Spring is in the air! It’s time to start packing away winter clothes, winter shoes, and any unfavorable ‘winter blues.’ In this season, spring[1]clean your home…and your heart. Mark 2:22 reminds us that “And no one pours new wine into old wineskins.” Prepare to purge and take action this spring to release, regroup, and renew for a favorable appearance this season and beyond. To confidently ensure you don’t look like what you’ve been through, see the tips below.
Release, Whats not serving you.
Purge your closet and your mind. Identify and remove a minimum of five items from your closet that no longer bring you JOY. It could be a top that’s too fussy, a dress that is no longer flattering on your figure, or a pair of shoes that hurt your feet just looking at them. While you are physically packing these items for donation, mentally release the unfavorable emotions attached to each one. By creating space physically in your closet and mentally in your mind, newness can flow freely. Out with the old, and in with the new; from your calendar choose a scheduled event then mentally visualize having a joyful experience at that event. Prepare to physically bring new energy to this event by choosing to wear a new dress, jumpsuit, or accessory of any kind in a fresh spring Pantone color such as peach pink, beetroot purple, or empire yellow.
Regroup, your priorities and try something new
Get a burst of energy and desired rejuvenation, by getting off “auto-pilot” and taking a break from your normal routine. Increasing spontaneity in your routine has been known to reduce stress and increase happiness. When it comes to your appearance, there are subtle shifts you can make that will give you the momentum to add newness while staying connected to your best self-presentation. This does not have to be a grand gesture, or a major production, merely include a few ”unexpected” trendy Spring items to your wardrobe mix. For a classic conservative style, opt out of wearing your black pants suit as-is. Instead, trade the jacket for an oversized blazer and finish the look with a bright color sandal. If your style is dramatic and bold, switch it up by reaching for a soft pastel color in a monochromatic look. Complete this outfit with minimal accessories for a noticeable difference from your signature style. It’s okay to ‘stir up’ the energy you want in your life, by pausing your everyday patterns.
Renew, your self-care practices
Self-care covers multiple areas of your life, such as mental, emotional, physical, environmental, spiritual, recreational, and social. A well[1]balanced self-care routine involves each of these areas, so avoid restricting yourself to just one or two of these categories. As an Image Consultant and self-care advocate, I believe self-appearance is evidence of self-care. Taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health is directly linked to confidently ensuring you don’t look like what you’ve been through. One way to achieve self-care through self[1]appearance is to build a wardrobe that is authentic to you, that is your unique style, and easily accessible in your closet. Another recommendation is to schedule your routine self-care appointments in advance to avoid gaps in your polished appearance. This Spring season, make a conscious effort to intentionally and regularly curate your life to incorporate self-care practices that make you feel whole and empowered.
Angianein Wallace is the CEO of 8th Reign Group, an Image and Style Consulting Agency. She is an image consultant, professional wardrobe stylist, creative director, and thought leader. Her agency is designed around the belief that “Style speaks louder than words