I have great news to share with you. Many of you have asked what the experience is like working with a style and personal branding consultant so we decided to “demystify” things. What fun! In this inaugural post for Client Spotlight, we’re featuring Amy M. Amy is one of L Squared Style’s clients who has told us many times that “you’ve changed my life!” To be honest, she has a strong sense of style. All she needed was a bit of coaching to understanding what cuts and colours of garments were best for her. Enough from me. Let’s hear from Amy. Why did you originally reach out and contact L Squared Style? I knew I had a lot of great pieces in my closet but I was stuck in a fashion rut. My Mom (and shopping partner in crime) was constantly telling me that I needed to wear colour and pattern but I was slightly terrified at the thought of wearing anything other than a solid black or grey. I had a lot of fantastic shoes and accessories but felt I could only wear them with solid black or, on a really adventurous day, black & white. I was also having a tough time transitioning into my “ahem” late 30’s. One thing I really struggled with was casual clothing. I went from office appropriate wear to yoga pants, there was nothing in between. And I don’t even do yoga! What were your initial thoughts once you had your first discussion with Lazina? I thought Lazina was really friendly, professional and fun. She was well organized, which I really appreciated! I loved the questionnaire she sent before the closet consultation. It asked all the right questions and really made me feel like she understood what I was after and what I most wanted from the experience. What was the style coaching experience like for you? There’s a few things I’d say: The closet consultation alone was brilliant. Lazina highlighted the good and the not so good pieces in my wardrobe and showed me how to re-love pieces I already owned by taking them to a tailor and making some small changes. I had a green blazer in my closet I had for probably 5 years and wore only a couple times. She showed me how to take up the sleeves to a ¾ length, move a button and shorten it and now I wear it all the time! The other thing that was life changing was when I was talking about my struggle with casual clothing as Lazina was looking through my mountains of t-shirts and jeans. She looked at me and said “You aren’t a t-shirt and jeans girl, so why are you trying so hard to be one?” LIGHTBULB MOMENT! I discovered my casual style, which was a maxi dress and denim jacket or trouser jeans, a button up shirt and a blazer…all things I already owned! I loved the tip sheet that was sent after the closet consult as well as the photos that were included. This
You are your greatest asset
This past weekend, I got the opportunity to hang out on Global TV to share some fundamental advice on building a brand for yourself. Here’s the gist of the advice shared: You must put effort into how you share YOU each and every day. You are your greatest asset. Similar to how companies take time to build a brand that truly reflects their values, we as individuals need to do the same. Present what is real and authentic to you. Don’t be a faker. People see that right away. Take some time to reflect on and articulate what differentiates you from others. We are each unique and quite wonderful. How do we share this with others? That’s my question for you today. Think about it. You’ll be better off for it. Sidebar – it was great meeting new friends at Global TV!
Friday Find: When function and style walk down the street together
So, it’s been snowing for over 24 hours where I live. I’m not sure if I’m going to leave my cozy workspace today. If I do, I’d certainly need to keep warm and dry – especially on the tootsies. Our Friday Find this week, is all about when function and style meet. Check out these winter boots. For the Ladies Sorel- Tivoli High II Boots Why these are awesome They are actually winter boots. Not those pretend stylish winter boots that let your feet freeze. They are $140 and, until Nov 30, are 25% off. You’re welcome. These are great for braving the cold downtown win tunnels or trudging through big snowbanks. For the Gents LL Bean- 10″ Shearling Lined Why these are awesome These too are actual, real winter boots. You could dress them up with a wool coat or down with a down-filled sporty coat. They are $199 and are 10% off right now. There’s also a $10 off gift card you could take advantage of. Happy Friday!