A Professional Style Upgrade: What Does it Look Like?
1. Trusting The Process
Taking the first step in admitting you’re ready to improve your style is a terrific start.
Although, it can be challenging to delve deep into the specifics on style issues.
You’re probably carrying certain assumptions about what your wardrobe should look like.
These beliefs have been shaped by many different factors, like your unique personal experiences, the different stages you've been through in life, and the ever-changing trends you’ve experienced.
Now it’s time to let go and be receptive to the process.
Every time I begin working with a new client, their initial belief is that they’ll only need a little help.
I find that 99.9% of cases, they actually need ALOT more guidance than expected.
So, I encourage you to trust the process.
Allow yourself to take-in the advice without any premature judgment, and be ok with the fact that you may not be the best evaluator in this situation and consider the entire perspective.
During the process, you'll uncover new aspects of yourself and your personal style.
This is the time to learn, evolve, and redefine your image to truly resonate with who you are.
2. Sorting Through Your Wardrobe
It's time to assess your current wardrobe, decide on what no longer serves you, and consider what additions are needed to elevate your style.
What exactly is closet editing:
Pulling items out in a specific category., i.e., t-shits, collared shirts, sweatshirts etc…
Ensuring they are in wearable condition (free of irreversible stains, odors, holes )
Seeing if there are enough essential colors (black, grey, blue and white.)
Making sure the items fit your body appropriately (are they too big, tight, long or short? )
3. Determining Your Needs
An individual in banking compared to… let’s say, an entrepreneur will have different clothing needs. I always consider the industries of my clients their locations, and tailor the way I develop their style based on their unique circumstances.
If need be, we focus on getting new items that align with their daily lifestyle and invest in multiples of things we know they’ll wear frequently — making sure to remove any items that no longer serve a purpose in their wardrobe.
Maybe you find yourself reaching for a dress shirt, blazer or sports coat only a few times a year. If that's the case, just owning one of these pieces would be enough.
If your weekly wardrobe revolves around dress shirts, blazers, chinos, and dress shoes rather than t-shirts and jeans—we’ll need to inject more of these staples and exclude the others.
4. Filling in The Gaps
Now that we’ve successfully conducted a thorough closet edit and streamlined your wardrobe, it’s time to prioritize what you’ll actually need.
The next step is to identify any missing pieces necessary to round out your collection.
By strategically filling-in all the gaps, you’ll have a complete wardrobe that’s tailor-made for you.
5. Shopping For New Pieces
I wholeheartedly believe the philosophy of investing in quality shoes — specifically leather options, as well as high-quality outerwear.
This approach proves to be the most cost-effective over time, since higher quality pieces generally have a longer lifespan.
Though the distinction in quality between budget-friendly and high-end in most casual attire is minimal.
Remember, this isn’t a strict rule. If you normally prefer a certain brand with a higher price point, that’s totally fine.
6. Taking The Time, There’s No Rush
If you're feeling hesitant about a full-on wardrobe upgrade, consider taking small steps by slowly incorporating new items.
Pay attention to how you feel and how those around you respond as you delve into your new look, giving yourself some time to adjust and grow comfortable with the change.
7. Put Together Outfits
Complete head-to-toe outfits will then be curated based on all information that’s been gathered.
After the culmination of your new and improved wardrobe, you’ll feel much better navigating through social settings with your newfound confidence, style and pizzazz.
Brandi is a personal stylist with over 10 years of experience helping men feel confident in their clothing. She offers tailored style solutions to solve your fashion issues, ensuring you look and feel great for any occasion.