I think I'll just wear what I have

I’ve got a new look for 2019 | MappCraft.com

Outfit Credits: Dress, Leith (2018); Sweater, Anthropologie (2017); Scarf, Ferragamo (2010); Necklace, Stella & Dot (2015); Cuff, Hermes (2018); Glasses, Warby Parker (2018)

New Year, Same Me

I am starting this year with big commitment - to wear what I have, and only what I have, for all of 2019.

Translation: No shopping for new fashion items all year.

No clothes, no accessories, no handbags, no shoes, no bikinis, no denim, no tee shirts, no layering tanks, no cashmere sweaters, no scarves, no belts, no statement earrings, no dress pants, no blazers, no premier designer small leather goods, no jackets, no hats, no furry glove, no Gucci belts...

You feel me?

How does that make you feel?

I ask because nearly every woman I've told is terrified by the idea.

“No shopping for an entire year!“

The idea falls on their ears like a prison sentence.

And this, my friends, is exactly why I want to take on the #WWIH19 challenge - to figure out why the idea of buying nothing new is so scary to so many American women.

After 16 seasons perfecting the art of the seasonal capsule wardrobe I know I have enough clothes to dress for any occasion that should arrive in 2019 and so far, one week in, I'm good.

That is until yesterday when I remembered that Matt and I are planning a European vacation in October to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary. The idea of going to Barcelona or Paris or London with no new clothes, not even a fresh pair of sneakers, suddenly mortifies me.

Mortify.

Interesting word choice, huh?

But that is exactly how I the idea resonated, with a twinge of embarrassment, even shame.

For now, I will file my reaction under "Fascinating" and sit with the uncomfortable feelings. I'll get back to you with more insight after I noodle it out.

Let me ask you, knowing you have enough of everything (you do) why do you shop? Simple question. Fascinating answers.

Be the Bright!
Jenn

PS: If you want to watch how my #WWIH19 journey unfolds, follow me on Instagram @TinyClosetTonsofStyle and go ahead and use that tag to play along.

Clothes the Deal: The Guide For Transformative Personal Style

Download my book for free at TonsofStyle.com

Clothes the Deal: The Guide for Transformative Personal Style by Jenn Mapp Bressan - download your free copy at TonsofStyle.com

How To Cement Your Personal Style, Lesson 1: Examine Style Archetypes

Personal Style, Defined

Personal style is a nebulous concept.  One thing is certain - you know great style when you see it. This is because style transcends clothing – it’s a vibe. Style is the energy of multiple subtle elements that add up to a personal look with feeling.

It takes time, energy and self-realization to cultivate a wardrobe that feels 100% you. But here’s the good news! Without realizing it you’ve already spent years experimenting with trends, admiring stylish people and collecting inspiration. 

The goal of this series is to help you process all that info so you can get down to business and start cultivating your unique look.

LESSON 1: Examine Archetypes

Boho, classic, vintage, preppy, edgy, downtown, romantic, glam, conservative, minimalist, trendy, beach, street, urban, athletic -- the adjectives to describe style are infinite.  Plus, it’s tricky to categorize a your personal style with just one word. A range of styles likely influences your ideal look.

ACTIVITY: Pinspiration

Step 1: Create a STYLE ARCHETYPES board in your Pinterest account (and follow MappCraft on Pinterest while you're at it!)

Step 2: Consider the 8 Style Archetypes Pinterest boards below and think about how each look makes you feel. Does the energy resonate or fall flat? Are there elements you love and others that don’t vibe? 

Step 3: Pin whatever images resonate, don't think too hard about your identity vs. the Archetype or how skinny the model is compared to your body type (DISCLAIMER! Most are impossibly skinny. I tried.), we are reacting to energy, mood, feeling. 

Step 4: Review your Style Archetype board. It is 100% likely you'll pick several looks from several boards, even if the Archetypes seem to conflict. Personal style is a melding of influences. 

1.    EDGY: 

Edgy Essentials 

2.     AMERICANA

Americana Essentials

3.     EDITORIAL ECLECTIC

Editorial Eclectic Essentials

4.     CLASSICALLY CHIC

Classically Chic Essentials

5.     FULL ON GLAM

Full On Glam Essentials

6.     ATHLEISURE

Athleisure Essentials

7.     MINIMALIST

Minimalist Essentials

8.     FREE SPIRIT

Free Spirit Essentials

Now that you have a better idea of which Style Archetypes you are attracted to you, identify the particular elements that made you pin the look. Americana stripes? Edgy ripped jeans? Athleisure sneakers? Classically Chic pearls? Editorial Eclectic pops of color? Sculptural Minimalist jewelry? Full On Glam body con skirts? Free Spirt embroidery details? 

Jot them down. Take mental notes. You will need this information for How to Cement Your Personal Style, Lesson 2: Evaluating Accessories.

xoxo Jenn

If you like what I write please share, follow, like and CLICK THE HEART BELOW. You will be rewarded handsomely in your next lifetime and the next time I see you in person.