In my next writing life I want to be a fashion blogger. I love reading about fashion. I love thinking about fashion. I love planning outfits for special occasions and everyday looks.
There’s only one problem — I hate to shop. And this weekend I’m attempting to revamp my wardrobe as I prepare to return to the classroom for the 2016-2017 school year and try to upgrade my look as I prepare to take my personal brand and business to the next level.
To get my mind right for this adventure, last week I watched a webinar by fashion blogger Jeniese Hosey of The Jenesaisquoi and style coach Megan LaRussa Chenoweth. The webinar was meant to teach us attendees “How to Know Where to Shop and What to Buy…Without Breaking the Bank.”
I knew it would be helpful. Jeniese is one of my favorite fashion bloggers and two years ago I was a student in Megan’s virtual style coaching program, Style Yourself Chic, a program that helped me improve my look in a way that gave me the confidence to turn my blog into a business. Now it’s time to turn that business into an empire! And I want to look good while I do so.
Ready…
When you go shopping, go alone so you’re not pressured by friends to buy things you don’t really want, Jeniese and Megan advise. Also, don’t go shopping while you’re hungry, tired or feeling bad about yourself.
Be sure you have a clear sense of your personal style and your body type.
…Set…
Megan and Jeniese both stress the importance of having a shopping list. This should be an ongoing list that you always keep with you, much like how you may keep an ongoing list of blog post ideas. I keep my list (for shopping and for blogging) in my phone.
With this list you’ll keep track of things that are missing from your wardrobe, including basics such as a v-neck or scoop neck tee, dark jeans, a little black dress, a blazer, metallic ballet flats, and nude pumps.
Also include accessories or any fun items you want to add to spice up your look. If you’re not sure what fun items you might want, read some fashion magazines, peruse Pinterest, and visit the websites of your favorite stores for inspiration.
Before you go shopping, clean and organize your closet. Not only will this help you figure out what you’re missing but you may also discover you already have awesome clothes you forgot about!
…Shop!
When you hit the stores, bring your list — and a bottle of water, Megan and Jenise say. Shopping is hard work!
As tempting as it may be, don’t buy a look straight off the mannequin (I’m guilty as charged). Do this and you may end up dressed like five other girls at your next big outing.
Make friends with sales associates, but don’t let them convince you to buy something you don’t really want. Also, don’t buy something simply because it’s on sale.
When purchasing basics, buy the best quality you can afford, but hit up inexpensive, fast fashion shops for fun, trendy pieces.
All in all, stay true to your look and your list!
Enrollment for Megan’s Style Yourself Chic program will reopen soon. Get on the wait list to be notified first when it’s ready for purchase. (And if you scroll to the bottom of the sign-up page you’ll see a video testimonial featuring me!)
I’ll be showing off my new wardrobe on Instagram. Be sure to follow me @seejavaciawrite.