Wardrobe Makeover

I was given a professional makeover years ago. I spent a whole day in an upscale salon having my hair, face, and nails done. Afterwards, I was given an outfit to change into. Once I was changed, the stylist put some jewelry on me, and gave me a purse. I was photographed, quoted, and featured in the Sunday Style section of the newspaper. But once that was over, I still had no idea what to buy, how to wear it, or how to dress. I had a flattering outfit, but it wasn’t really me. I wore the sweater for years, until I gained weight. However, I couldn’t walk in the shoes, the shirt itched, I felt uncomfortable in the pants, and the accessories simply weren’t practical. None of it was me, it was just a momentary image. I was still lost on what to buy and how to put it together. So, I still wore the same tired look that I knew. A self makeover is very different. It was done FOR me, BY me, not TO me! I took it slowly, step by step. The first and easiest step was cleaning out my wardrobe! I immediately donated any items that were obviously worn or stained, items I hadn’t worn in over a year, or I didn’t feel confident while wearing. This freed up space and gave me an idea of what I needed. Next, I made a rule that everything in my wardrobe had to flatter my figure and make me feel great to see myself in the mirror. That way, no matter what I took out of my closet to wear, I always looked good, no matter my mood. So, I tried each item on. What wasn’t flattering was donated. With some of these choices, I sometimes had to solicit the observations of my husband and daughters, especially if I was on the fence about something. This step freed up more space and gave me a good idea of what colors and styles worked on me. I was nearly ready to shop! During the first steps, I observed what women my age wore, as well as, what my teen daughters wore. I asked questions about their looks, where they got items, how it felt, how others wore it, and what other ways it could be worn. I began to notice those same looks or clothing articles on others, noticing how they put the look together. Of course, I found styles I loved and others that I didn't so much. Finally, it was time for some thrift shopping with my daughters! I asked their opinions on items before I bought them. Of course, they didn’t turn down the chance to go thrifting. They loaded up the cart, for themselves, as well. They were a great help in giving me ideas on how to wear items, what they would go with, and how to put an outfit together. I also did some retail shopping. I am never lucky enough to find everything I need in thrift stores, and there are some items I just won’t buy thrift. I used the same rule for trying on my clothes… if it wasn’t flattering and didn't make me feel good, to wear it, it was a No! Sometimes I’d pick out 15 to 20 items to try on, and end up coming home with maybe 4 items. But, those four items looked good on me and boosted my confidence. I’d mix and match them with items in my closet and come up with more looks. Just one piece can create so many different outfits, so finding four is a gold mine! With all the experimenting, I started to create my own sense of style… FINALLY! As my confidence grew, I was able to order a few retail items online to compliment my wardrobe (and to compliment my figure, of course). Now, I have a wardrobe for ME, by ME! I’m curious to know how others have updated their looks! Please, share!