Is it time to try something new?

One of the things I hear often from women is something along the lines of, “I’d like to dress differently sometimes, but I wouldn’t know where to start.”

How we dress needs to change of course as life changes. As our bodies, routines, and confidence shift, our tastes change, too. What suited you ten years ago might not now, and that is perfectly normal.

Are you stuck in a rut?

After years of buying the same shapes, the same colours, and particularly the same types of clothes, it is very easy to get stuck in a rut. Often it happens without our even noticing. We like things that feel safe. Basic casual wear or lots of black, the same t-shirts and jeans, the same earrings, the same hairstyle – these becomes familiar, and familiar feels comfortable.

There is nothing wrong with having favourite pieces or dressing according to your taste, but sometimes we reach a point where getting dressed starts to feel a bit flat. We look in the wardrobe and everything feels predictable, even though there are plenty of clothes hanging there.

Being just a little bit bold

Trying something new does not have to mean suddenly dressing like a completely different person. In fact, that is usually the reason women feel uncomfortable when they experiment with style – the change feels too big and too unfamiliar.

A much easier approach is to make small changes. If you always wear dark colours, try introducing one softer or brighter colour near your face. It could simply be a scarf, a knit, or a lipstick shade. You don’t need to overhaul your wardrobe overnight.

If you usually wear loose shapes because they feel safe/cover areas that you feel awkward about, try adding a little structure somewhere instead. Maybe a jacket with shape through the shoulders or a top that skims rather than hides. Quite often women are surprised to find that a bit of shape actually looks more flattering.

Easy things to try

Another good place to start is with fabrics and textures. Many women stick to the same fabrics year after year because they are familiar. But changing texture can completely change the feel of an outfit without making it feel too over the top. A soft knit, linen shirt, a sneaker or moccasin (loafer), or a satin blouse can quietly freshen things up.

Shoes are another easy way to experiment. You might not feel ready for bold clothing, but a different style of shoe can shift an outfit’s look without feeling overwhelming. The same goes for jewellery – sometimes a slightly larger earring or a different necklace shape is enough to make you feel updated while still feeling like yourself.

It also helps to stop saving your ‘good’ clothes. A lot of women have lovely things hanging in the wardrobe that rarely get worn because they seem too nice, too noticeable, or too dressy. Meanwhile the same tired pieces keep getting pulled out. Wearing something a little nicer on an ordinary day can actually help you get used to dressing yourself differently.

What is the actual goal?

The goal is not to chase trends or dress like somebody else – I am never going to advise that; it is simply to avoid getting stuck with a version of yourself that no longer feels current or enjoyable.

Sometimes the smallest change can be enough to remind you that you are allowed to evolve a little. Give it a try – what have you got to lose?

And if you would like to do a wardrobe overhaul with me and get lots of easy advice at the same time, why not book me in?