Fashion might seem like it’s all about staying warm and covered up, but I promise you — it’s a vibrant work of art expressing your true self. Just ask my understanding husband, who has been hearing this speech for years. Fashion is like sprinkling a bit of magic dust on your day, giving you a boost of confidence that connects who you are on the inside with how you show up to the world on the outside.
Now, whenever my hubby side-eyes my bulging closet, I can’t help but question, do I need every single piece? Maybe not. But do they bring joy? Absolutely, yes!
Picture this: You wake up on a “bleh” kind of day — one of those days when the sky’s gray and so is your mood. But then you pull out an outfit that just clicks with you. Suddenly, your ordinary walk becomes a strut! It’s magic, fashion psychology at work. When your clothes vibe with your spirit, it’s like a rocket boost for your confidence.
The brains behind Raleigh Fashion Fest: Sisters Karly Wilson and Jen Barnard work hard to help the fashion scene in the Triangle thrive.
And as Karly Wilson, the brains behind @raleighisgrowing and @raleighfashionfest, would agree, fashion is an unspoken language. It’s how you say who you are without uttering a single word, much like Miuccia Prada’s philosophy. If your outfit doesn’t make you feel great, it shows. But when you look fab and feel fab, confidence becomes your invisible cloak.
Let’s also banish the myth that being stylish requires draining your bank account at luxury stores. Real style is about finding pieces that flatter you, fit comfortably, and make you feel amazing, and there’s no reason you can’t do that on a budget. It’s sort of like picking a signature scent — it’s about what speaks to your soul, not what a price tag dictates.
Take the classic white shirt, for example — a true wardrobe must! Not the fanciest piece you’ll own, but it’s versatile. Whether you’re heading to a corporate meeting or a dinner date, this piece is up to the task. It’s the style staple that fits effortlessly into any occasion.
And here’s a nugget of style advice: Invest in a great tailor! My tailor, Lia Sa in Apex (@fleurdeliaalterations), is a genius when it comes to helping me and other ladies feel incredible. Sometimes an outfit needs a simple tweak to make it perfect for you! I have literally found clearance items that have been reworked and become a favorite piece just from a quick alteration.
Fashion is all about embracing who you are and letting your style radiate your confidence to the world. It’s the kind of journey where you toss the old rule book out the window and write your own.
If the idea of finding your own personal style feels overwhelming, start by investigating your closet. Dig out those pieces that make your heart smile; they’re the secrets of what truly resonates with you. Let’s be real: Fashion is an ever-changing adventure, so why not have a little fun with it? Explore vintage shops, flirt with bold and quirky designs, and never underestimate the honored classics. Sites like Pinterest and Instagram can provide so much inspiration and creativity.
We’ve all tried some looks that fell flat. But they’re not failures; they’re valuable lessons in crafting a style that’s uniquely ours. Trust your gut, do what makes you happy, and sprinkle in touches that tell the world who you are. Remember, the most beautiful style is the one that feels like a warm embrace, showing off the authentic, confident, and wonderful you!
Gretchen The Color Lady helps Allison Reynolds discover her color palette at Color Me Beautiful Raleigh.
And if you’re looking to discover the perfect colors that complement your natural beauty, meet Gretchen, often referred to as The Color Lady! As an expert in color analysis, she offers in-person consultations in Raleigh to help you find the color palette that best suits your skin, eyes, and hair. Visit colormebeautifulraleigh.com to learn more!
Once you’ve nailed down your style, you’ll start to discover the shops that feel most like you. For instance, I have a soft spot for Azalea Wang shoes — they’re conversation pieces and super affordable. I’m all about being extra, and I absolutely embrace it!
Karly Wilson adds some seasonal advice: “Spring and summer in North Carolina are ideal for transitional dressing since it’s our longest warm stretch. Begin with layered looks — think blazers, jean jackets, and cardigans over your favorite lightweight dresses and pieces. As the temperature climbs, these outfits can effortlessly shift into full-on summer mode. With hot and humid weather, dressing in breathable fabrics and layers becomes crucial. I adore being able to strip down when it’s steamy and have something snug for those chilly restaurant visits.”
Listen, when you are feeling cute, it makes all the difference. So, here’s to fashion that boosts your life, shows your essence, and puts that all-important sparkle in your step … even if it means explaining to your significant other why 100 pairs of shoes are, in fact, necessities. (Just saying … they fit even with a few extra seasonal pounds.)
Reach out with your favorite shopping spots @EricaDeLong
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