Love Your Body, Work Your Body

Two mantras I recite to my clients almost on a daily basis are: "Dress for the body you have" and "It's not your body, it's the clothes!". In my opinion the two greatest inhibitors of great style are lack of knowledge, and body image issues. The first is much easier to overcome. If a person simply doesn't understand the guidelines of how to achieve great personal style, a little push in the right direction sets them off on a wonderful world of polish, poshness, and professionalism in their dress. On the other hand, body image issues can be thorny and difficult problems to overcome that are sometimes wrought with years of abuse, self esteem problems, or a change resulting in gaining or losing weight, having a baby, or getting older. 

I can't help but become a bit miffed when I see beautiful women who try to hide their bodies or express dismay when a dress doesn't fit they way they expected. It's hard to see women tear themselves down because they believe wholeheartedly that they are the problem. Having a baby should be celebrated, you brought new life. Getting older should be done with grace. It's a natural process and one we should all be prepared for. Gaining weight or losing weight happens. What's important is to not use the clothing as a crutch. Wearing pieces that no longer fit you brings attention to the changes you've gone through. Instead of noticing the beautiful cashmere sweater you've taken the time to pair with your creme pants, all anyone will see is how ill fitted your outfit is. Making the mistake of wearing something that longer fits (or never did fit) also contributes to the vicious cycles of low self esteem, and a negative body image. 

I love what I do because I help women and men remember why it's important to care about how you look and to take pride in dressing well every day and not just for special occasions. It's very gratifying to see the smile or hear the sigh of relief when I step in to assist and give them a piece that compliments their body. Being a stylist is about understanding bodies of all shapes. Some are more challenging than others but no woman or man is without hope. With many clients the change does not happen over night. It's starts with a great fitting pair of jeans and one not too bright color that is not black. Ladies (and Gentlemen) I challenge you to first Love your body, and then Work your body. You may not change how you feel overnight, but looking great helps. And if you need assistance, booking an appointment with a great stylist will help to ease the stress of making the change.

For style tips, trends and ideas check back here and don't forget to follow me on twitter @amandastylesyou 

to book a closet consultation or a style session or personal shopping appointment email  us at amandastylesyou@gmail.com