What My Personal Stylist Taught Me: Stop Hiding

This Spring, Summer and Fall,  I had the pleasure of working with one of the sweetest, warmest and  nicest clients.  When I met “Amy,” she had just moved back to the states from living abroad with her family — mainly in Europe. She was unsure how to translate some pieces she had purchased in Europe to a more American style. She had resorted to black leggings and other activewear, often feeling underdressed for events. During our interview, I remember her saying, “I am not even sure what to wear to what events anymore. I just end up feeling like I am hiding in my clothing..” I put that in big bold caps in my notes.

You couldn’t tell from her daily wardrobe, but Amy liked edgier pieces….and she also had an artistic flair. Her closet had a few pieces with a Helmut Lang feel. We are talking that sharp-cut, kind of androgynous, industrial look. She just wasn’t sure how to make that look work for her daily life as wife and  mom of two school-age children.  It had to be comfortable and easy.  I got to work.

I created looks that brought out that side of her — her true style. It was also important to also make it accessible/comfortable for her everyday life. I wanted to make sure the pieces we added to her closet were going to have mileage. AND, I wanted to show off that fantastic shape of hers! She had been hiding it in black leggings, and oversize t-shirts and hoodies for way too long.

When I asked her to tell me what her most memorable style lesson was, she answered without hesitation: ” Don’t hide in your clothes. Don’t be afraid to wear garments that fit properly. I feel transformed.”