THE CONFIDENCE REBOOT
“Get to know your confident areas, mental and physical,” says Mcmaster, below. “What’s your body shape? What are your best features? Do you like the sensation of being belted and tailored, or are you happiest in looser, layered silhouettes? Do you prefer dresses or separates? Identifying the you factor can take a while and sounds like something out of a cheesy life-manual, but ultimately it’s liberating. Going in store and finding an experienced, knowledgeable personal shopper is a worthwhile investment of your time.
Aim for the equilibrium between being the best version of yourself – and not having to do too much to maintain it.
If you’re starting from scratch, the suit rail is a good opener because you can buy in to that tailored look gradually. You could begin with a great jacket that elevates smart jeans, and later go back for the matching skirt or trousers.
Never buy anything that only does one job. A cadre of versatile pieces = confidence.
Invest in a handful of really good pieces. Top quality weaves often have some natural stretch that makes even a pencil skirt much more comfortable – without the sausage skin effect of Lycra. If you like knitwear, a beautiful Merino or cashmere will have a natural, subtle gleam that’s flattering and smart.
Keep in touch with fresh ideas and tweak your favourites accordingly. If you love trousers, try culottes – they’re flattering, work like skirts but have a modern attitude. If you prefer one pieces, it’s time for at least one smart jumpsuit.
Build on a handful of really beautiful pieces that show you at your best. People won’t notice that you repeat wear them, only that you look good, especially if you keep switching accessories. Silk blouses are an effortless way to inject some playful pattern, details or colour into your capsule wardrobe and there’s a style that suits all figures. Don’t just wear them as tops – they can be layered under sleeveless dresses or used under a jumper to provide a hint of contrast trim.
Always ask whether it works under a jacket or a longer line coat – nothing pulls an outfit together and gives confidence like some tailoring.
Formal doesn’t have to mean fitted or tight. Drapey, fluid, folds of fabric can look sleek – and more current.
If your budget’s limited, focus on bestquality day fabrics that you can amp up with jewellery – better than skimping on under-par evening wear.