Brand image plays a crucial role in the workplace, in shaping the overall perception of a company and its employees.

It encompasses various elements, including appearance, behaviour, and speech.  Let’s look at these in more detail:

Professional Appearance

Employees’ appearance is often the first thing that is noticed by clients, customers, and colleagues.  A professional and well-groomed appearance contributes to a positive first impression, reflecting positively on the company’s brand.  Maintaining a consistent level of appearance helps in creating a sense of professionalism and reliability.

Behaviour

Employee behaviour reflects the company’s culture.  Positive, respectful, and inclusive workplace behaviour contributes to a positive brand image, both internally and externally.   Employee behaviour can directly impact customer relations.  Politeness, responsiveness, and a customer-centric approach enhance the company’s reputation and contribute to positive brand associations.

Speech

Effective communication is essential for conveying professionalism.  Clear and articulate speech improves internal collaboration between colleagues and enhances external communication with clients and partners.  Communication should be consistent, and be aligned with the company’s values and mission, reinforcing a strong brand image.

A positive brand image sets a company apart from its competitors.  When customers and clients have a favourable perception of a company’s employees, it can influence their decision-making in favour of that company.

In conclusion, brand image in the workplace is a holistic concept that goes beyond visual aesthetics.  It is shaped by the collective behaviour, appearance, and communication skills of employees.  A positive and consistent brand image contributes to the overall success and sustainability of a business in a competitive market.

I offer bespoke Brand Image workshops and presentations tailored to your industry.

Contact me for a consultation at info@adrienneduplessis.co.za or 084 515 3637

www.adrienneduplessis.co.za

PAARL | CAPE TOWN | STELLENBOSCH | SOMERSET WEST | HERMANUS | WESTERN CAPE | SOUTH AFRICA

The post Brand Image first appeared on Business Style Consultant: Adrienne du Plessis.

Business and styling have both played a significant role in my life.  By merging my passions to become a Business Style Consultant, I definitely have the best of both worlds.

Business Style Consulting is a service that I provide for entrepreneurs, professionals, small businesses and companies to improve the professional style identity and workplace etiquette of the employers themselves, and their employees, tailored for their specific industry.  This service is popular among successful professionals and businesses, as they recognize the importance of having a modern, cohesive and polished image to present to clients and customers.

I also provide personal consultations with individuals and entrepreneurs, who need to improve their business style identity, are entering the work arena for the first time or starting their own business.  These consultations are designed to help individuals develop a personal brand that aligns with their goals and values, and that will help them stand out in their specific industry.

During a consultation we look at a range of the following depending on your specific requirements:

• Brand and identity
• Colour and dress code
• Professional image and wardrobe
• Personal care and presentation
• Business social skills and etiquette
• Communication – verbal, telephonic and netiquette
• Business travel and out of office etiquette

I then provide training and guidance to help the individual, employer and or employees improve in these areas, tailored for each specific industry.

In addition to improving the business’s image, business style consulting can also have a positive impact on employee morale and communication.  When employees feel confident in their professional appearance and behaviour, they are more likely to feel good about themselves and their work.   This can lead to increased productivity, job satisfaction, and employee retention.

Below are the Business Style Consulting services that I provide.  Please click on the link to read more about each specific service:

• Business and workplace identity consultations
• Entrepreneurs and small business consultations
• Corporate consultations and presentations
• Workshops for students and group workshops
• Training for sales personnel
• Business etiquette and out of office training

The consultations can be in person or online.   The group workshops and presentations I present in person.

My goal is to empower those entering the workplace for the first time and to update the style of established businesses and professionals for a modern fresh approach to workplace dressing and etiquette.

I hope you will follow me on this endeavour and please contact me for more information or a bespoke quote at info@adrienneduplessis.co.za or 084 515 3637

www.adrienneduplessis.co.za

PAARL | CAPE TOWN | STELLENBOSCH | SOMERSET WEST | HERMANUS | WESTERN CAPE | SOUTH AFRICA

The post The Business Style Consultant first appeared on Business Style Consultant: Adrienne du Plessis.

Our reality has changed, and with that, the entire fashion and beauty industry.

This is where we find ourselves. You can either stay in your bed until it is all over or you can get up, get dressed, put on a mask and do something positive.  I am going for the latter, and yes, I am still getting up, putting on my make-up (some days more than others) and picking out an outfit for the day.

The question then arises, what about winter fashion trends.  Does anyone really care what they wear?  Well, that naturally depends on you.  I think we will be reconsidering our purchases in the next few months, possibly years, thanks to the economic state.  Gone are the days of buying an entirely new wardrobe, if you did that in the first place.  This year, most people will be focusing on restyling the items that they already have, altering and replacing items that are very tired.  That said you might still feel the need to add a few flourishes to your wardrobe.  A new accessory, scarf or knitwear piece.  Or maybe a new pair of boots or earrings just for an accent of colour and joy.

A month or two before lock down I started putting together my favourite winter trends of the season.  Now, I would rather like to refer to them as fashion highlights for the season.  Areas that you can look at if you like, use if you like and buy if your like.  Fashion is optional and you take the parts you like and make it your own, using what you have and within your current budget.

In the spirit of supporting local, I have added a few pics of items that you can purchase locally or online.  I have formed a good relationship with many of the owners of these fine establishments and can call them my friends.  These have been difficult times for all retailers.  So, have a look at the items, visit their websites and social media and contact them directly if you want them to keep something for you.  I have also added a few links to some of my styling videos.  Here goes:

EARTHY TONES

Earthy hues have been trending since last season, but this winter they are even bolder, combining many different shades and textures.  Wear one hue or mix a few together with some statement jewellery.  If warmer tones are not your best colour, wear them at the bottom and combine with cooler tones on top.

Stone jacket and leather wrap belt is from Ateljee.  The statement necklace is from Jade.

A selection of earthy Autumn pieces from Wild Orchid Boutique 

BOLD COLOUR

If you need a touch of colour after all the earthy tones, bright colours are the way to go.  Cobalt blue and a bright tomato red seem to be leading the way, but any bright will do.  Whether you wear one colour from head to toe, different tones of the same colour or colour block, just have fun.  And if all this colour is a bit much for you, why not try an accent accessory in a bold colour.

Bright and bold rings and leather pouches from Ateljee

Add some colour with a bold print shirt dress or sparkly sweater from Wild Orchid Boutique.  The bold red suedette trenchcoat is from Slate Boutique.

Some bold colour styling tips from me:

BOURGEOIS

The return of stylish modest elegance.  Think late seventies early eighties, trench coats, tweed blazers, blouses, pleated skirts and trousers.  It is a very put together refined look.  On researching the meaning of bourgeois and how it has been used in the past, I must say I was not so excited. I do however love the look, so try to ignore the connotations of yesteryear to this word.  Bring out your neck scarves, pearls and heels, elegance is in the air.

A timeless necklace from Jade

Classic white and navy blouses by Loraine Roux Collection

ANIMAL PRINT

As I have mentioned many times, animal print is not a trend it is a wardrobe classic.  There are so many versions that you really never can get bored of it.  This year zebra and snakeskin seem to be leading the pack, but never fear leopard is always a staple.  Mix your animal with other prints  like polka dots and checks and have some fun with accessories too.

Gorgeous accessories to add a touch of interest to any outfit.  Earrings and snakeskin ring from Ateljee.  Leopard and star print scarf is from Wild Orchid Boutique.

Animal print knit and printed scarf are from Wild Orchid Boutique.  The embossed snakeskin pants, bag, and nude crochet layered frilled V-neck top are all from Slate Boutique.

Here are some Animal Print styling tips from my wardrobe:

PLEATHER AND LEATHER

Whether you go for the artificial or genuine, leather is definitely needed in your wardrobe.  It is versatile and you can layer it with so many different textures from chiffon to lace giving it a chic to punk feel. From culottes, skirts, pants and of course a jacket. Play around with different pieces or discover and revitalize old ones in your wardrobe.  Then add some accessories to make the look slightly more feminine, or not!

The olive patent bag is from Ateljee. The outfit is fromfrom Wild Orchid Boutique. The striking necklace is from Jade.

CHECKS AND HOUNDSTOOTH

Winter is synonymous with checks, tartan and houndstooth.  There is definitely a very big eighties influence, so embrace it.  There are so many versions but generally all remain classics.  Combine it with other prints, checks and colour or wear it as a suit and add accessories in contrasting colours and prints.

The scarf and black and white check knit are from Wild Orchid Boutique. The red leather pouch is from Ateljee.

FAUX FUR AND SHEARLING

One of my favourite items in winter. Nothing gives warmth quite like a bit of faux fur.  That being said shearling and sheepskin are not far behind, appearing once more on collars and cuffs everywhere.  Whether you prefer a bomber jacket, coat or merely a scarf, that furry texture definitely adds an extra element to your outfit.

This beautiful red faux fur jacket looks amazing with these embossed snakeskin pants, all from Slate Boutique.

MOODY FLORALS

This season’s florals are darker, moodier and found on very feminine shapes.  Whether you add a more country feeling with slouchy boots or more romantic feel with a touch of velvet and feathers.  Play with your dresses and accessorize them differently.  Add a coat and fabulous scarf and you are ready for the season ahead.

Statement necklaces from Jade add texture and give new life to any dress.  This stunning emerald bag from Ateljee is the perfect accessory to a floral dress.

The beautiful embossed velvet Tunic and feather brooch are available from Slate Boutique.

Here are some wardrobe styling ideas for your winter dresses:

A TOUCH OF NEON

Just like bold bright colours, neon colours,  are even brighter and even bolder.  These are not for the faint-hearted.  If you prefer not going neon from head to toe, pair a neon top or bottom with white, grey or neutral of your choice.  Or maybe just try an accessory, like earrings or a bag for an extra pop of fun to your outfit.

This gorgeous yellow pouch will add that pop of brightness to any outfit available from Ateljee.

KNITWEAR

Winter without knitwear is just inconceivable.  Warm and comfortable, there are no rules.  Layer different knits together or try a knitted suit.  Big cardigans, brights, neutrals, cables and finer knits, the options are endless.  Tuck in your knit or wear it comfortably over leggings or skinnies.  Find something that works for your body and lifestyle.

Teal knit and camel jersey coat are from Wild Orchid Boutique.  Cuff detail pocket jumpers in grey and stone are from Ateljee.

The delicate mohair striped cardigan is from Slate Boutique as well as these beautiful feather brooches.  The perfect accessory for a plain knit.

Contact the above stores, visit their online stores, social media and shop a little! Have fun!

Ateljee , Jade, Loraine Roux Collection, Slate Boutique and Wild Orchid Boutique

If you need assistance sorting through your Winter Wardrobe, CONTACT ME, and we can schedule a Zoom styling session.

info@adrienneduplessis.co.za or 084 515 3637

Highlight forecast photos from Pinterest and all other photos were provided by the stores mentioned.

The post Winter 2020: Fashion Highlights first appeared on Business Style Consultant: Adrienne du Plessis.

We now have time to reflect on what is important and what we really need in our lives and our wardrobes.  With this in mind, it is maybe the time to be very honest with yourself about your style and whether your wardrobe reflects it.  The best place to start in this process is with your wardrobe basics.

I have but together a video blog about basics that I have in my wardrobe and how to find the right ones for you.

Let me know what you think.

I do offer video call consultations on style, wardrobe revamping and online shopping advice, so CONTACT ME and let’s chat!

The post Wardrobe Basics first appeared on Business Style Consultant: Adrienne du Plessis.

We seem to have assumed a very self-involved focus these days. We know what colour, style and fabric suits us (contact me if you do not!) and what trends are in fashion and we like to wear.  But do you ask your special person what he thinks?

Obviously men differ and some will comment everyday on what you are wearing and others not. And sometimes we ask their opinion, and ignore it anyway.  So, I thought it would be a good idea for this Valentines Day, to ask my husband, which outfit he would prefer me wearing. Naturally, I did not let him loose in my wardrobe, but rather gave him a few options to choose from.

Living in Paarl, about 60 odd kilometers outside Cape Town, the weather in February is HOT.  There is no sea breeze or cooling down at night, the heat hangs in the valley.  Air conditioners are a necessity.  Keeping this in mind I put together five date outfits that my husband could choose from.

Option 1:  Denim

Jeans are hot in February, but the strappy sequin top is looser, making it slightly cooler.  The look is smart casual, so definitely depends where he is taking you.  I love wearing heels with jeans as they make your outfit smarter and make your legs look amazing.

Option 2:  Shorts

Shorts can definitely also be dressed up, depending on the style.  This is definitely a more formal short, cut like a suit pants and it is not too short.  You could definitely wear this to a cocktail function as an alternative to a dress or pants.

Option 3:  The skirt

This is one of my favourite skirts.  A-line, which is super flattering and it has a slit that shows just enough leg.  The cowl neckline is also very flattering and the colour makes my eyes pop.  The combination is also slightly less smart and you could wear this as smart casual or cocktail.

Option 4:  Bling

I love sequins and this top is one of my favourites.  The sequins reflect and give you a very flattering glow.  You can wear the top back to front as I am here, so it allows for different necklines and totally different looks.  The white skinnies are comfortable and slightly smarter than blue jeans.

Option 5:  Cropped pants

These pants are very comfortable and elegant and can be dressed up or down just like the satin camisole.  I love a lace satin combination and animal print is just my favourite.  This outfit can definitely be worn as cocktail wear.

I prefer wearing heels on a date night, it gives me some extra height and makes me feel good, but all these outfits can be worn with flats.

So we initially started with 6 outfits, but my husband vetoed one of them from the beginning. Then after a process of elimination (which lasted a full 60 seconds), he is also a CA you see, he decided on…

Option 3: The skirt

His explanation of why he preferred this outfit the most was not very long.  He liked the colours and styles more and it was not as smart as some of the others.  It is always good to keep these things in mind when spending time with your favourite person.  His opinion counts, even though you think you know more about style than him.  It is important which styles are more attractive to him and this exercise has given me a lot of insight into how he sees me and what he prefers me wearing.

Styling new outfits in your wardrobe is so much fun, but time is the main factor why we tend to wear the same outfits.  As a style and image consultant, a wardrobe styling session with me, is definitely something to consider.  (Vouchers are available)

Contact me for more details.

Visit my Facebook and Instagram pages for more style tips.

The post Cape Town Date Night: Who are you dressing for? first appeared on Business Style Consultant: Adrienne du Plessis.

As a stylist, I too spend time browsing the internet and paging through magazines for what the season holds. The great thing about dressing in our current day, is that it is less about what is in fashion. Today, it is about style. Finding an item that you love, that suits you and making it your own.

Most of last years trends are definitely still with us, so I am looking at new ones or rather “refreshed” old trends from previous decades. As most of our fashion trends are derived from Europe we need to customize them to suit us here in Africa. Wearing large amounts of fabric in 40 degrees Celsius, is just not practical. These are some of the trends that I spotted that I like, find wearable and can be adapted to your specific lifestyle.

There are so many colours to choose from for summer. From very bright pinks and corals to pastels and muted neutrals. Play around and be bold. Yellow has definitely been a firm favourite for the last few years. While, the mustard shades were amazing for winter, summer’s shades of lemon are brighter and definitely suit more skin tones. It definitely lifts your mood!

So beige is definitely not my best colour worn next to my face, but if you have an olive to dark complexion, this head to toe look is for you. It can be a very cool and sophisticated look. Pair it with other neutrals or as I will be doing, add a dash of colour or a bold lip.

This chocolate brown I find beautiful when worn by the right skin tone. Personally, I will stick to brown accessories. Wear the same shade or mix different earthy tones and textures with leather and woven accessories.

So “they” say that if a trend comes around for the second time in your lifetime you should probably not wear it. Well I think “they” should keep quiet because neon is fun. I love bright colours, and neon looks fabulous with denim, white, tan or beige.

I remember buying dye at the local pharmacy and spending Saturdays tye-dying T-shirts. This time tye-dye is a bit more sophisticated. It still has a very summery vibe and you will definitely hear the beach calling.

Prints and florals are definitely a part of every wardrobe and this summer is no exception. A romantic smaller floral has made an appearance next to its bolder counterpart. Mixing prints i still big news and a mix or almost patchwork of prints has also appeared. Find the right print for you.

Black is a staple in everyone’s winter wardrobe and has now moved into summer as well. Black linen is definitely a cooler option this season. Accessorize it down with leather sandals and a macrame or woven bag and fun jewellery.

I love skirts, they can be slightly more versatile than a dress and definitely cooler than pants. Find ones that are flattering for your figure and make you feel amazing. From pleats, ruffles, button-through and asymmetrical etc etc, the styles are endless. Wear them in a length that suits your height and legs. My hemline usually rises with the temperature. A versatile skirt you can wear to any occasion, just change your T-shirt to a blouse and your sandals or sneakers to heels. And of course add a pair of glamorous statement earrings.

No change of season is complete without a new dress. The coolest option for summer by far. Experiment with unusual prints and colours that you love, in styles that flatter all your assets. You definitely need to accessorize a summer dress differently or you will get bored very quickly. So, add a bold shoe, a woven belt or an ostrich feather bag for a touch of luxury.

Lace never goes out of style, but the way we wear it has. It is less pretty and slightly more masculine and sexy. Especially when combined with satin. Transparency has also stepped up a level with organza and larger tulle sleeves. Perfect items to add to your wardrobe for a special date or year end function.

This is another returning trend from the eighties. Denim is a basic in your wardrobe and this lighter bleached version for summer is fresh and fun. Pair it with white or be bold and add some neon.

Boiler suits are the more casual everyday version of a jumpsuit. Love them or not, they are practical. Jumpsuits and boiler suits are great for ladies with a shorter body. If you have a longer body like myself, finding one that fits comfortably, can be more challenging. A slightly stretchy fabric helps in jumpsuits, but most of the boiler suits are in linen, tencil or denim, so be careful of shrinkage.

Another ode to the eighties. Maybe not a February wardrobe item, but perfect for the coast and on that in-between day. I prefer the longer less voluminous puff, as a very small puff sleeve on your shoulders can look very girly. It should rather be avoided if you have very broad shoulders.

There is definitely a large seventies influence this season. Bring out the crochet and macrame. From tops and dresses to belts and bags. It is time to bring out your inner hippy. I love it and think it can be very chic and dressed up or worn to the beach.

My plan for the next few weeks leading up to the end of the year, is to source beautiful pieces to add to your wardrobe in the Cape, wine lands and online. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook and please leave comments and let me know if there is anything specific you have been searching for. Happy shopping!

If you are looking for advice about summer trends or image consulting in Cape Town or surrounding areas. Please contact me.

Images from Pinterest

The post Summer Trends first appeared on Business Style Consultant: Adrienne du Plessis.

So why the summer dress you might ask?

Well, on this specific day my daughter challenged me to take a ride on a slide. I think she was expecting me to back out of it, using my summer dress as an excuse. But I did not. I climbed up that very high slide and maneuvered my way down, realising on the way, that slides are not built for ladies with hips or dresses. The point was, that I accepted the challenge.

I would like to challenge you to be daring with your wardrobe.

We are in the midst of winter it is cold, very cold and very grey. So, the easiest option is to bundle yourself up in as many layers as possible and avoid leaving buildings unless your really have to. Take the kids to school, work, shop, home etc.

It seems we are fearless to experiment in our kitchens in winter. We try new exotic spices, curries, rich sauces and soups, yet in our wardrobes we side step the out of the ordinary.

Yes, obviously we all have a budget and spending money on ridiculous items that we will never wear, is well just that, ridiculous. But, I have found that buying something extraordinary and making it part of your ordinary, will make the daily task of dressing so much more exciting.

Fascinating you might say, but how do I go about it?

The trick is to combine more luxurious textures such as faux fur, chiffon satin, velvet and lace with more everyday textures such as cotton, denim, wool, viscose and linen. This will give you a sophisticated yet comfortable look.

There are no rules, so play in your wardrobe. Bring out an item that you love, but have not worn for a while because you feel it is too “dressy” and combine it with something more casual, like sneakers, a jersey or something denim, for example.

Make a concerted effort to invest in great pieces in your wardrobe that can expand your current repertoire and lift your spirits on a grey winter day. Obviously, make sure your basics are in tip top condition. These also need replacement ever so often, as any piece of clothing will lose its initial lustre and appeal if you wear and wash it every second day. When those are in place you can keep your eye open for the more luxurious textures to “play” with.

Try new colour combinations.

Yes, I do play it safe on certain days and black is my go to. But, on the days you do try new colours, that suit you, you will feel spectacular. This is easy to achieve by experimenting with accessories. Belts, jewellery, scarves and bags can add that extra icing to your outfit.

The important thing to remember is that your wardrobe is never really complete. Just as we are constantly evolving with our daily circumstances and surroundings, so too should our wardrobe. Your clothing is an expression of you every day.

The challenge is on, will you accept it and be more daring?

Contact info@adrienneduplessis.co.za if your wardrobe needs some new life and follow me on Instagram @adriennedplessis and Facebook @AdrienneImage for more inspiration.

Happy dressing!

The post I Dare You first appeared on Business Style Consultant: Adrienne du Plessis.

December holidays are synonymous with the beach, in my life.  Long days on the beach (a bit too long in my teens and early twenties), walks on the sand, picking up shells and spending hours investigating the rock pools.  That smell of charcoal braai from the nearby camping site.  You experience the sea with all your senses and I think that is why it is so embedded in my heart.

Over the years there have been many special beaches, most of them in the South Coast.  I remember these fondly with family and friends and all the adventures that we had.  When I married, my beach moved a little up the coast, and my heart was won over by the river, lagoon and endless white sand.  This year we start a new chapter.  Colder water and a touch of bamboo, but I am excited.  The view, the vegetation AND there are rock pools that I can now explore with my children.

Baked goods are also part of the holiday.  Cookies on the beach and fruit cake for tea.  BUT due to various power cuts, my oven decided to go on holiday before my baking could begin.  Needless to say the gingerbread men will have to wait for next year, but I did manage to source some yummy treats at the last minute.

So besides the food, I love packing for summer holidays. Bright, bold and bling.  Pack away your everyday numbers and have some fun.  At the beach you can get away with shorts, skirts and dresses that are a bit shorter.  The brighter the better.  Bring out the kaftans and kimonos and don’t forget the bold accessories and hats.  Instead of packing items, pack capsules of clothing and accessories that can be interchanged.  Keep it fun and apply endless amounts of sunscreen and a nice bold lip.

My wish to you for this season time is not to look back at the year that is over, but to be thankful for what we have come through and look forward to all the new possibilities that lie ahead.

Laugh, be silly (but responsible), dance and enjoy the precious time with your loved ones.

The post The Beach is Calling first appeared on Business Style Consultant: Adrienne du Plessis.

Spring is upon us, and with the beginning of a new season, I find the need to reflect and share on the past few months. 

At the end of April, I discovered a lump.  It is literally one of those moments where your life flashes before you and you become aware of the things that you have done and those that you still want to do.  Time instantly becomes more precious and all the unimportant things disappear.

Faith, love and prayers brought me through a month of extreme highs and lows.  I went from a mammogram and a sonar that appeared fine, to an autopsy that was inconclusive.  Then, finally my surgeon and I thought it best that we just removed the lump.  Luckily,  there was no sign of cancer, but those five stitches have changed my life.  I have had stiches before, and two cesareans, but that little wound caught me off guard.

I did not tell many people about this, but now I feel it is important to share things like this.  So many people go through similar experiences every day.  A lot became very clear.  Time with family and friends, doing what I love, not being so hard on myself and not worrying so much about the little things, are very important.  I am so, SO grateful for my health now and blessed for the time that I have been given. I realise that it could have been very different, and for many it has been. 

So, being bold is what I plan to be from now on.  Sometimes as a mom, coming from a corporate environment and then suddenly being a stay-at-home and a work-from-home mom, you lose a little bit of confidence.  Things that felt like second nature ten years ago, have become quite huge.  To regain that confidence you need to do something for yourself as well.  You need to be okay.  Then you will be able to take care of everything and everyone else.

Last week, with the encouragement of my amazing husband, I took the first bold step, climbed on an aeroplane and went to Johannesburg for a few days, by myself.  New business ideas, new people and many plans.  Watch this space!

So, I challenge you, as we enter spring, to start doing all the things you have always wanted to.  Bring out the bucket list, spend time with the people that matter to you, laugh, change your hairstyle, dance, eat chocolate… AND have your wardrobe restyled!

What are you waiting for?

Photo: Karen Winter Photography

The post A NEW SEASON first appeared on Business Style Consultant: Adrienne du Plessis.

A wonderfully long, cold and wet season lies ahead.  This means it is time to bring out your warmest layers and revisit your winter wardrobe that might not have been fully utilized last year.

So, taking my own advice, I went through my entire wardrobe and unpacked all of my warmest, coats, knits and wraps and finally removed a few items that I have unpacked and then repacked for the last two years.  I once again came to the realisation that a wardrobe is not merely a place to store clothes.  It is a diary of the last few years of your life, full of events and emotions (well mine definitely is).  Each stage of your life requires a change in your wardrobe, and yet we find it difficult to move to the next, without holding on to something of the past.

There are certain items in my wardrobe, that even as a stylist, I keep.  Certain memories that I hold on to.  My matric farewell dress, all of my evening wear, my graduation dress, my wedding dress and then my first pair of leather boots.   I bought them with my first salary.  Most of my first salary I might add, but who needs food when you are wearing Polo boots?  This year, I am being ruthless. Clothes bought in haste, clothes from previous stages of my life and clothing that I love, but need to be replaced are being removed.

Your wardrobe should be an expression of who you are. It should be filled with colours, textures and styles that you love and make you feel confident.  The truth is, that most of our wardrobes fall short of this ideal.  I believe that anyone can look amazing and stylish regardless of your size or budget, but time is more of the issue.  Making time to go through your wardrobe, plan outfits, try on new combinations and then to go shopping, does not always happen.  Seasons also play a big role.   Winter is my favourite season to get dressed for, with endless combinations, layering and mixing of textures.  However, a lot of people find this challenging and they prefer to hibernate until Spring.

To avoid hibernation a Wardrobe Action Plan might be required.  Firstly, make space in your wardrobe.  Start with going through your winter basics, especially the knitwear.  Once a jersey has pills on it and all the fabulous little machines, tapes and good old fashioned razors have tried and failed, it is time to let them go (The Frozen Theme Song is coming to mind).  The same applies to coats, jackets and dresses.  Shirts and blouses are the next thing to look at, especially darker shirts that have faded, or white shirts that have become a shade of cream.  This applies to men’s work shirts especially.  Let them go.  Pants, skirts and jeans should also be gone through with a magnifying glass.  When your stretch jeans start making funny bump patterns when they are both on and off, it might be a sign to replace them.  Shoes and boots also have a lifespan.  Their heels and soles can only be replaced so many times.

Once the big clear out has been done, it is time to revitalise your style and combinations with your remaining clothes and accessories.  This is the time to bring in an expert.  I find we tend to create a mind block about combining different colours and styles until someone else shows you how and gently nudges you in a new direction.  I am always very honoured when clients let me enter their wardrobes and I discover the treasures that lie within. I have the exact same look on my face that my children have when they enter a toy shop.  That warm excited feeling full of hope and possibilities.  Added to that is the look on my clients faces when they discover they have so many more outfit combinations than they thought.  I experience that “night before your birthday feeling”  (And yes I still get VERY excited for my birthday).  Inbetween photographing the combinations, I make a list of possible items to add to your wardrobe, we also look at items that can be altered, especially coats, dresses and skirts that have the wrong hem length.  Then it is time for shopping!

Your wardrobe is a constantly evolving part of your life and it will never really be complete.  There will always be something to add or something to replace depending on how your lifestyle changes.  Embrace the cold season and dress how you want to feel.

Contact info@adrienneduplessis.co.za and let me design a specific wardrobe styling and shopping package for you.

The post Avoiding Hibernation first appeared on Business Style Consultant: Adrienne du Plessis.