How can I dress to be more confident during the week and on the weekend?
I have been working in a warehouse for 3 years, and have to wear jeans, sneakers and a polo to work every day. It is very unflattering and I have lost touch with how to style myself to feel confident. I have an hourglass figure (size 8-10, Petite L). How can I dress to be more confident during the week and on the weekend? What types of garments should I be searching for in the store? Kaye P. is updating her look in Buffalo NY.
Sometimes we need to reinvent our selves and our style. I am excited that this is your time and you are ready to show the world who you really are, a CONFIDENT WOMAN.
I understand the rut a uniform can subtly create, but sometimes a uniform that is purely for the function does not have to be a bad thing, for one it saves money and time and it does not have to look basic and can still look put together. Think, of the French, Parisians dress in neutral colors for functionality and still manage to look chic. As for your weekend style, give yourself permission to embrace new ideas and be playful when it comes to fashion. Getting dressed is supposed to be fun. Below I will provide you with some basic rules and tips to elevate your look and start building up confidence both at work and on the weekends.
xX, Kenny Hazelwood, Stylist
WEEKDAY STYLE
FIT: Look for slim fit body-conscious silhouettes that flatter your hourglass figure. Polo shirts with stretch fabric will contour to your body shape. Pair it with mid-waist boot cut or wide leg style denim. Become friends with a tailor and alter garments to fit your petite frame. Wearing clothes that fit correctly will have you looking and feeling more put together and in turn more confident.
QUALITY: Invest in quality fabrics, they look better and feel nice against the skin, keep their shape and last longer. Better fabrics do not have to cost more if you know what to look for. Choose polo shirts that have a blend of cotton and elastane stretch, it will feel good on and the stretch will keep its shape and show off your shape. Buy a medium weight denim for durability with 1% lycra, to perfectly fit your body shape.
ACCESSORIZE: Make accessories part of your signature weekday style. A rose gold watch or bracelet on your wrist is a nice reminder of your good taste. Small stud earrings or a charm necklace speaks to your classiness. A leather belt that matches your shoes pulls your look together. Mix and match accessories and wear your favorites consistently.
WEEKEND STYLE
LOYALTY: Its time to look to the past so we can shape your future style. First, start looking at photos of yourself when you did like what you were wearing. Go through your closet and find your favorite pieces. List what they have in common, is it certain shapes and cuts, colors and prints, or brands? These observations will point you in the direction of what styles you already like, shapes that look good on your frame and where to find it.
TRY IT: Always take one "it's cute but so not me" thing into the fitting room. You never know! It's those pieces that add dimension to your wardrobe. Trendy fashion is designed for every body type, size, and age. They are not expected to be worn more than one or two seasons, so a big investment or a long-term commitment is not necessary, just an open mind. Get a true feel for the total look by wearing good under garments. And while you're at it, bring heels, lipstick, and a hairbrush. These will reassure you that you can pull off the trend.
Up-Grade: Classic staples are needed to complete your wardrobe but push them further with an upgraded version. You should already have your go-to tailored jacket. But a wardrobe of less formal layering pieces will help you look pulled together even on casual days. Opt for a leather jacket with trousers, a jean jacket over a silk shirt. Upgrade your classic white button up to a silk white blouse and style the top with a leather knee leather skirt.