Carmel Personal Stylist Advice to My Younger Self
No. 1: Take care of your skin.
I wish I had started a little earlier. I didn’t start until I was 35 or 40, and you need to start before that by wearing sunscreen, but you know how it was back in the 80s. We didn’t worry about sunscreen–we wanted a deep tan, so that’s somewhat changed. But anyway, I have a full regiment now that’s the entire aging spectrum, and I do think it helps.
No. 2: Start buying good quality clothes.
When I first started out my career, I didn’t have a lot of extra money, so I couldn’t really afford a lot of clothes. So what I did back then was buy better clothes at consignment stores. Then, I could have nicer clothes without spending so much money that I didn’t have.
Let’s face it, when we’re younger and starting out we don’t have as much money. And, I didn’t have the lure of Amazon! Even so, it’s never too early to develop the habit of buying less clothing but find better quality pieces. One example is the annual Nordstrom anniversary sale because they have fall clothes that are new on sale. It’s just a good time to buy basics.
No. 3: Don’t be afraid to use a tailor to alter your clothing.
When I was younger I would never go to a tailor. I would just muddle through and try to buy off the rack and hope items fit. They didn’t! To be honest, my shape was difficult to fit. I am not tall, have short legs and a long waist. Using a tailor makes a difference.
Beyond that, it’s important to know when to use a tailor. Not every garment should be altered. For instance, I sat through a training once from a sewing expert who said to never alter a jacket that would require moving the shoulders. It’s expensive and very tough to do. Many times it just doesn’t work. And, along the same lines, avoid buying a dress that’s on sale but the wrong size and getting it altered. You may be surprised how much it costs!
No. 4: Younger self, don’t buy colors that are not your best colors.
Back in the day when I was putting together my work clothes, I didn’t know what looked good on me. I really didn’t know all the colors that flattered me. Like the masses, I wore black and grey blazers, etc. I remember one grey linen suit in particular I bought, and I soon realized it made me look sick. Like my colleagues, I bought black and gray to abandonment. At least at this time, I was buying better quality pieces. Heading in the right direction!
Knowing your best color means that when you do buy clothes, they will flatter you. That is why color analysis is one of my most popular and important services. It actually saves money.
No. 5: Wearing sunblock is a great first step, but taking care of your skin with good product overall is always the goal.
I remember having adult acne. I was probably 25. I went to the doctor. I got some medicine, but I also switched to a different cleanser and moisturizer because I thought I had sensitive skin. I used Elizabeth Arden’s cleanser, toner and moisturizer. What a difference!
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