Whether it be our weight goals, plans to exercise more, or renewing the drive to move forward in our careers, our resolutions are always based on the reality we would like, rather than the one we have. This is why a lot of people find their resolutions falling by the wayside as reality takes back over as the months progress.
It’s hard to remember why it was so important to lose five pounds every month when we have deadlines to meet and bills to pay. So I’ve put together a simple list of rules to follow over the next year, ones easy to keep since they are grounded in the present, not our wishes for the future.
So next time you take a break for a little bit of retail therapy, keep these simple rules in mind.
Rule #1: Dress for the Body I Have
I put this rule first because I believe this is one of the most important things to keep in mind when shopping.
As women we find ourselves continually buying pairs of ‘skinny jeans’ hoping that some day we’ll be able to fit in them, or even trying to squeeze into one size smaller than we truly are just so we can claim we’re “that size”.
How do you avoid falling into this trap? First and foremost try everything on! Try sitting in the pants, look at them from all angles and see if you can actually move and breathe properly.
Get a second opinion. Bring a friend along you can trust to give you the truth. The main rule of thumb here is that if you’re bulging out anywhere, look for something more flattering!
Rule #2: Ask Myself if I Will Actually Wear/Use this Product
I often find myself falling into the “sale” trap. I pride myself in being a bargain hunter and sometimes a deal is just too good to pass up.
I’ll buy that cashmere sweater that’s on for $19.99 (regularly $69.99) and think I got the best of the company….not realizing that it’s a cashmere blend, boxy and altogether the wrong color for me. I’ll take it home, proud of my purchasing abilities and the sweater will sit there for several seasons before I toss it in the clothing donation box. So did I really save myself $50?
The rule of thumb is don’t purchase anything you don’t have a plan for.
Rule #3: Keep it Simple
The big trend for the Spring/Summer collections is simplicity. Get back to the basics with a few classic pieces in a monochromatic palate. The biggest color making appearances on runways is the nude-camel range.
The important thing to remember is that you want to let the clothing make the statement. Don’t over accessorize, allow the fabrics to take centre stage….and always wear it with a great pair a shoes!
Rule #4: Find My Own Style
Just because a certain fashion is popular at the moment doesn’t mean you have to fall into the trend trap. Take a look at the statement your wardrobe makes about you and find pieces that mesh well. Style comes from within and knowing who you want to be and portraying that through fashion.
Your wardrobe should contain only amazing choices that make you feel good about yourself. Pare down your closet to have key pieces that can work with a number of different outfits and wear them proudly.
If you’re an avid traveler, buy pieces which no one else in your area will have.
As Heidi Klum says:
“Wear something you feel gorgeous in and don’t try too hard; it’s much sexier when it appears effortless. Clothes that don’t fit, or don’t fit the wearer’s personality, don’t help.”
* Photo Credits: Model: Kimberly Edwards; Photo: Jennifer McCready; MUA/Hair/Stylist: Erin Meester; Clothing: H&M; Jewelry: “K, Turn Around” Jewelry by Kimberly Edwards
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