Can you relate to this? That sinking feeling, standing in front of your closet in your towel, hair dripping. The children are seconds away from screaming for a refill, or a wipe, or can you put on my socks, or he hiiiiiiiiit me. Meanwhile, you have less than one minute to get dressed. Quick: Where am I supposed to be today? Big meeting? Coffee date at the park? Volunteering at school? Do you remember to take a deep breath and ask, how do I want to feel? No?
I have been a fashion stylist for more than 15 years, behind the scenes and on-camera for photo shoots, commercials, and TV. Nothing, though, fills and moves me more than my one-on-one work with clients. Through sessions with hundreds of women, I have developed a four-step process: Dig Deep, Play, Purge, and Rediscover. These stages acknowledge and honor our shifts and transitions. By implementing them, we leverage clothing to complement and celebrate who we have become.
If you are looking for a new pair of black pants or a dress for an upcoming event, I can point you in the direction of several fabulous stylists who will find you just the thing. This is not the work that I do.
Instead, we begin with talking about where you are right now, emotionally and in your body. We DIG DEEP: What are your goals, and what has been holding you back? What sensual or natural elements bring you joy? Clothing is not the focus at this point in the process.You are. I will listen and learn about your history, your body and its evolution, your budget, and your lifestyle. I will call out when you’re being hard on yourself. I know what it’s like to be held back by untrue, long-held beliefs — and that we can live our dreams through self-love.
Next, we go to a store and dress up. We PLAY. I am going to ask you to try on everything. At some point, you’ll say, “Cate, I would never wear that!” After a few hits and misses, you’ll try something on — something beyond your comfort zone — and there will be a click. I will notice your posture change, your chin lift, your head tilt, and your eyes brighten. Remember her? She is that voice of intuition, the one who belly laughs with her best friend, dances to her favorite song on full blast in the kitchen, holds signs and starts chants at rallies. Feeling herself in all of her goddess glory.
When we get to the PURGE part of the process, we meet all of the versions of you still living inside your closet. Maybe it’s the 20-something woman who danced all night, the 30-something with her eye on the corner office, and the one who holds onto maternity clothes because … you never know. Some pieces still work, while others “fit,” but for some reason, feel off. . We have given voice to your fears and dreams, and we have played and experimented with new silhouettes, prints, and color. Now it’s time to sell (with my guidance) or donate all of the things in your closet that no longer serve you. And become open to the ripple effects that will surround this lighter, more in-the-moment you.
Through our work, your clothes will become a daily touchstone to bring you back to you. To pass the mirror and feel good. That cool, bright sweater can give you a little boost. A jolt of pleasure on an otherwise tough day. These moments build, allowing you to REDISCOVER the beauty that emanates from you, surrounds you, and supports you.
Interested in learning more? I’d love to invite you to set up a 30-minute introductory consult by phone or video. Together, we will discover if we’re a fit to partner in this sometimes challenging and ultimately freeing process. I’m excited to know you!