I need to feel/look hipper! Help!

[Anonymous]

I just posted about my overflow of cardigan sweaters. So here is the deal, as mentioned, I am a 40 year old, SAHM with a 4 and 6 year old. I am 5'8 about 145, and slimmer on top then on the bottom. I have a ton of clothes but feel really just drab and not hip most of the time. I need some help, and don't really have the money for the wardrobe/closet helpers noted on this site sometimes.

What do you suggest women at my place in life wear to be comfortable with kids and running around a lot, but also to look hip and not too suburban house wife? Thanks in advance!

[Anonymous]

If I were you, I'd go to denim bar and get a nice stylish pair of jeans that fits you perfectly. Might be around $100 but they should last you a long time.

To me, cardigans just scream "librarian." They are fine in some situations, but they should not be your every day default option.

[Anonymous]

OP, a consultant might just save you tons of money. How much of your wardrobe are you wearing? Average woman wears only 20%. How many items are in there that you don't wear? I'd consider bringing someone on board who can help you solidify your style, help you buy less and help you avoid mistakes.

Sounds to me like what you really need is style help. You need to hire someone for that. One of the best things I ever did - and I'm like you....40ish and starting to feel somewhat drab. I now love what I wear every day - and I wear everything.

[Anonymous]

http://www.hairfinder.com/fashion/cardigan.htm

Article on how to jazz up your cardigans. I would also buy some nice dark jeans, preferably boot cut with a bit of stretch. I recently bought a nice pair at Arden B in Georgetown. Also invest in a good pair of ankle boots for the winter and update your look with a trendy bag.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP, a consultant might just save you tons of money. How much of your wardrobe are you wearing? Average woman wears only 20%. How many items are in there that you don't wear? I'd consider bringing someone on board who can help you solidify your style, help you buy less and help you avoid mistakes.

Sounds to me like what you really need is style help. You need to hire someone for that. One of the best things I ever did - and I'm like you....40ish and starting to feel somewhat drab. I now love what I wear every day - and I wear everything.

Have folks noticed that there is someone always trying to push an image consultant on this Forum? It's not the first time, but this sounds so much like an ad that I have to crack up.

[Anonymous]

PP, I was thinking the same thing. Everytime someone seeks fashion advice, someone suggest using a consultant.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:http://www.hairfinder.com/fashion/cardigan.htm

Article on how to jazz up your cardigans. I would also buy some nice dark jeans, preferably boot cut with a bit of stretch. I recently bought a nice pair at Arden B in Georgetown. Also invest in a good pair of ankle boots for the winter and update your look with a trendy bag.

OP here: I liked this article on cardigans! Thanks. I have some dark jeans, boot cut and some skinny jeans that I can wear with riding boots. or with a long cardigan and ballet flats. I think I have pretty good style, but just want to put it up a notch. . .thanks.

[Anonymous]

I'm the pp who suggested a stylist but I haven't been doing the multiple posts as someone hinted. I posted in this thread because like OP, I've been there.

Hiring a wardrobe consultant helped me break free to discover my true style. My closets are efficient and shopping is now a job. I'm just totally sold on the idea of having one.

For the record, I'm a big believer in hiring experts all over the board. They simplify my life and save me time, money and frustration. This is why I also have a personal trainer, virtual assistant, concierge services, and a computer expert. I'm not wealthy but time is money to me and having these people allows me to spend more time on what's important.

[Anonymous]

Ooops, meant to say "joy" instead of "job"!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I'm the pp who suggested a stylist but I haven't been doing the multiple posts as someone hinted. I posted in this thread because like OP, I've been there.

Hiring a wardrobe consultant helped me break free to discover my true style. My closets are efficient and shopping is now a job. I'm just totally sold on the idea of having one.

For the record, I'm a big believer in hiring experts all over the board. They simplify my life and save me time, money and frustration. This is why I also have a personal trainer, virtual assistant, concierge services, and a computer expert. I'm not wealthy but time is money to me and having these people allows me to spend more time on what's important.

How much do these 'fashion consultants" cost? What exactly do they do? Can they help even plus sized women? I actually think you may be on to something. I am completely stumped on what to wear or what even looks decent. I would LOVE the help! Where do you find these people?

[Anonymous]

Do you have any friends in NY?? Go spend the weekend with them and walk around the streets in SOHO. So much inspiration. I just did that last month - I bought a black leather jacket and a long sweater drenched in fur and feel like a new woman. (and the clothes are SOO much cheaper in NY!!!)

[Anonymous]

If a fashion consultant can help you save money and keep you from buying mistakes, then I would see this as an investment, not a cost. I'm sure their fees are all over the board depending upon their experience and training.

I would also assume that there are ones who work with all sorts of ages and body sizes. There was a previous post mentioning www.aici.org where you can find one.

Would also emphasize that like any professional you hire, you should call at least 3 and see if they are a match for what you need and your personality.