I consistently receive email inquiries saying things like, “I’m in a rut with my wardrobe” or “I wear the same things over and over and don’t feel good about that” and then, “Can you help me?” Yes, is my answer!

This type of wardrobe work is all about transformation. But it’s not transforming into someone different—it’s transforming into the version of yourself who exists today, right now. The only constant in our collective human experience is change and yet we are always so surprised when we find ourselves feeling, looking and thinking differently than we used to. That’s one reason I absolutely love people—we are all the same when it comes down to brass tacks!

Here are some basic steps to follow when thinking about wardrobe transformations in your own life.

seven women over fifty wearing stylish outfits — ↑ just a few of my stylish, smart, unique and lovely clients

Review Your Closet

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: a closet edit at least twice a year (April is the time for a seasonal closet flip!) helps you to know what is working for you and what no longer serves. It reminds you of what you actually own—shout out to those pieces that get buried in the back of a closet and are resurrected upon finding them! This is time well spent on yourself.

Try It On

Put some outfits together and put them onto your body. When you physically feel the pieces mixed together, you will know what’s working and what’s not.

Add Something New

Whether the “newness” comes from mixing existing garments in a different, novel combination or shopping for updated fabrics and silhouettes, something new helps move the transformation along.

Listen to Yourself

Often clients will try a new silhouette or color (or just wear some extra bracelets) and those closest to them will say things like, “Wow! You’re really dressed up today!” I truly believe it’s because there’s a familiar look that we have to those who see us everyday and it can be a little jarring to see a change. But remember: change is what this life is all about! So try the new look, wear it with confidence, tell those closest to you, “I’m trying something new and it feels good.”