I love the start of a new year. It is an opportunity to reflect on the past and anticipate the future. It is time to make our resolutions. Most of us resolve to lose weight, exercise more, learn a new skill, watch less TV and read more. I concur with all those, but I also make fashion resolutions. As this decade comes to a close, it is time to let some trends go (ripped jeans – do I have to say more?), and embrace some fresh looks.
This year, vow to dress more intentionally. Everyday we get the opportunity to express ourselves through our fashion choices. Remember, you only get one chance to make a first impression. As you stand in your closet deciding what to wear, consider how you want to be viewed… Confident? Approachable? Artistic? Take time to assess and organize your wardrobe to reflect who you are.
It is important to pay attention to the details. Simple things like straight hems, beautiful buttons, sharply pressed creases and impeccable fit take you from ordinary to extraordinary. A chunky necklace, a strategically tied scarf or unique jacket or wrap can make the same black turtleneck appear dramatically different each time.
Fall in love with fashion. What you wear can make or break your day. The right ensemble can make you appear taller and slimmer, which boosts our happiness and confidence. In turn, the wrong clothing choices make for a bad day. Marie Kondo, author of The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, believes we should only keep clothing that “sparks joy.” Let’s resolve to only wear what we love in the upcoming year.
Take a risk. We all get stuck sometimes. It’s okay to have “a look,” but it is also important to stay current and try something new. It can be as simple as adding a pop of color to your all-black wardrobe. Fashion is fun – try something unexpected. The Pantone Color Institute has declared “Classic Blue” the 2020 color of the year. Imagine a bowl of perfectly ripe blueberries – that is classic blue.
I am looking forward to another decade of fashion. I will hold on to some of my favorites, but vow to add some new loves as well. Cheers to 2020!
– by Nicki Smith
About the Author: Nicki Smith has been in the fashion industry for 36 years. She is the owner of and buyer for Pappagallo, located at 2020 Scottsville Road in Bowling Green (The Pines Shopping Center, next to Chico).
