The Art of Getting Dressed

You know how they say there’s truth behind every joke? Well that’s true— especially the one about hating your outfit and not wanting to go anymore. Our clothes hold power. A lot of it. The art of getting dressed is, like anything else, a learned skill. But it doesn’t require a class or a degree. It’s simply observation, some good tips, and practice. Lucky for us, we get to do it every day. The process can so often be frustrating, but if you make the intention to love it, it can become an easy creative outlet rooted in self expression.

Know Your Closet

Knowing what you own and how each piece fits you is a helpful first step. Sometimes, that’s easier said than done. So on a rainy Sunday, I recommend putting on your comfort TV show and trying on everything you own. The most important advice I can give you is to be honest with yourself. If you do not like the way something looks on you, THAT IS OKAY. Perhaps it’s time for that piece to move onto its next life. Focus on the items that hit all 3 of these marks:

1. Great fit.

2. Feels like your style. 

3. You reach for it often.

Pro Tip: Those same 3 marks are also important for intentional shopping.

A Simple Formula

On days when my creative juices aren’t flowing, I usually follow a simple outfit formula: a solid, a texture, and a pattern. I usually start with the solid as a base. You can never go wrong with a white tee, a classic black sweater, or your favorite pair of pants. Patterns and textures are the easiest way to add interest to your look — a houndstooth button up, a striped turtleneck, a patterned scarf, a really interesting coat, a pair of plaid pants, chunky knits, velvet, fur, denim. Layering is your best friend. Don’t worry so much about everything “matching” (unless you’re going for monochrome). Just pick out one piece from each category and go to town! Swap out what doesn’t work with another option from the category and, eventually, you’ll have yourself an outfit.

From Outfit to Ensemble

I am a big fan of the atypical shoe choice. On the rare occasion that I wear athleisure, I almost always pair it with a loafer or mule and a long coat. I encourage you to try a shoe (& coat!) that isn’t predicable. It brings the outfit from boring to chic.

Of course, the addition of jewelry and a bag will help elevate a look, but the unsung hero is our hair. Hair is an accessory, too! Take the time to do your hair. One of my favorite fashion icons, Paige DeSorbo, once shared great advice that I live by: When you’re struggling to feel good or pick out clothes, just wash your hair. A fresh start. Literally.

Focus on Fit

In real estate they say only 3 things matter: location, location, location. In fashion, the only 3 things that matter are fit, fit, and, you guessed it, fit! Labels are far less important than way clothes shape you. As a short girl (I am 5 foot on my best day), I am constantly looking for things that make me feel long and help me appear tall. Clothes have this magic ability to help you shape shift, but only if they fit you correctly.

Take an oversized sweater, for example, and ask yourself these questions:

• Do I like the neckline? Is it too wide? Is it too tight? Is it making me look broader?

• Is the bottom of the sweater hitting the widest part of my body? Can I put a layer underneath it to add length?

• Does the bottom taper? (I usually buy men’s sweaters to avoid this.)

• Do I like the fullness of the sleeve? Is it consuming me?

Be mindful of how clothes change your body. Fashion is an art and you are the canvas!