attended to popping your Turkey in the oven), have a shower and fix your face.....time will disappear through your fingers and you may not get chance before your guests arrive.  I KNOW!   I've been there.

Only dress your bottom half

If you are the Christmas Chef, only dress your bottom half whilst you continue to prepare the 'messy' bits, then all you have to do is change your top.  Don't cook in anything new...you don't wish to risk a spillage on it's first outing.  Love this opulent velvet option from Sosander

Don't wear your heels too soon

Wearing heels?  Don't put them on too soon and certainly not whilst you are lifting the Turkey about...those birds are heavy.  You don't want to topple over.

Aren't they a smashing colour.  Remember a smarter velvet can become a wardrobe staple for occasions throughout the year.  These from Marks and Spencer.

 

 

Sequins are not just for Christmas

Nothing quite like the opluence of sequins at this festive time.  Don't just save them for Christmas, you can extend them into the New Year celebrations and of course in true sustainability style, throughout the year too.

Have you decided upon your Christmas Day outfit yet?

What a year 2022 has been so I bring it to a close wishing you a most wonderful Christmas with your loved ones.

Thank you for being part of my community and I wish you seasonal magic and sparkle.

Jackie Crawford

07494 644788

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 30, 2022

FESTIVELY FABULOUS – WHAT TO WEAR THIS CHRISTMAS

It's that time of the year when we want to feel festively fabulous so what to wear this Christmas?

After a couple of years of more sedate festivities (no I'm not going to mention the Pandemic) we can all rejoice as we approach the busiest time of year in our social calendars.

Christmas parties are already filling our diaries and whatever your preference for sparkly outfits or not, Christmas this year perhaps is all about relaxed glamour.  Although I have to say, sparkles are everywhere this year.

Whatever our individual traditions or your preference to dress up or down, I have some thoughts to share with you on feeling festively fabulous.

FESTIVELY FABULOUS

I love the feel appeal of velvet which looks great on for a luxurious party look – I particularly like wide leg trousers with a fitted and feminine top taking you effortlessly from Christmas drinks to Christmas Day.  Whatever you do, it is essential to incorporate some sparkle this season just don’t forget the opulent velvet and standout sequins.

I am an advocate of choosing outfits that offer real flexibility throughout the year so I opt for pieces that can mix and match with others.

Here are some of my dressing for the party season favourites:

Festively fabulous, what to wear for ChristmasThe SPARKLY TOP that you can wear at home with jeans or easily paired for an evening out with smart trousers or a skirt.

A wrap style is great for disguising a heavier bust and also for those wishing to hide a tummy, look for tops with ruching around the tummy area.  Finding a colourful top will also create an impact drawing the eye upwards.

 

Velvet Stiletto Heel Pointed Court Shoes Image Credit M&S Collection

Don’t forget the embellished shoes that you will see in a variety of stores this Winter.  Remember that they will not withstand much wet weather nor snow, if we are dreaming of a white Christmas! I love the glamour of these that can be worn with jeans, wide leg trousers or your favourite dress to elevate your look.

Silver Sequin Shirt Dress - Mint Velvet

Nothing says Christmas quite like SEQUINS and can be found on dresses and tops alike.  However these carry a post-christmas warning - if hand-washing is not an option for you, choose a finish that allows for machine washing.  It will spend more time in the wash basket than on your back and for all sorts of reasons, we want to avoid that.

 

 

 

A jumpsuit is a great alternative to a dress or separates.   They tend to be very flattering for most body shapes.  Depending upon the occasion, they are an easy item to dress up or down – flat pumps for a party at home and heels for a party elsewhere.

Festively Fabulous - Dressing for Christmas

Emerald Green Velvet Shirt Image Credit Sosander

Opulent Fabrics

I love the feel appeal of velvet which always looks great for a luxurious party look.  The great benefit of a single item such as blouse or shirt is that it can be dressed up or down throughout the year .

 

 

 

Whether you are looking for a single item, a full outfit or an accessory to enhance your look, I do hope that this selection has provided some inspiration for dressing for the party season.

Before you purchase, do consider what your wardrobe needs for the season.  If you already have a sparkly top, consider buying a pair of velvet trousers or leather skirt that will provide and entirely new look.  Choosing clothes you feel comfortable in means that you will be happy to wear them for longer.

If however you need some guidance as to the colours that best suit you or the styles that flatter your body shape, I would love to hear from you.

Wrap up warm and I wish you a very Merry Christmas with your loved ones and a party season of good cheer.

Stylishly Yours

Thank you

Jackie Crawford

07494 644788

October 26, 2022

DRESSING WELL ON A BUDGET

Looking your best does not need to place an additional burden on your finances.  Dressing well on a budget is possible.

We are facing challenging and uncertain times so how can we get more out of our clothes and still feel good?

Remember that confidence in our clothes allows us to step out of our comfort zones and whilst we may enjoy a fleeting sense of satisfaction from a designer label, when we know what fits and flatters, it becomes easier to make selections from more affordable brands.

Follow my Ten Top Tips to Dressing well on a budget and let's use the clothes in our wardrobe to work harder for us.

Dressing well on a budget

Look at ways to reinvent your clothes and style them up

Wear what you already have

Simple I know but taking stock of what you already have is the cheapest and most effective way of dressing well on a budget.

You are likely to find plenty of treasures that have found their way to the back of the wardrobe.  Look at ways to reinvent your clothes and style them up.  Pairing them differently by adding some different accessories or cinching the waist with a belt for example will change the look entirely.

Transitioning Summer clothes into Autumn and Winter is also a great strategy.  A knitted vest or jumper worn over a Summer Dress and replacing your sandals with boots is a great look.

There are so many possibilities to get creative and at the same time, purge your wardrobe of unwanted clothing.  Remember here that others can benefit from your unwanted clothing so the charity shops will welcome your donations.

Connect ourselves to clothing that makes us feel good

Identify what you love to wear

When we work out why we love a certain outfit or individual garment, we feel really comfortable in our clothes.  This means that whenever we wear that particular item, we feel good.  There’s nothing like connecting ourselves to clothing that boosts our confidence.  It's not necessarily about wearing all the hot new trends either.   For me its a ruffle or a particularly flattering colour.

 

Clothes that no longer fit?

Clothes that fit us properly can look more expensive.  Find yourself a local seamstress that can nip in waist, enhance the shape, add a unique embellishment or lengthen a pair of trousers or cuff a much-loved jacket.

A favourite dress designer I recently met during York Fashion Week, creates wonderful garments from our unwanted clothes.  Take a look for some unique inspiration at Ketchup Clothes on what can be achieved to extend the life of our garments.

Arrange a clothes swap

Wearing an item of clothing that no longer flatters us or indeed is past its best does not fill us with confidence.  It may however be a perfect fit for a friend!  Get a group together one evening and share your clothes as a fun social event where you may find many new pieces without spending a penny.  It’s also a sustainable way of elongating the life of our clothing.

There's nothing like a confidence boost from the clothes we wear

Change up your accessories

Hands up who wears the same jewellery day after day on repeat?  I get it, it’s easier without having to rummage through our jewellery.  However…you may come across a lovely family heirloom that brings happy memories flooding back.  Has to be worth a peek and can elevate the look of a jumper or may beautifully enhance the neckline of a blouse.

Our clothing engenders positive associations so can re-connect us to happy times – the date night necklace (we may save for special occasions) or the special earrings we inherited from a much-loved Grandmother. There’s nothing like a confidence-boost from the clothes we wear.

Before you buy, do you have 3 existing pieces to pair it with?

Watch out for seasonal sales

Buying your clothes in a sale will always help your money go further but remember it’s only a bargain if you wear it! Make sure that the fit is good, the item is well-constructed and the care-instructions work for you. No point buying a linen shirt if it remains at the bottom of the ironing pile or a silk shirt that requires hand-washing!

Buy the item because it flatters your bodyshape, you love it and have at least three items in your wardrobe that it will easily pair with.

Focus on what you need

A reminder to shop for what we need

I recommend keeping a list of what you need and assign a budget to it.  A new pair of boots, a new trench for Autumn, a jumper may perhaps be more pressing than a swimming costume to see you into Winter.

When we focus on what we need we are able to make better and more considered economical clothing decisions.

Then when the time is right and you have an opportunity to purchase, you have become more mindful of your choices. Making more conscious clothing decisions, you may find your cost per wear will improve.

Shop pre-loved

Rather than buy new, visit a dress agency or charity shop which are always worth investigating.  You may find garments with their price tag still attached.  Get to know your local shops and if you are able, visit regularly to take advantage of new arrivals.

Look out for some key pieces and perhaps the higher ticket items that offer year-round flexibility. You will find some great pieces ready to be loved all over again and offer a great solution to dressing well on a budget.

A personal favourite of mine is York Designer Dress Agency.  Next time you find yourself in York, go and say Hi to Sarah.

Footwear Focus

There was a time when we only wore our Trainers to the gym!  The ‘posh trainer’ trend developed into a ‘thing’ a couple of years ago and how much simpler it has made our outfit creation.

The humble ‘trainer’ has become the comfortable footwear of choice for a floaty-frock, a blazer and trouser combo, a pair of wide-leg pants or how about pairing with a jumpsuit.
With such a flexible choice for your footwear, wear on repeat but make sure they are clean and well cared-for.

Reduce your monthly visits to the nail bar

Make savings to build a shopping fund

What about cutting back on daily expenses such as one less coffee?

If you make a regular trip to the nail bar, reduce your monthly visits and make painting your own nails a special occasion.  Saving the money to spend on an item of clothing that will work harder for you season after season, can really help.

 

Hopefully you have found this article on dressing well on a budget helpful?  Do feel free to share with your friends and of course if I can help you please do get in touch here.

Jackie Crawford
Image Consultant

07494 644788

October 2022

August 31, 2022

WHY WE SHOULD EMBRACE GREY HAIR

Our dress codes are more relaxed than ever before and we are able, through our clothes, to express ourselves in the most wonderful way…and yet, I am shocked, no saddened that still in 2022 , women who positively embrace their grey hair, are being marginalised.

That’s what happened just last week to renowned Canadian journalist, Lisa LaFlamme.  Dismissed because she allowed her hair to turn grey.  Really!  Unbelievable that her hair colour has become more important than the accolades her well-respected career has afforded her!

Silver hair seems to provide men with an air of authority and maturity yet for women it appears to be attributed to our advancing years.  Nothing is further from the truth.

It is true that whilst we are seeing a greater diversity of women represented, we do need to see higher levels of representation in a more consistent fashion.

Rachel Peru
* Image Credit Olivia Brabbs

Why we should embrace grey hair

We don’t think anything of choosing the latest fashion trends or selecting a brighter jumper to lift our mood.  I see the choices we make for our hair in the same way - as part of our individual identity.  It's about feeling comfortable in our own skin.   Like a perfectly styled outfit, whatever our colour choice, a beautiful head of hair makes us unique.

Although let’s consider that post-lockdown we are actually enjoying the freedom and liberation of trying something different?  Choosing our natural hair colour is like dressing to our own beat, surely.

It is high time to address the negative stereotype associated with the colour of our hair and kick sexism and ageism back into the past.

Grey hair does not define our age

The arrival of grey hair may not purely be a reflection of our age.  I have friends who turned grey or indeed chose to dye their hair grey, before reaching their 30’s.  However not all women reach for a bottle of hair dye to cover up their grey.  For many it is an affirming and conscious decision.

We should not feel limited by the outdated stereotypes that suggests having grey hair means we are old.

According to Vogue in March of 2022, Grey Hair was a hit with the Street-Style set in the fashion capitals of the World.

Image credit Rachel Peru

Grey hair can look incredibly stylish

You only have to look toward Dame Helen Mirren or fashion icon Iris Apfel to see how incredibly fabulous grey hair can look.  Shown here, Rachel Peru also looking amazing with her sleek cut.

Perhaps it is women like these who encourage us to feel more comfortable to let go of our traditional stereotypes so we can enjoy the process of allowing our hair to grey.

 

Annie Stirk & Rachel Peru Image Credit Olivia Brabbs

Silver and Sassy

Feeling strongly that grey-haired women were under-represented within the fashion and media industry, two Yorkshire Models, Annie Stirk and Rachel Peru co-founded and created Silver and Sassy, an uplifting fashion event in Yorkshire that celebrates grey, silver and white haired models.

Initially forming part of York Fashion Week, their 2019 ticketed event was quickly sold-out and it's audience praised the empowering show as transformational in building self-esteem and confidence.

Of the event, Annie states that "the effects on our models has been transformational".  How I love this and how we need regular reminders that grey hair and those who wear it,  are relevant.

Whatever our hair colour, all hair requires care and maintenance

With a shorter crop, I am a regular monthly visitor to the hair salon and on a quarterly basis do still enjoy my highlights.  I know very well the time we spend at the hair salon and indeed the financial outlay to maintain a coloured head of hair.  Regardless of our hair colour, we still require a regime to keep it well cut and conditioned.

 

Given that more of us will be choosing to work into our 70’s, those that continue to demonstrate outdated age and gender stereotyping, need to get used to it.  Only by ‘calling-out’ these prejudices will things change in this arena.

As an advocate of positive ageing I believe that we are beautiful at every life-stage. We should be able to express ourselves without fear of prejudice and have the courage to embrace who we are!

For those of us wishing to embrace grey hair, we should not let others influence our personal choices.  Grey hair is not a passing trend, it is here to stay in all of its natural crowning glory!

Jackie Crawford

29th August 2022

*Main image credit Annie Stirk by Olivia Brabbs

March 30, 2022

HAS LOCKDOWN AFFECTED OUR DRESSING CONFIDENCE?

I wonder how our experience over these past two years has affected how we feel about the way we dress.  Has lockdown affected our dressing confidence?   Without a doubt.

We adapted to a half-life and adopted a more casual wardrobe to feel safe and comfortable.  Perhaps we have lost our identity and forgotten how to dress and show up?

I am convinced that being locked away on a diet of leisurewear and above the waist dressing has impacted upon our confidence.  We overlooked the very comfort we can enjoy by dressing for self-expression, the joy of dressing up and the way that makes us feel.

Has lockdown affected our dressing confidence?

Being intentional when you dress

With that in mind, I wonder how intentional you were when you were planning your wardrobe this morning?  How much thought you gave to the clothes in your wardrobe?  How did you select those clothes?

The clothes we wear are an expression of our unique and individual identities.  Our clothes have the power to elevate us, support us, differentiate us, enhance our personal brand and fill us with joy. The good news?  We can choose how we want to look and how we want to show up.

Believe it or believe it not, our wardrobes and the clothes within hold the secrets to looking good, feeling great and showing up in the most positive way we can.  Be more deliberate in your choices and ask yourself how you wish to present yourself to the world that day.  Connecting ourselves to those feelings through our clothes really can help raise our confidence.

To me dressing in leisurewear promotes a more relaxed feeling, that akin to a day off, snuggling on the sofa to read a good book or watch a film.  We associate certain clothes with differing scenarios.  Similarly a suit transports us to formal work environment perhaps or a wedding.

How can clothes elevate how we feel?

Remember how the garment made you feel

So how can dressing differently or swapping those casual clothes for smarter attire, elevate the way we feel?  Elevate our confidence.  Let’s just think about that.

Remember the outfit that each time you wear it, you feel fabulous…on top of the world, on top of your game.  It could be a dress, killer heels or a blouse with bold pattern….our clothing is powerful.

Remember how that garment made you feel? When you wore the dress, the killer heels?  Empowered, happy, fired up, powerful or capable?

These are all real feelings that we can enjoy and experience from our clothing.

There's always the outfit that generated a compliment

Maybe as an extension of this you received a compliment.  What about the flattering comments you received when you wore that dress or your killer heels?

There is incredible elation from this kind of reaction.

We feel fabulous and seek opportunities to replicate that surely?   So our clothing engenders positive associations – the date night blouse when we met our partner, the interview suit that landed our dream job, the beautifully cut trousers we treated ourselves to when we went self-employed.

Did our leisurewear ever provide us with this kind of reaction?  Fired up and ready to take on the world?  I’m imagining not.

Do you need an extra level of Confidence?

Lingerie can provide an extra level of confidence

Consider our day to day activities and how we are often required to influence, educate, challenge, encourage or to inspire?  Do you agree that sometimes you will find these tasks more challenging when you need to be the expert?

Through my own experiences, I have learned that confidence in our clothing eases those occasions when we need to flex our muscles.  For me, my choice of lingerie always helped to empower me and provide an extra level of confidence.

 

 

When you dress this morning, ask yourself how you would like to feel in your clothes, how you would like to present yourself and connect your clothes to those feelings.  I’d love to hear your thoughts or if you need help to unlock your own dressing confidence code, do get in touch.

Jackie Crawford

Image Consultant

07494 644788

Feature image credit Lindsley Weddings

January 31, 2022

BACK TO THE OFFICE FOR WORK? DRESSING MADE SIMPLE

Back to the office for work?  Dressing made simple

Over the last couple of years, our working environments were switched to our kitchen tables, home offices or our spare rooms as we settled into working from home. The lines of home and work were blurred and inevitably a more relaxed and casual dressing style followed.

However as many of us prepare to go back to the office for work, it’s going to mean a shift in our dressing style!  Our morning dressing routines are going to look a lot different.  For some this may be causing a little dressing anxiety as we transition from loungewear to more office-appropriate pieces.

Are you excited at the prospect of dressing up again in your smarter clothing or are you feeling a little reluctant to part company with your leisurewear?

You may need to invest a little time to reap the rewards, but trust me, it will be worth it.

But first…create your own Style Mantra

The fact is that clothes are incredibly empowering so the key to successful dressing is that we feel good in our clothes and particularly at work.  Having style confidence provides us with the power to feel comfortable, to feel authentic. Confidence in our presentation can open doors and new opportunities. Firstly we need to identify clothes that help us feel confident.

Implementing a style mantra really helps when choosing clothing from our wardrobes or when selecting new clothing.  By choosing three words that describe the feeling we want to have in our clothes allows us to apply these words to each garment we choose.  For example, feminine, edgy or professional.  We can then assess if our mantra aligns with the clothes hanging in our wardrobe.  Of course I am able to help you develop this during a Personal Styling session.

Let me inspire you to dress with confidence for your return back to the office for work.  Read on for some top tips.

Assess your wardrobe

Take some time to try everything on that you have in your wardrobe.  Does it still fit?  Does if flatter?  It matters!

Ask yourself how it makes you feel.  Our wardrobes should be a place of joy and should inspire us as we leave our homes each morning.  Wouldn’t we rather make clothing choices that have a positive impact?  I assure you that the way our clothes make us feel, influences our day ahead.

New Pairings

This editing process will shed some light on these those items that don’t look or feel good but may also highlight some new pairings and create some entirely ‘new’ looks.  Shopping our wardrobes (particularly in January) is also worthwhile and reminds us of the hidden treasures at the back of our wardrobes…and maybe with the tags still intact!

Lay your clothes out the night before

Lay your clothes out the night before

This is a great strategy and saves valuable time in the morning.  This helps us identify the stain from a garment’s last wearing or the missing button that needs replacing.  We  have time to take action when we spot it early!  Dare I say, that it’s even better of you can plan for the entire week.

Knowing what may need laundering, which shoes may need a polish, will all save dressing anguish in front of our wardrobe in the morning.  Trust me it’s a game-changer.

Work out our wardrobe neutrals

What about  wardrobe Neutrals?

We all need a neutral base in our wardrobe that make creating oufits a little simpler.  I’m talking about navy, grey, brown, beige, camel tones, white, cream and black.  In choosing our base colours carefully we will find that introducing complimentary colours to your basic outfits is simplified.

Work out our wardrobe staples

Image Credit Pexels

Image credit Pexels

Our choices will differ wildly dependent upon our own personality but also our industry or place of work.   Therefore spending money wisely on our outerwear is a good investment.  For example, a good quality leather item will look better for longer when cared for so your footwear, handbags and laptop bags are important.

Consider a great fitting blazer, a couple of blouses, a white shirt, tailored trousers and a smart pair a well-fitting jeans will all serve us well.

What if we have gained weight?

I hear this often particularly since the uncertainty of these last couple of years… we have been opting for the comfort of an elasticated waistband and lost sight of how our more tailored pieces might fit.

What can we do?

A blouse that gapes at the bust and no longer fastens can be used as a loose ‘shacket’ style layer with a smarter tee under

A shirt dress that no longer fastens can be worn open with a pair of trousers and fine knit under

The trend for more fluid trouser styles will be with us for some time so perhaps seek out a pair in a colour that can be worn with your existing wardrobe.

If you are pondering your own office return  and you are back to the office for work, take a peek at my suggestions here.

How would you feel if  your  'back to the office' dressing choices were a little simpler?  I would love to work with you personally, do get in touch if I can help.

Jackie Crawford

07494 644788

June 30, 2021

DRESSING FOR SUMMER

There are still many of us coming to terms with a post-pandemic dressing routine but perhaps dressing for Summer may give you the incentive to get back on track? Having spent more than a year in clothes that made us feel comfortable, many of my clients have become stuck in a styling rut.

Now that we can return to our local high street once again, Summer could be the butt-kick we need to add some new pieces to our wardrobe.  Pieces that work for you that you can reach for year after year.

It’s not about the latest trends but about the key elements you need to consider.   Needless to say that anything with tight waistbands should be avoided!

We all realise that future Summer’s are likely to become a whole lot hotter!   Since successful Summer dressing is all about staying cool, how do we maintain a stylish look?  Read on for some guidance on Dressing for Summer over the coming weeks.

Natural Fabrics

First up, choose natural fibres that breathe more easily such as cotton, linen (watch out for the creasing mind), silk, chambray (a plain weave fabric) or a loose Jersey.

If you do happen to sweat, natural fabrics will dry faster.

It’s worth noting that Synthetic fabrics such as polyester or rayon may cause you to sweat more.  Clothes that stick to our bodies is not a good look!

For those of you able to make your own clothes, check out Sewsocialising (an independent fabric shop and sewing studio in York) who have a great range of Summer fabrics and also offer a mail-order service too!

Choose some paler shades

We associate lighter colours with a Summer vibe so choosing some pastels and paler shades will reflect the light and keep you cooler.    It’s a great way to switch around the darker clothes in the wardrobe.

Layering is key

Think about using layers to add interest or to regulate your temperature particularly if  you are out and about.  Take a large but fine scarf with you to wrap over your shoulders.  This will protect you from the sun but also acts as a further layer if the temperature cools.  Alternatively an oversize shirt is also a good option to slip over a simple tee.

In a working environment, having a light jacket close at hand is always useful.

Loose and Floaty

Clothing with a looser silhouette is a good staple for your Summer wardrobe as it allows air to flow easily around your body.  Anything too fitted could make you feel a little sticky in the heat.

If you prefer a little shape, you could always cinch the waist using a softer style belt or a scarf for a belt.

Add a splash of Colour above your waist

If you are still working from home and Zoom remains your mode of communication, choose more interesting basics in your tops that have interest built in rather than a single plain colour.  You can keep that for your bottoms.

Back in the office?  Add a splash of colour anyway!

Anyone for a jumpsuit?

An alternative cooler option to your usual top and bottoms.  There are some great styles this season so choose wisely for your body shape…

Straight leg styles work for a straighter body shape

Wide Leg styles work for those with a curvy body shape

If you are short, opt for a full length trouser rather than the cropped styles that visually reduce your height.  I cover this and more within my pampering and informative Personal Styling consultation. 

Add a hoodie to a simple Summer dress

Dresses are cooler

Wearing dresses is a great strategy as there is nothing complicated to combine and then if you need to add a layer (heading onto a zoom or meeting a client) you can slip on a Kimono, fine knit vest top or depending upon the style, a hoodie – see image.

Think also about a shirt dress that will still feel loose but flattering and with the vertical button detailing, will make you look taller!  There’s a ‘win’ right there!

The longer style hemlines don’t work for all proportions so remember not to end the hemline on the widest point of your leg.

Wardrobe Basics

If we also consider transitional dressing, we can add a longer sleeve tee underneath our Summerwear such as a dress  or blouse for Spring and potentially Autumn wear.

Remaining professional when the temperatures rise

Anyone thinking this is a little trickier during the Summer months?

My advice is to opt for a simple work-appropriate dress and keep a light jacket, cardigan or finer wrap ready for the office environment.  Keep your colour palette on the lighter end of the spectrum.

Choosing a wider leg trouser style is also a great option which can be paired with heels, a flatter pump or smarter trainer.

A short sleeve silk or cotton blouse can look equally stylish with a skirt of your choosing.  The look can be brightened up with footwear and minimal jewellery.

Still need to wear a jacket?  Opt for an unlined jacket which reduces one extra later.

Dressing for Summer

Photo credit: Birkenstock Arizona Vegan Birko-Flor in Light Rose

Footloose and fancy free

Keeping your feet cool and comfortable is essential in the warmer weather.  Opt for a stylish pair of open toe slides, wedges or some Birkenstocks which are available in a wonderful array of colours.  Choosing a neutral tone ensures they offer more outfit flexibility.

Keep your make-up light and natural

Instead of a heavier foundation choose instead a tinted moisturiser that tends not to crease when the temperatures rise.  Change up a darker lip colour for a paler shade or a tinted lip gloss or balm.

Replace your black eye liner or mascara with a softer shade – brown is a great alternative for all skin tones.

Dressing for Summer

Tie a scarf around your handbag for a stylish twist

And to top it off…

A hat will keep the sun off your face and neck but having a small scarf with you to tie your hair up is a helpful addition for your bag – try tying onto your bag for an extra stylish twist?

Drink plenty of water

It’s important that you keep your fluid intake up especially during the hotter months.  Try drinking from a nicer glass or keeping a water bottle on your desk to top you up.

 

Take a look here for some current styling ideas.

Enjoyed this article?  I’d be happy if you were to comment below or share with your friends.

If however, you would like to arrange a discovery call and receive one to one guidance, I’d love to hear from you.

Wishing you a cool and stylish Summer.

Jackie Crawford

07494 644788

Colours . Clothes. Confidence

COLOURS • CLOTHES • CONFIDENCE

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