Be selective - just because it's in the shops doesn't mean you have to buy it!
Knowing your body shape should mean that shopping trips are much more focused and mistakes are things of the past.
However, I know that they can still happen. Just because an item is 'on trend' or is in the shops it doesn't automatically follow that you should buy it. A little careful planning and caution is required. When you see an item of clothing that you like there are several questions to ask yourself and several checks to make before parting with your hard-earned cash.
- Does the item actually flatter your particular body shape? This is a vital starting point. Is it the right length/fit/size? If not, can it be professionally altered? Would the extra expense be worth it? Do you want to look 'on trend' but awful, or effortlessly stylish and elegant? If the item in question isn't a style that flatters your shape WALK AWAY FROM THE RAIL.
- Does the item flatter your colouring? It is no use buying an item of clothing that is absolutely perfect for your body shape if the colour makes you look ill. If there is a particular colour that you love but doesn't love you back, it is possible to wear it - but as an accessory or as trousers, skirt or shoes. The rule is to keep unflattering colours away from your face. So, if the item isn't a colour that truly loves you - DON'T TAKE IT TO THE TILL.
- Where and when will you wear the item? Does it fit with your lifestyle? It is a waste of money buying a gorgeous gown that is the perfect colour and flatters your shape if, like Cinders, you are unlikely to be going to a ball any time soon. Equally, it is no good buying a lot of casual wear if you rarely have the time to relax and wear it. Will the item mix and match well with other items in your wardrobe? An efficient wardrobe has a high proportion of clothes that can be worn in different ways and on different occasions. If it is a one-off piece that will rarely see the light of day it really has limited value - SEE NEXT QUESTION.
- What is the potential 'cost-per-wear' of the item? Is it a top that could be work with several different outfits for both work and on social occasions? Is it a suit, coat or shoes that will be work on most days or at least most weeks for several years? The 'cost-per-wear' question can often bring an expensive purchase into the realm of investment piece so it is well worth considering.
- Next you need to ask whether it will enhance your professional reputation? Does the item declare the wearer to be effortlessly elegant, stylish, confident and professional? Or does it shriek cheap, dowdy or boring? Only the first category passes the test. But we haven't quite reached the end of the list yet.
- Is the item really worth X hours of your life and work? When put into these terms - the number of hour you have to work to earn enough to pay the price on the label - is it actually worth that amount of you life? Only one more question.
- Is it 100% right? Does it fit all the categories and make your heart sing? If it fits all the categories but you still aren't really sure then DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY. Leave it where it is. It is pointless wearing clothes you don't feel happy in. The exception to this rule is when you are happy wearing clothes that don't make you look fabulous and like the capable professional that you are. In that case it is just a matter of getting out of your comfort zone and embracing a more flattering look that allows the real, gorgeous you to shine. Deal with it!
You can contact me at http://www.freepersonalrebrandingbook.co.uk/
or at http://www.successandimagecoach.co.uk/
or emai me at sue@successandimagecoach.co.uk
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