Shoes on SALE

 I have some cute shoes all on sale to share with you and a few other goodies if you read on!

                                                          

The super popular Joan of Arctic boots (bottom left) are on sale at UO and this is the lowest price I've seen this year so...

if this Winter made you realize you need new boots, check these out! 

The Joan of Arctic boots are great for family outings; I saw them at Penn State football tailgating, Fall field trips with my kids, and I saw them on lots of rush hour city walkers this Winter.    

I would style the boots like Jacie Duprie on the right.  She's wearing the Ugg Adirondack.  This is an adorable Mom look for Winter.  Pair your sale boots with your favorite distressed skinnies (Crew factory has this great pair), a Rails plaid top (once you try Rails, you may never buy a cheap plaid top again), I linked the exact one I have and I use it in 3 seasons for going on 3 years now! 

Go on the hunt for a sale option if that's better for you, but you must give it a try!  Think about buying one second-hand on Poshmark or eBay.  Top it with this budget-friendly gray sweatshirt and of course, the ever-popular J Crew coat.   

This Kristen Blake Walking Coat on the left is a bit less expensive.

This one on the right is from Boden and it's classic/versatile and, just like the others, will be in your wardrobe for years to come!

And no ladies, Boden is not too old for us.  They have great pieces!  Just look at Erin, who we all know and love, from Living In Yellow.  The pretty yellow coat is cheery, fun, and on sale.  

Here's the link: Yellow Boden coat in yellow and a few other colors too!  FYI- reviews say it's not as bright a yellow as they were hoping.  

You will have any of these coats for many years so if you can make the investment, do it.   The hat on the right is Janessa Leone` which is not cheap, you can also look here. 

So excited that lace-up boots are back.  If you're under 5'6, I prefer all black on the bottom; no need to break up the leg line if you're petite.  But go for it if you don't mind!  Black skinnies, black sweater, outfit complete!  

Adorable rain boots on the left. Add a denim jacket (this one on sale), a trendy tee, with white jeans (these are on sale) and you're all set.  

Here's a catalog with links to all of these shoes, plus a few ankle booties!  More shoe sales here!  I think we all know how to style ankle boots by now but, just in case, here’s a look below and you can email me anytime for personalized recommendations.  

Are you a Mom in transition, style-wise?  Read my article from yesterday about getting your style groove back!  

Reach out here if you need personalized recommendations!  XO, Jaime

Discloure: some links are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.  This is a small amount that helps support my time spent on the hunt for stylish pieces, these are NOT items sent to me for free.  I have created these posts on my own to share with you.

Moms: Rediscover Your Style

You can do it.  You can recapture a sense of style!

Moms, I have something to say to us all.  Staying stylish as a busy Mom is NOT that hard to do. Eek!!  Mad at me for saying that?  I know.  But keeping a sense of style isn’t hard, per se…  it’s just that losing your style (losing your whole self, really) is sooo darn easy!   

Mothers since the beginning of time have placed themselves second, third, last, and we don’t even think twice about doing it.  We have a million other things to do before we can even begin to focus on ourselves.  

Moms are freaking rock stars…

in the beginning of Motherhood, we're just trying to keep helpless little humans alive while cleaning their butts and running on very little sleep and very little sanity.  They grow a bit and we become the snot rag, the boo-boo healer, miracle worker… all the while still wiping butts.  

Here are my guys, of course in fun matching sports outfits.  I am behind the camera, likely  wearing days-old sweats.  That's just the way it is for most Moms in the beginning.   

This is the oldest photo I could find for this "Mommy post" that I wasn't too embarrassed to have on the internet.  The boys are 3 and 4!  What the heck?  Why did it take so long to get in a picture?

They grow a little more and we become taxi drivers, the cook, the therapist, maybe we become a semi-decent spouse again but we’re still the housekeeper, the coach, the sideline cheerleader, we work, and so much more.  And if all goes as planned we’re probably not wiping butts anymore.  

But for such a long stretch of time, it’s easy to lose yourself.  You're focused on their happiness, not yours!

It’s easy to put your personal style on the back burner.  

Heck, we don’t even think twice to put hair washing on the back burner!  So forget a sense of style, the easiest thing to grab is the yoga pants (that I didn’t actually use for yoga) or the comfy over-sized sweats.  They were my favorite, to me they were like the giant hug I needed in order to make it through the day (second only to the other giant metaphorical hug we need to start the day, COFFEE).

At some point in early Motherhood, lots of us adopt a Mom uniform.  Or at least I did! The uniform consisted of the same old sweats on rotation and the 2 pairs of yoga pants I would reserve for playing in our front yard in case the neighbors were out.  Those pants were the go-to pairs for stroller walks throughout the neighborhood because that’s when real people might see me.  Semi-clean black lounge pants were the best I could do.  My dirty hair screamed “crazy lady” enough, old oversized sweats would have made it worse!

But we’re so hard on ourselves, I guess.  I love what Leena says over here about yoga pants and the Mom uniform stereotypes,

"it isn’t because we aren’t stylish. It’s because we’re exhausted! We’re so busy dressing everyone else that by the time we reach ourselves, we’ve given up on making an effort."

Amen!  I think I lost my sense of style the most in my boys’ toddler/preschool ages (those photos above that I am not in).  Those were the days when they went to preschool only 3 times a week.  Every. single. time I would wrestle my 2-year-old into clean clothes so he could attend the 3-hour preschool program I NEEDED them to go to so I could maintain some semblance of sanity!!  It was a crazy phase he had for about 8 months.  There was full-on wrestling while he was screaming and I was sweating.  Just to get the kid to wear some fresh clean clothes!  

So you bet I didn’t give a sh*%t what I was wearing when I got my 3-day-a-week, 3-hour break! And you Moms know how fast that “break” goes, right?  After a long battle or two, you finally get the kids into their car seats and complete the drop-off.  After a quick trip to the grocery store, put groceries away, throw in a load of laundry, clean up from breakfast, it’s time to go out and get them again.

So I didn't care at all how I looked.  I cared the most about creating moments like this.  God, I was proud of myself for making this moment!   Edited to add: I pulled them over to the computer to share this photo and they're making gagging sounds and going "blechk"!  Boys...  

I didn't really make the time for self-care.  At least once a month for a couple years there, my husband would say, “Do you think you’ll change out of those sweats at all this week?” Or, “Isn’t it day 4 for that sweatshirt?”  And one time, “Jaim, um, your hair smells”.   Sidenote: I’ll know that he actually reads my blog when he calls and says, “Hi, I read that article about the 4-day-old sweats.  That wasn’t just years ago, you know I still stay that right?”  Busted.
 

And then there are Moms who did all of this morning wrestling with a toddler while simultaneously getting themselves ready to be present at their outside jobs!  In real grown-up pants!! Can’t even imagine.   

But eventually, low and behold, the kids grow and you have a few more minutes to yourself and you might begin to think about your own self and your needs.  By now we all know the whole “put your oxygen mask on first” thing, right?  

Allow yourself some focus on your style.  It will make you feel good!

If you do come up for air and notice that your personal style took a backseat to everything else in life, you are not alone. Every single week a Mom reaches out to me to get her style groove back.  We all do it! 

And look, that makes sense for a period of time.  It really does.  But there will come a moment where you can breathe a little and shift some of the focus back on yourself.  That's where I come in to help.  

Is this you today?  Do you have a few minutes of sanity and you’re noticing that your style took a back seat for a few years?

Who else better to ask for help than me?  A trained listener, a Mom in transition myself, and a trained Personal Stylist.  And if somehow you need permission to care about fashion and personal style, I give it to you!  You are allowed to buy a new pair of jeans or a pretty “going-out” top without feeling guilty.  ~Insert oxygen mask analogy again~

But where do I start? 

If you feel a little lost and unstylish since you’ve become a Mom, you are not alone.  I know personal style can feel a bit elusive when there are more important things going on in your world….  but the good news is, you can put forth just a little effort to get back on the right track.    Make one little purchase.   How about a great dress or a flattering jumpsuit?  

Probably my first, and favorite, self-focused purchase was a versatile jumpsuit.  I was a SAHM at the time with absolutely no events on the calendar and no date nights in sight.  I really had nowhere to wear any real clothes.  But I came across a People Style magazine ad and a coupon for “officially the most flattering jumpsuit ever” so I gave it a chance.  It worked out great.  I have had it for 4 years now and I still use it!  

I first wore it first to a friend’s baby shower 4 years ago.  I’ve used it for date nights since and even a friend’s casual house party for the launch of her business.  I just used it a few months ago for my dear friend’s 40th birthday, again just last week for networking, and that jumpsuit is not going away anytime soon!  

Using it with layers here. booties

Out with the girls.

How many pieces have been in your closet for that long that you actually use, over and over?

If the answer is zero, I can help you.  I can teach you how to buy for longevity and versatility.  Unfortunately, the exact one from years ago that I'm referring to is old and sold out.  But you should keep this brand in mind as they're always adding new pieces.  It's Veronica M and this link takes you right to their jumpsuits page.

I recommend a jumpsuit as one of your first purchases when you’re fighting the Mom style rut because they can easily be dressed up or dressed down.  Even the almighty LBD (as much as I LOVE one) isn’t my favorite staple piece because I’m not always in the mood for a dress with legs all exposed. 

How to choose a jumpsuit.  

You should focus on some key features:

• Make sure it’s a knit (aka stretchy to accommodate changing bodies)

• Machine-washable because someone is going to wipe something on it eventually- could be baby snot, could be Mommy’s cocktail, who knows?

• I recommend black or navy since those colors usually make us feel our slimmest

• V-neck, a universally flattering neckline

• A faux wrap-style or surplice top (very flattering without the wrap/tie annoyances) for a few reasons like breastfeeding access; creates a deep v to flatter most body types, accentuates the natural waist, and with the v-neck you can vary between a flirty/flaunt of the breast area or you can pull it closed more or add a cami for a more modest look

• And maybe find a style with pockets which offers a comfy vibe!

This Vince Camuto is an excellent option, I have it in the blue but it comes in black as well. And you can wear a regular bra with this one! It's another option that stands the test of time. I bought it a few years ago and I still use it. You can try this if you're not ready to go for one with spaghetti-straps.

What do you think?  Ready to buy for yourself yet?  

What to do about style if your littles are still really little?  I remember the snot-wiping days Moms, I really do.  I remember the exhaustion all too well.  And if it’s too much to think about right now, I get it.  Bookmark this page and come back later.  I’m not going anywhere!  

I remember the days when the only accomplishment you could make all day was to keep the little 2-foot maniacs alive!  Trust me, mine are 9 months apart and I remember but it will get better…  now my kids are finally both school-age and I am just beginning to come into my new sense of style and re-focus on my own next steps in life.  Just some food for thought…

Don’t wait for an occasion to buy a great piece.  

Especially if you are a stay-at-home Mom.  I used to say it all the time when I was home, “where the heck am I going in this?”  Or “I never leave the house, I can’t buy this”.  And then you know what happens?  An event appears on the calendar and before you know it you’re left saying, “I have nothing to wear!  Help, Jaime!  I can’t find anything in the mall!”  Believe me, I have the weekly SOS texts to prove it.  

Tell me, has your style changed since you became a Mom?  In what way?  Maybe your style hasn’t changed at all, good for you!  Either way, tell me in the comments below.  What phase of Mommyhood are you in?  What can I help you with regarding personal style?  I’d love to hear your thoughts and answer your questions.  

"Looks alright? Thanks, babe."

Xo, Jaime

Disclosure: some links are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This is a small amount that helps support my time spent on the hunt for stylish pieces, these are NOT items sent to me for free. I have created these posts on my own to share with you.

Spring Style Special

More details on the Spring Style Special: 

This $97 package is the perfect mini-service if you want a little taste of what it's like to hire a Stylist.  The special is a paired down version of my huge closet edit and personal style development and it's a GREAT deal!  You'll get:

• a 30-minute phone consult
• a 1-hour closet edit with me
• tips for Spring and Summer styling and a personalized catalog where you can shop all of my suggestions with the click of a link!  

When we chat on the phone, we'll discuss your current lifestyle, personal style goals, current clothing needs, and more.  In your 1-hour closet edit, we'll take a look at your favorite pieces and talk about the clothing that's working well for you. 

According to your specific wardrobe needs and goals, we'll decide what's missing in your closet for the coming seasons.  We'll create a personalized list of what you need and I'll go on the hunt FOR YOU.  I'll also give you a little insight into the coming trends and together we'll decide what styles YOU want to try.  

Within a week of us meeting, you will receive a personalized digital catalog from me.  There will be shoppable links to items I recommend for your wardrobe.  They will reflect your personal style desires, your goals, and they'll be within the budget you specify. 

And you won't be left alone with no idea how to style those new pieces.  In your digital lookbook, I will give you style ideas.     

Ready to book?  Send an email below referencing the Spring Special.  I can't wait to chat!  XO, Jaime

Philadelphia Eagles Win The Super Bowl!!!

YES!  I can't repeat it enough.  The Eagles won the Super Bowl!! 

No this is not a sports blog and I am not a sports writer.  But if you looked at my Eagles posts over the last two weeks, you'll see I just wanted to mark this moment in history.  I wrote today's post to wrap it all up before I turn back to posts about Personal Styling. 

Photo, Philadelphia Eagles

They won!  The Philadelphia Eagles Won! 

Beside the fact that Philadelphia sports fan have been longing for this moment FOR DECADES, this Super Bowl victory came at such a great time of year.  We're sick of Winter, we're sick of the weird political climate and you know all the cliche lines: a climate where America has never been more divided, the anthem controversies,  people are hostile, "the Patriots cheat", and Eagles fans throw snowballs (yes you said it and yes it makes you a lazy thinker).   

But this was all so easily forgotten on Super Bowl Sunday when the Eagles won!!  What a good time to set off a wave of man hugs across the country from the game day field itself, to bars, to living rooms, and backyards.   God knows we all need a few days of celebrating with loved ones and strangers alike.

I can't tear myself away from all the living room videos of grown adults jumping up and down for joy.  I love hearing the cries that are so similar to my own living room celebration that night,

"Oh my God, oh my God, the Eagles just won the Super Bowl, oh my Goooooddddd." 

Brian and I (just like millions all over the area) stood and paced and screamed for almost the whole game.  The anxiety was at an all-time high!  We all joked as my brother-in-law made his all too familiar sounds of being on the verge of vomiting. 

We were gathered with our children and loved ones hugging, laughing, and jumping until the very last play of the game. 

Video cred: SIL Becky 

We, like so many others, were fist bumping to all the people in heaven who we miss in this moment.  I ran out onto my porch and screamed, I squeezed my children as they jumped into my arms, and even my sister-in-law went old school and ran outside with some pots and pans.  

Just so I never forget, I'll post two of my favorite clips that show the pure joy happening in and around this area...

and we haven't even made it to parade day yet!!     

"There's no place like Philadelphia. There are no fans like Eagles fans. History was made last night, and we captured a slice of it." From Reel9Productions.

and I really, REALLY love this one....  Philly loves a good line dance moment!  

And note Jennifer's line, "For all the haters that say Philadelphia fans are the 'worst'.  This one's for you.  Share it up Philly."

Woohoo!!!!  We'll never forget this week!!  Thank you to the Philadelphia Eagles!!

XO, Jaime

Packing or Prepping For The Super Bowl in Style; EAGLES STYLE!

In Philadelphia and surrounding areas, fans are riding high because our beloved team is 

going to the Super Bowl!! 

It's the Eagles first time back to the Super Bowl since 2005 when they faced the Patriots who they'll play again this year.  #rematch!  The spirit of this underdog team is in the air EVERYWHERE and the camaraderie around the hopes of beating that damn dynasty team from New England feels fantastic.   This clip of Eagles Brandon Graham is one of my favorites. 

#FlyEaglesFly (BG Remix) pic.twitter.com/aBnTskUnUN

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) January 23, 2018

Boy, I could go on and on about the underdog theme they've adopted, about Carson Wentz going down back in December (MVP favorite at the time), about other team member losses before that, and about the backup quarterback, Nick Foles, defying expectations since then.  But the Eagles keep battling back. 

Another clip that, to me, says it all.  

Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now! 

Woah, Nelly!#FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/Hwc3768E7O

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) January 22, 2018

The feeling about this Super Bowl is soooo much different than the 2005 Super Bowl trip, there's a spirit about the whole thing that can not be denied.   This beauty is from a couple weeks back.  Philly loves a good line dance! 

“If you don’t believe it yet, man, go home.”#FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/9Nn6rmesxA

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) January 14, 2018

Sadly, I'm not a sports writer so I'll stop the football talk there.  But I just wanted my blog to reflect a piece of history that I'll always be able to come back and see.  Hopefully, I'll look back at this moment as the starting point of our own dynasty.   

Time to start your own trophy collection, Eagles!

So I'll mark this piece of history with a little STYLE talk.  Are you lucky enough to make this trip to freezing Minnesota?  Here are some ideas for the frigid temps outside and some looks for inside the climate-controlled stadium.  Over the next few days, I'll add some Super Bowl looks for those of us partying here in PA! 

GO BIRDS!  

leggings (majorly high-end), much more affordable here, even less here

sweatshirt, jersey, coat, sneakers, hat sold out but I use one similar to this a lot, and this Super Bowl-specific hat is cute. 

And a laid-back vibe for a house party.

tee shirt, jeans (premium brand on markdown), hat, jacket (similar)

Hunters (cheapest I've ever seen them),  hat, tee shirt, scarf,  (this jacket is pretty distressed so it's best for the fun/edgy types or the younger crowd), jeans

What are your Super Bowl plans?  Please do tell!  And you can contact me anytime for 1:1 personal styling tips.  

E-A-G-L-E-S,   EAGLES!!! 

Xo, Jaime

1/25 update  An adorable little Rebecca Minkoff sweater that can be used in all seasons (makes it worth the splurge).  

Rebecca Minkoff sweater , Jeffrey Campbell boots, gold huaraches, white hat, aviators

1/29   And here are some super cute pieces for us casual ladies.    Note: this cute varsity stripes top has more color options and is sure to sell out!  

Pants (selling fast!), hat, sneakers, vest, shirt (also selling fast)

Adorable Plus Pieces

Tee on left, jeans in both pics, hat on left, shoes on right (note: has Oregon on bottom), tee on right, hat on right

Go Birds!  

2/1 Update:  Time is up to shop anything (online) in time for the Super Bowl but you can still grab what you love now, it may be gone after the big day!  

Hat (selling out everywhere, link shows one very similar, get it before it's gone) Shirt,  Sneakers

Xo, Jaime

Disclosure: some links are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.  This is a small amount that helps support my time spent on the hunt for stylish pieces, these are NOT items sent to me for free.  I have created these posts on my own to share with you.

How To Style Red Shoes * Add a Pop Of Color to Any Outfit!

So I've been contemplating stepping a bit outside my comfort zone and I realize I do not own one stitch of red in my wardrobe, maybe except for an old Philadelphia Phillies tee shirt.  Some cute flats caught my eye at Nordstrom Rack so I thought I'd give them a try. 

They are comfy, stylish, and versatile... the perfect accent to any casual look.  And a flat in red feels much more doable than adding a red pump or red dress.  When you're stepping outside your comfort zone, try it in small doses and make sure the rest of your outfit is still you so you don't feel like you're playing dress up. 

To the right, the red shoes plus the leather moto jacket is a little much for me (my personal style is usually one eye-catching element at a time) so I paired the red shoes with my go-to, everyday jeans and a simple striped tee which is very much in my comfort zone.    Now I'm trying something new but I still feel like myself and true to my personal style. 

Below the outfit was a no-brainer; easy girlfriend jeans, black sweater, tan cardigan, red shoes for the win.

Flats here

Jacket,  Flats , Shirt

A few more cute options for you.  

Chinese Laundry from Zappos, GAP, Sole Society

Looking to step up your personal style a bit?  I recommend you introduce a new color in small doses like shoes.  Want to try red?  A simple red shoe adds a little pop of color to any outfit and you'll instantly appear more stylish.  If you're new to styling red, try these tips: 

• pair it with neutral pieces
• make sure the red piece is classic and not overly trendy
• if you want another pattern in the ensemble, try small-scale stripes, gingham, or plaid
• if you're ready to be more adventurous, add a leopard sweater or jacket

cardigan 

Would you like to elevate your personal style but you're not sure wear to start?  Here's how hiring a personal stylist could help.  Near or far, I can work with you virtually or in your home.  

Xo, Jaime

Disclosure: some links are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.  This is a small amount that helps support my time spent on the hunt for stylish pieces, these are NOT items sent to me for free.  I have created these posts on my own to share with you.

Why Hire A Personal Stylist?

Why Hire A Personal Stylist?

I can hear some of you now.  “Me?  Hire a Personal Stylist?  Stylists are for celebrities, right?”   I get it.  It sounds too fancy for you.  I am “just” a Mom, who am I to hire a stylist?  I’m just a busy, working, “average” woman and hiring a stylist is for famous people.   

Not true anymore.  No matter who you are, no matter your stage of life, no matter where you’re working… in the home, out of the home for someone else, launching your own business;

You have goals in life; places you see yourself going.

   

Even if it’s just surviving into tomorrow!  We all know that putting on a great outfit can boost our mood and our energy.  We know that a great-fitting pair of jeans helps us feel good on date night.  We’ve all been told to dress to impress when we’re going to a job interview, reentering the workforce after years at home (heck, I’ve been there) or aiming for a promotion.

A Personal Stylist will work with you to determine your body shape, your image desires, and your personal style…  even if you don’t really have one.   

I understand that discussions about clothing can feel superficial, that focusing on your image can feel shallow, even selfish for some.  But the truth of the matter is this:

people will form an opinion about you within seconds of your encounter with them.

I know this sentiment is not ideal but it IS reality and I can help.  A Personal Stylist can make this all so much easier to manage by teaching you about the shapes and cuts that will flatter your body.    

A personal stylist is trained to help you find the clothes that look best on you and will help you coordinate outfits for different occasions.  When we think we look good, we feel good. It’s as simple as that and you know you’ve heard this all before so please know that  

feeling your very best isn’t a luxury reserved for fashion bloggers and the rich and famous.

Just as you let a hair stylist cut your hair and just like a personal trainer would develop a workout routine, I will help you build a wardrobe that makes getting dressed easier.  I will help you find clothing that reflects your personal style and lifestyle.  Perhaps putting a good outfit together doesn’t come naturally to you.  That’s where a stylist comes in.  I started this business because I really enjoy showing people how to “put it all together”.  I am good at translating fashion inspiration and current trends into a REAL woman’s closet.  I am good at putting your style thoughts and desires into words and into your closet.   

If you’re intimidated because you think a Personal Stylist is going to cost a lot, not only can I break down my services into stages for you…  you’ll save money in the long wrong if you’re taught to purchase pieces you know you love and fit well.   You’ll save time and money when you STOP buying pieces that are good enough just so you can get out of the store….and even worse if you never end up pulling them out of the closet.

If you’re intimidated by the presence of a personal stylist… you should know that my approach is as warm and friendly as it is honest.  I truly enjoy helping other women feel great about themselves, simple as that.  It does not serve you or me to be judgmental about your current looks.  

This is not What Not To Wear and I will not strong arm you into getting rid of pieces that you can’t let go of.  

But I will balance that with truthful assessments on what’s working in your closet and what isn’t.  You should read more about my philosophy on personal style here.

You deserve to let a trained eye translate the current fashion trends (as well as the tried and true classics) into your closet.  Let me tell you one thing I have heard over and over again with clients     

________________

“I never would have tried

that on if you didn’t recommend it.

And now I love it!”

________________

Getting dressed is easier, starting the day is easier... when your closet is filled with clothes that have been specifically chosen for you, your shape, and your lifestyle.  And I am ready to help. 

  

My services might be right for you if:

You have a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear.

You are currently using only 20% of the clothes in your closet.

You have some cute pieces and NO IDEA how to put them together.

You’d like to make the most of what you already own.

You need help identifying your personal style.

You’d like to understand your body type and how to buy clothes that flatter.

You’re facing a life transition; reentering the workforce, promotion, career change, just graduated.  

I hope to hear from you soon.  XO, Jaime

What Is Personal Style?

shop my storefront here

Hello and welcome to my very first blog post!  I am Jaime, happily married to my college sweetheart and Mom to two awesome boys who are 9 months apart.  Maybe someday I’ll explain how that works!  

I have entire notebooks filled with ideas for potential blogs posts, especially the scary first post.  I agonized for way too long about what to write this very first time, you know… the post that will live here forever as my very first entry... so I just started typing away (with my fingers trembling) and decided on...

What Is Personal Style?  Is it just fashion?  Is it about following trends?  Do you have a personal style?  

I’ll start by saying that personal style and fashion are two different things.  And unless you’re a stylist, you may not know there’s a difference between a career as a Fashion Stylist and one as a Personal Stylist but there is.  

 I don’t find myself using the word “fashion” a whole lot with my clients because to me it has vibes of being elusive, over-the-top, maybe a little impractical at times.  I mean, I do love to “talk fashion” and pour over fashion magazines but it doesn’t feel very relatable does it?  The fashion world, to regular ladies like you and me, is more like inspiration and escapism... nothing wrong with that!  Fashion week to me feels like a glorious circus full of clothing and shoes we’d never wear in our own towns or with our lifestyles, but if someone invited me to attend…  I’d run there in a heartbeat! 

But all of that doesn’t translate well into the average woman’s closet, does it?  Hey, if you’d like me to help you style a pair of pricey Christian Louboutin spiked heels or an amazingly unique and over-the-top feather skirt, I’ll be happy to do it!  As long as it’s true to you.  

But mostly “fashion” to me is fun.  It’s fantasy, it’s expressive, it can even be inspiring… like an art form.  But personal style is all of that fun and all of that inspiration translated into your closet.  It’s pulling together the inspiration, knowing what you like, and knowing which pieces make you feel confident and beautiful in your particular lifestyle.     

Personal style is simply a distinctive appearance.  That’s it!  But it should be true to you, not developed solely from a fashion blogger or a “Top 10 Wardrobe Must Haves” list from a woman who has never even interacted with you.  This distinctive appearance can be laid-back or glamorous, preppy or feminine or edgy and so on. Personal style is how you want to be seen.  But how do you find yours?   

When you are drawn to something you see on another woman, in a magazine, or on Pinterest, listen to that voice.  In order to develop your signature style, you have to pay attention to what catches your eye.  Pay attention to which of your wardrobe pieces make you feel great and which pieces drag you down.  Check and see what recurring themes turn up on your style Pinterest board.  Do you frequently admire the style of a notable person or celebrity?  Those are the hints you want to notice. You must be intentional about it.

Good personal style is for every age, every budget,

and every body type.  

It’s not only for cool LA chicks or edgy NY babes, it’s not only for fashion bloggers or people with big budgets.  Personal style is for everyone and it’s about knowing what looks good on you and feeling confident about it.  It means knowing how to create a flattering outfit that reflects you truly; your personality, your lifestyle, and your goals.  Take a look at your daily routine and what’s in your closet.  Does it reflect your desires, your taste, your aspirations? Take a look at my outfit ideas, what styles speak to you?

Like it or not, clothing sends a message about us into the world… plus we kinda have to wear it so what do you want your Personal Style to say about you?

So you might as well have a wardrobe that makes you feel great.  Once you really know your personal style, you’ll shop with a purpose and bring home only clothes you love.  Your closet will be truly you.

Don’t think you have a Personal Style?  Want to change your current style?  Totally afraid to LEVEL UP? I can help. Don’t know where to start?   Reach out and I will help you find it.   I’m just an email away.    You can read more on my About page and learn about what it’s like to hire a Personal Stylsit here. 

Thanks for reading!  Xo, Jaime