The Big Heal

Through 2024 and 2025, I began learning about what styles suited me best. I like to think I had some kind of grasp on this before hand, however I was intrigued to learn more about colour theory, body types and essences- as well as upcycling my own pieces, learning sewing techniques and learning more about couture and designers.

Some of my favourites include Chanel and Dior- French Fashion is, in my opinion, timeless and classic as well as incredibly chic. (I think of Andy Sachs in The Devil Wears Prada). Another brand I love is Tommy Hilfiger, and the athleisure aesthetic that has been popular since the 1990s.

I began to learn about Seasonal Colour Analysis, and what palette works in your favour. I found that the Spring palette suits me best- mainly colours that have warmth and saturation.

From there, I also discovered David Kibbe’s Body typing system and John Kitchener’s style essences- which I found not only interesting, but very confusing at times when trying to find where I fit in- particularly when evaluating how ‘yin’ or ‘yang’ you are- this can be very subjective and ergo, difficult!

I have found that I belong somewhere in the family of ‘Naturals’ (Flamboyant, Soft or even Pure!) – all I know for sure is that I have broad shoulders and a moderate height.

I found this helpful for two reasons- firstly, it helped me understand what clothing would look best on me, and also helped me put in perspective the different body types women can have, and how to feel comfortable in my own. In a society that usually promotes unhealthy beauty standards- it helped me define my own ‘style identity’ as such and why I do or don’t look good in things. That being said, I still experiment and tend to wear what I like- and wear it with confidence! (That tends to be the best accessory.)

In terms of essences- I like exploring all seven- Dramatic, Natural, Gamine, Classic, Romantic, Ingenue and Ethereal. Various people have typed me as different blends, and this became confusing after a while… the ones that have come up the most are Ethereal, Natural and some Dramatic/Romantic. This is fun to explore as it helps incorporate your natural features and personality into the clothes/styles that will reflect you the best.

In another life, perhaps I was a designer or stylist- I dream of it often!

Lately, I have been posting OOTDs (Outfit of the Day(s)) posts on my Instagram Story- which is not something I would have done a few years ago, however now I think I have found the confidence to be seen online- which can be challenging- but at the end of the day, if you don’t root for you- who will?

I decided to ‘Go for it!’ and begin posting my outfits- some of which are smart, some are casual, some are quirky or vintage, and so on….

I’m still trying to improve my confidence, so perhaps this may help? Bear with me….!