As you probably know, this is the very exciting time of year when Fashion Capitals and cities around the world host their Fashion Week. Designers are now showcasing new duds and hot trends- some that we will see"trickle down" to stores in the months ahead.  We also see designs that have made a comeback or is now being worn in new and fresh ways.   While it is part of my job to observe and take note of all of this, (which I love to do for my clients by the way), I was just wondering - why should the designers have all the fun? Here's how to have a "Personal Fashion Week" of your own.

Want to try it? One weekend, pre-plan like this for the next 7 days (Monday- Sunday):   Pull out 7 different items that you really like, and looks good on you , but for some reason you haven't worn in a while.  Try to pull at least one item from each of the following categories:  shoes, tops, pants, skirts, and eye-catching accessories.  Now,  the challenge is to pair it with something from your closet that you have never worn it with before.   You are basically "shopping"  your closet for fresh combinations.  Not only will you see the versatility (or lack thereof) of your wardrobe, you will also see how to avoid falling into a style rut!   Remember, the purpose of this challenge is to have fun experimenting with new looks and hidden gems in your wardrobe.  Then, proudly  show off your Personal Fashion Week to the world!

We all have our definition of being "dressed up." To some it means putting on career wear and going to work. To others, dressed up is wearing cute heels with some dark wash jeans and a chic blazer. Whatever your defintion, we all know how it feels to have everything (hair, nails, make-up, etc.) all done up and feeling ready to go conquer the world! 
 
What a feeling, right?

BUT... is it possible to have that same feeling when you are rushing the kids out of the house to make school on time, making a quick run to grocery store down the street, or even going to the gym to work out?

Good news! It is!  After all, why shouldn't it be? 

In this post (and the ones that follow), I will briefly talk about some simple things that you can do to look polished EVERYDAY!

Why is this important, you may ask? Well, let's say that your goal is get that job promotion everyone's been talking about. One day, you run into the bank ...and almost run smack into your boss's wife! You greet her hurriedly as you think "uh oh", while taking a quick glance at your hair rollers and black faded out tee in the mirrored window. 

First impressions last.

I mean, who wants to be known as "the lady wearing the hair rollers?" And as in the above example, you never know who you could run into to! 

Yes, I am an Image Professional, a Business Owner, and realize the importance and know-how behind personal style.  But I am also a busy wife and Mom who has a very hectic schedule on most days!

In light of this, I wanted to write about some day- to- day tricks and tips that I use, because as an Image Professional, I am expected to look presentable at all times. You know, I have to "practice what I preach! 

Admittedly, it can definitely be tough at times, even for me.  Like you I have some days that I don't feel my best, my kids are whiny or I'm just running late, etc.

Despite this, I push through---mainly due to my ingrained passion for fashion and style, but mostly because I have prepared for those inevitable days beforehand! Besides,  I never know when I come may face to face with my next client!!

If you've been following my posts or receive my newsletters, you should know that I try keep things simple. One of my mottos are: Complicated style is just not practical! So I will cover just one to two simple tips per post, so that you can "digest" it easier. Of course, I welcome your comments and your sharing some tips that you use. We are here to help each other!

In addition, since this is just a blog where time and space is limited, the BEST way to really "get" this advice, is to schedule your own personal consultation and style appointment that will be totally catered for you and your lifestyle. Everyone is different! 

Now having said all that, let's get started!
 
Advice #1 -- Figure out what your weak areas tend to be when you are pressed for time. Is it hair or makeup? Or is just trying to figure out WHAT to wear a problem?

For me, I have formulated routines and outfits that I can do in a jiffy. One example is my personal "5 Minute Face". I don't want to show anyone my undereye circles first thing in the morning!

For hair that won't seem to behave sometimes, my hats come to the rescue. This works especially well in the winter when people are all wrapped up anyway! Not my husband's ball caps, but fedoras or cute knit caps that reflect my style personality.
Tip: Find great deals and stock up around late February during the Winter Clearance Sales.

Now for clothing. When I'm really pressed for time but don't want to LOOK that way, I reach for three key pieces: a great pair of jeans, an EASY fitted jacket or tee, and comfortable ballerina flats. That's it. There are 2-3 jeans that I know that I can grab in a snap that look presentable (no holes!) and fit comfortably.

My point is to always have a plan. And even when you are rushed or just don't feel like "dressing up", you will still be presenting yourself well. 

My last bit of advice for this post is RELAX and don't put too much pressure on yourself. Once you have done your research and have your plan, remember that the goal is not to look "perfect" all the time. Even celebs, with their fleet of stylists and such, do not look show ready 24/7. After all, they're human!

Well, guys, that's all for now. But don't worry, we will be talking more about this--so stay tuned.

Meanwhile, I'm curious... What's your "pull it together" plan for those harried days?