I’ve said it so many times to my clients, but styling is truly so much more about how clothes make you feel than what you look like. It’s not about a label or a trend, but the body wearing the clothes. Styling therefore is so much more about how you feel, and not what you look like. And that’s why I love fashion so much–your clothes affect your mental health. And that’s beautiful.
I’ve said it so many times to my clients, but styling is truly so much more about how clothes make you feel than what you look like.
You’ve heard me say many times before that getting dressed everyday is so important. It sets the tone for your day while also establishing a mood for the persona that you want to take on. Are you needing to be confident and poised? Maybe you’re wearing something comfortable but strong like a turtle neck and boots. Need to feel creative and inspired? Throw on your long printed cardigan with a printed pant and go wild in the mix and match.
How do you want to feel?
It’s totally up to you. Do you want to feel comfortable? Powerful? Sexy? Sophisticated? Classy? Allison Bornstein’s three word method (of which we are stans here at With Mads of course, see video below for more info) highlights the third word as the one that you want to feel. My words are 70s, oversized, and cool–this describing how I typically want to feel when I get dressed. I care less about what other people think of me, and more about feeling interesting and unique; while still feeling comfortable. Effortless but also intension. There’s a tension at times between those desires, but that’s part of what makes getting dressed fun: it’s like cooking, you have to balance the sweet with the salty.
Here are a couple of ideas for how to put together an outfit based on how you want to feel!
Cool
- Outfit Suggestion: Pair a vintage band tee with a structured oversized blazer, high-waisted straight-leg jeans, and chunky leather loafers. Add a crossbody bag and aviator sunglasses to tie it all together.
- Optional Accessories: Layered gold chains, a slouchy beanie, and a sleek watch for a touch of effortless cool.
Sexy
- Outfit Suggestion: A slip dress with a thigh slit, paired with strappy heels and a cropped leather jacket. Add a bold red lip and wear your hair sleek and styled.
- Optional Accessories: Dainty gold necklaces, hoop earrings, and a small clutch for a sultry yet refined vibe.
Classy
- Outfit Suggestion: A tailored camel coat worn over a white button-down shirt tucked into wide-leg trousers. Pair with pointed-toe pumps and a structured handbag.
- Optional Accessories: Pearl earrings, a silk scarf tied around your neck or handbag, and a classic wristwatch.
Comfortable
- Outfit Suggestion: An oversized sweater paired with knit joggers and shearling-lined slip-ons. Throw on a puffer jacket for extra coziness.
- Optional Accessories: A chunky knit scarf, a beanie, and minimalist hoop earrings.
Powerful
- Outfit Suggestion: A double-breasted blazer with tailored trousers, a sleek turtleneck, and ankle boots. Add a bold belt to cinch the waist.
- Optional Accessories: A structured tote, statement earrings, and a swipe of red lipstick.
Creative
- Outfit Suggestion: A patterned midi skirt with a contrasting graphic sweater, paired with colorful ankle boots and a belt bag. Mix bold textures like leather and velvet to amplify the look.
- Optional Accessories: A fun hair accessory like a printed headband, oversized earrings, and quirky glasses frames.
Sophisticated
- Outfit Suggestion: A wrap dress with pointed-toe flats or low heels, a tailored trench coat, and a leather tote. Keep the palette neutral with subtle pops of color.
- Optional Accessories: A gold bracelet, understated earrings, and a leather belt for a polished finish.
Each of these outfits offers a specific vibe, but feel free to experiment and add your own unique touch to make them truly yours! Remember, what matters most is how you feel in an outfit. Only you can decide if how you look matches what you feel inside.
