Blog – Page 2

COATS COATS COATS

Building a wardrobe of coats to fit your lifestyle!

Always honor your body shape when adding to your Coat Wardrobe

Living in N.E. Ohio requires us to be prepared at a moment’s notice to have optional outerwear available. Just as we need different types of shoes or boots for wet, snowy and icy days, we need coats that perform for our unique weather conditions. And we need the appropriate type of coat for different social situations. Having access to coats in my catalog of coats in every size is important, from xs through 3x is included. I always like to share information that doesn’t discriminate against anyone, regardless of which end of the size spectrum you are on.

Would you wear a puffy ski coat over a suit or a cocktail dress?

Now I love a coat that does MORE in your closet! The magic is in the way you style it and whether you wear the faux fur collar or hood. Look for coats in yummy colors like eggplant, ivory, and navy. Below you will find: a STATEMENT COAT CATALOG that I have personally created for you to see strong examples of great statement coats you can add to your coat wardrobe this season.

https://hueandstripe.com/catalog/474H&SFhob This link will take you to my hand-selected coat catalog with direct links to make it easy for you to find details and pricing.

A classic blazer is always a useful item in your coat wardrobe. While it’s technically not a coat, it can serve as one in the right conditions. Today as I write this, it is sunny and mid-seventies in September. This grey metallic super stretch is much more elegant than a typical, boxy jean jacket and teamed up with a light sweater or knit scarf, it would take you almost anywhere.

Bust out of the safety of black. If you have one black coat, go for your POWER COLOR in your next coat.

Next, be mindful of getting the right cut for your BODY SHAPE I.D.

Big busted? Avoid wide lapels and look for an open collar. You can always add a scarf for warmth at your neck.
Petite? Shop in a petite department like Talbot’s.
Are you a Plus Petite? Talbot’s is one of the few brick & mortar stores that you can try them on so you get a tailored look.
Plus size and full-busted? Avoid double-breasted styles. A car coat length in a streamlined style is a good choice.

Personality Plus++ Subtle or Bold – Make your statement count!

Accessorizing Your Statement Coat

Be mindful of the type of materials you choose as they are communicating a message. Cloth gloves will always be more casual than leather. We need to build a wardrobe of gloves and scarves too. Again, focus on your POWER COLORS — the colors that make you appear fresh and ageless.

We want FORM & FUNCTION in everything we invest in. If you like a trend, bring it in with an accessory rather than the whole look top to bottom. Invest in mostly classics that will be freshened each year with whatever you pair them with.

About TeeMcBee Wardrobe Styling & Image Management
www.TeeMcBee.com to schedule a Style Chat with Traci

Is it your turn to invest in yourself? Ready for a fresh perspective with compassion and humor? There is nothing that can replace an educated eye working with your clothes on your body, understanding your lifestyle. General information is helpful, but only to a point. Let’s work together to create your joyful, flattering wardrobe that embraces your entire life in an authentic, meaningful way for your now body.

Shopping The Sales with Tips from TeeMcBee

What do the holidays, the end of the year, an end of a season, Labor Day, and Memorial Day all have in common? Sales! But before jumping on the sale bandwagon and splurging on great discounts, be cautious, be aware and be patient. How do you do that? Read these guidelines carefully before bringing all those discounted items up to the cash register.

Shopping with purpose and list of what is actually needed.

Be true to your size. Shop for the body you have now, not the body you assume you’ll have after you lose those holiday pounds or after your New Year’s detox. The only exception is if you love the item so much and it’s close to fitting. If you are confident that simple alterations will make it fit you perfectly, then go for it. But remember that extensive alteration charges added to the price of the item will make your bargain price disappear.
Know the return policy. Huge department stores and well-known brand name stores usually have a great return policy, but some items are truly final sales, so you won’t be able to return them. Boutiques usually offer store credit at best and sale items may not be returnable. Consignment stores usually have a no-return policy. Hopefully, you love what you buy and will wear it. However, recognize from the start what type of return policy makes you feel most comfortable so you won’t be disappointed.
An incredible sale can be a huge deception. Sale items that are practically discounted to nothing may seem like steals, but there is a reason why they are marked down. If you buy something and never wear it, that incredibly outrageous sale item is a 100% bad investment.
Check out websites before perusing racks. If you are planning to go shopping at a specific store, check out their website first. You may be able to find a coupon to use, a scheduled extra discounted day, or something that is on sale only online.
Know your inventory before investing in more. What items are missing from your wardrobe and what items are you well stocked up on? When shopping, we tend to load up on the items that we are familiar with and most likely have a version of them already. Make an inventory list of what you need and shop sales with the intention of filling your needs first.
Fitting it in with ease. Before saying yes to a sale item, ask yourself if it will slide right into your wardrobe. If you can wear it with other pieces you already own, then it’s a keeper. If the piece will make you have to shop for supporting pieces, the sale item just turned expensive.
Turn bargains into bodacious outfits. Let TeeMcBee help you shop those enticing sales and get you into what’s right for your wardrobe. Or if you’ve done your bargain shopping and need help getting your sales items to work into your wardrobe, Tee can help get you to create great looking outfits that you can wear now. Let’s make ten new outfits using your new pieces. TeeMcBee will help you truly enjoy your bargains!

Summer is short – make the most of it with TeeMcBee pulling it all together and creating a virtual LOOK BOOK so you just rinse & repeat.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

Avoid The Haphazard Purchase- 8 Strategies by Tee

It’s that time again — summer clearances and awesome deals at every store as they transition into receiving the early Fall merchandise — happens every single year. Hold your wallet tight and use some simple strategies to avoid over-buying, or worse — buying items that won’t work in multiple outfits or celebrate your now body shape.

STRATEGY #1: WRITE IT DOWN:
Make note of all upcoming events, weddings, vacations, galas etc. This is key to knowing what your actual needs will be. I’ve watched women buy, thinking, “This is cute; I’ll find somewhere to wear it.” Over time they have huge amounts of dressy dresses that fill an entire closet. Don’t be that person; be mindful of your needs vs. wants.

STRATEGY #2: REFRESH FALL
Replace the items that are looking tired but also layer easily with early fall. One of my favorites is to move my cotton tanks to my PJ drawer and buy fresh ones on clearance in fun pops of color.

CPW = Cost Per Wear is a great tool to Maximize your investment.

STRATEGY #3: COST PER WEAR
Staying on top of Cost Per Wear is a wise way to get more for your money. It seems obvious, but I see women with expensive items they only wear a few times. Instead, master your wardrobe by knowing what you already own and how many new looks a garment will give you before buying it.

STRATEGY #4: SAME OL’ SAME OL’
Avoid the trap of owning everything in multiple colors. Many believe this is saving money but it is similar to the wearing-all-black rut. You’ll end up owning a pretty boring wardrobe with no style over time.

STRATEGY #5: FOCUS ON YOUR LIFESTYLE & MANAGE YOUR SWOON TRIGGER
Always ask yourself, ‘Where will I wear this?” Now, I remember one client that had a very casual lifestyle, yet she had an abundance of dressy dresses. Her dresses far outnumbered the few times in a year she could ever wear them. So she had dozens of dated, ill-fitting dresses that she just wouldn’t get rid of. When I pointed this out, she said, “I’ll loan them out to my friends.” No helping that mentality — well, not until they are ready to see a different perspective.

I worked with a woman that had a swoon trigger item that she just couldn’t resist buying that did not fit into her lifestyle. Sequined tops, camisoles & jackets. Each and every one of them were stunning, but she never wore any of them — ever. All with tags. I’m talking nearly 100 pieces. She was living on a farm and mostly wore black slacks and a camisole and jacket for work.

Have a balance of garments that celebrate your real day-to-day life. That goes for shoes too. If you love stilettos but mostly wear kitten heels or flats, then adjust what is in your closet. The closet is sacred space, everything needs to honor you and fit you and support you in your goals and work.

STRATEGY #6: FILL YOUR BASKET THEN EDIT
One of my personal favorite ways to save money is to fill an online shopping basket then save it and then close the webpage. Over the coming weeks, I will receive enticing emails with coupons or free shipping to get me to complete the transaction. I then go back in and really narrow it down to what I really need and pay less money for it. I call it Stalking a Deal. Try it!

STRATEGY #7: VOW TO AVOID ORPHANS
This can be easier said than done. I know this because of all the orphans I find in all the closets I visit! You know, the enchanting designer silk print blouse that had an amazing design that just stopped you in your tracks and happened to be marked down from $250 to $25? OMG, how on earth could you leave it behind? Right? Over the years, if those situations occur in which you just buy something while hoping that you can figure out later how to wear it, you will end up with a whole section in your closet that you love but don’t know how to wear.

When the next opportunity pops up (and it will), remind yourself of those items and the growing space they take up. Use that smartphone and take pictures of the current orphans you own before you go shopping to either remind yourself to not add to it, or that any new deal MUST complete one of the orphans you already own.

STRATEGY #8: DON’T GO OFF YOUR WHEEL
Knowing your skin undertone and your POWER COLORS is two-fold. Wearing those colors near your face will make you look fresh, modern and energized. The bonus is — if you build an entire wardrobe around that flattering palette you will find a better mixability with your entire wardrobe, and that will make saving money, packing and looking confident every single day so much easier! Who doesn’t want to consistently look their best?

MYTH & TRUTH

MYTH: All women LOVE to SHOP till they DROP!
TRUTH: 90% of women I meet do NOT like to shop for clothes!
Perhaps they love buying shoes or purses – but not clothes.

MYTH: It was SO marked down it was a STEAL!
TRUTH: 95% of the time that STEAL rarely get worn — if at all.

MYTH: Never wear white after Labor Day.
TRUTH: It’s the fabric silly, not the color.
White jeans are fine but white linen is warm months only.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

The Cost of Procrastination in Your Closet

Recently I received a blog post from a time-management expert about procrastination. It had me thinking about how that same topic applies to your closet, and that what’s in your closet influences your personal and professional image. And that image, in turn, influences your relationships both personal and professionally.

We communicate details of what others can expect from us by how we put ourselves together each day—and what we can expect of ourselves. Are you deliberate with your image or haphazard? I often hear, “As soon as I get through this big project at work, I’ll invest in my image.” Another popular procrastination phrase is, “As soon as I hit my goal weight, I’ll work on it.”

Whatever your personal reason is for procrastinating on improving your image, I’d like to share what some of the costs could be in your life and career. Why the closet? That is where it all begins. We all begin our day in the closet. How do I know this? No one is walking around naked, so at some point in your morning routine you walk into or reach into a closet or dresser to get your clothes.

Consider the cost of procrastination

Missed opportunities: If you are not dressing for the next job or the next client, you can and will be overlooked.

Loss of confidence: I’ve been told many times some version of this: “I just didn’t feel comfortable with myself and didn’t apply for that job (or raise my hand or attend that event). I sat in the back and just listened as I was too intimidated by all the others to speak up.”

Life stress: Have you ever turned down an invitation because you didn’t feel you had the right type of clothes to attend an event that wasn’t in your usual experience?

Time waster: Do you change clothes 2-5 times before leaving for the day? You feel you want to change it up, but you’re not sure how or where to begin—so you wear what you’ve worn dozens of times before.

Boredom: Do you procrastinate because you feel stuck in a rut, bored with the all-black look, and feeling dated and tired.

Panic: You panic when you’re invited to a gala, wedding, reunion or a work conference. You have no idea where to begin and want to avoid rushing to buy more of the “same old.”

Delayed goals: Studies have found weight loss goals are reached faster when you improve your wardrobe. You lose right away rather than waiting until the goal is reached. Replacing key garments and tailoring as needed will keep you looking great through the process, and will help celebrate and honor yourself.

So how do you know if you are a candidate for elevating your personal and professional image? Ask yourself these questions:

Are you ready and willing to improve your current personal image?
Are you ready to invest money and time in your wardrobe so you can enjoy more confidence and influence?
Are you willing to see yourself from a different perspective?
Do you want a promotion if you are an employee, or as a business owner, do you want to reach the next level of your business?

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

Maintain an Interesting Appearance—It Matters

Nothing explains who we are and what we’re all about better than style and fashion. Style matters. Fashion is important. You know it when you see it — someone enters a room, and you say to yourself, “He has style” or “That is someone I want to meet.” It’s an energy that is undeniable, a confidence you can feel.

Not everyone has “it.” Not everyone does “it” authentically. As an example: When buying an outfit off a mannequin, you don’t need to wonder if the pieces go together because someone in the store already put it together — it’s easy. You might find the outfit appealing, but that doesn’t mean it represents the true you. If you are not the same shape or size as the mannequin, it doesn’t fit you the same.

I find many people dress blandly. Men do this often — a polo and khakis with boat shoes, for instance. Bland, typical, doesn’t say much about them. The “safe” dressing for women that I see most often is the all-black default. For example, in the last month I’ve been the guest in several new closets with all black shoes. Black sandals, athletic shoes, pumps, wedges, etc. — all black. Not very interesting, just safe.

Most people play it safe when shopping; they try to work themselves out of that safe, bland box, but without individual guidance and advice specific to their body and lifestyle, they fall short and flat. Many times I can show them how to create a more interesting image without shopping. It all begins in how items are paired or layered.

Just yesterday I worked with a plus-size 60-year-old businesswoman. Using items she already owned, some clothes pins, a belt I had in my tote bag, and a necklace she had shoved away in a drawer and had never worn, I made her look interesting. I focused on teaching her proportion for her 5-foot-3 frame, I created a waist that wasn’t previously visible, I pushed up her sleeves, and I visually sliced her in half with a pop of colorful print worn in just the right place. She looked ageless, modern, approachable, and professional. How perfect — these were the very style words she had written down before I even arrived.

I showed the client why the neckline she had invested heavily into wasn’t flattering in any way. I demonstrated how fabulous her legs were and why she needs to wear more skirts and hem them to her “sweet spot.” Oh, my, we had some “ah-ha” moments. Now she can’t wait to shop with me so we can flesh out her new fresh look.

Helpful tips to show who you are (men):

Try on a suit vest and wear with jeans.
Add a pocket square that contrasts your tie.
Roll your jean hem up a little and don’t wear socks.
Buy some denim lace-up shoes.
Pop some color other than living in black or navy.

Helpful tips to show who you are (women):

If you always wear pants, get into a skirt or dress or try a jumpsuit.
Ditch black shoes for the entire summer and wear metallic, nude or color instead.
Don’t always wear the same tiny earring and small-scale necklace. Go up a size or try a statement necklace or earrings (but not at the same time).
Try something new: a scarf, hat, belt, colored purse.

Each day you choose what you are communicating about yourself. You decide whether you’re bland and playing it safe or confident and interesting. I’m here to advise and support you with your personal image investment. You can avoid frustration, save time, and save your money by engaging with professional support — sooner rather than later!

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

To the Best Dressers Go the Spoils

You make an impression everywhere you go and with everyone you meet. So, what do you want it to be?

For the most part, you do control it. Think of your “indelible impression” — is it a little dated and frumpy? Perhaps you want to look fresh and modern. Maybe you’re dressing a bit too young or even too old for your age. Do you feel as if you look too sexy for your profession?

Personal lesson: Decades ago, as a stay-at-home mom, I was looking for part-time employment. I decided to check out some companies before making a long-term commitment to work for them. So I had the idea of working for a temp agency. I decided the best way to “become a fly on the wall” was to be a receptionist, and I asked for assignments that were no longer than two weeks. Why just two weeks? Anyone can be on their best behavior for a few days to a week, but by week two, people show who they really are.

There were some great lessons I learned that were related directly to image. Remember, this was about 25 years ago — before I ever thought of starting a consulting business. This was a time when I was struggling with my style and self-image after being a stay-at-home mom for several years. Over one year, I noted all these details at six different companies in unrelated industries.

Those who were best dressed boasted the …

nicest office
admiration of peers
more staff
more respect
little to no “busy work”
clean, organized desks with empty “to do” boxes
expressed the WOW factor

and were …

not necessarily qualified for the position they had
well compensated with the best benefit packages
invited to lunch, golf outings, and speaking engagements
happier and friendlier
confident

And those who were the WORST DRESSED (frumpiest) had

an over-flowing “to do” boxes
a bagged lunch every day
minimum compensation and basic benefits
low self-esteem
a “poor me” attitude

and were …

the “staff” to the best dressed
often overqualified for their current position
often unnoticed until needed to do the work
errand runners
invisible
scapegoats
working late or weekends when there are deadlines
clock watchers
unhappy and complainers

Observing these traits was a real eye-opener for me and helped me decide, both consciously and subconsciously, who and what I wanted to be.

Which list appeals to you? Change your image; change your life!

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

The Elements of Your Personal Presence

I write regularly about personal image, a subject I am passionate about and have been for many years, even decades before I was trained as an image consultant. As a young person, I noticed how people were treated differently based on their how they acted and the way they dressed.

Have you ever been in a room full of people and instantly been attracted to one person? You’re not sure if it’s their clothes, shoes, looks or something more intangible, such as an energy or vibe that they put out. Well, that is “presence.”

Your personal presence isn’t only about clothing or physical looks. Personal presence is much more than that. Since others decide in a nanosecond certain aspects of who you are, it would make sense to understand what your personal presence is communicating, right?

Usually we read articles to understand others, but I’d like you today to turn to yourself. Your habits and behaviors are either opening or closing doors for you. Plus it’s easy to see what others are doing wrong but much more challenging to understand our own behaviors and how others are reading us.

Ask yourself:

How do you show-up in conversations? Do you share irritating things that happened to you that day or instead focus on the positive events going on around you.

How do you inspire others? Do you easily share and connect with people based on their needs instead of your own? Being enthusiastic is contagious. Others love the energy they feel when they are listened to and cared about, more so then the words you say. Be mindful to give them credit for what they’ve accomplished. Being open minded and vulnerable make you relatable. Sharing about those that inspired you allows others to know that you value people and in turn will value them.

How do you influence others? Do you share yourself? Do you get involved with organizations that matter to you? Do you serve in that organization or instead let others plan, do all the work, then you to show-up and point out how they could have done it better? An influencer joins a committee or board then takes on some level of responsibility. They share their perspective by collaborating on elevating the organization. An influencer never bullies or pushes his or her own agenda.

How do you listen? Do you listen intently to understand their point of view and ask follow-up questions based on what they shared? Do you interrupt others mid-sentence assuming you already know what they are going to say? Do you talk over them to share a similar experience that you had? Do you feel like you have to solve their issue by telling them what to do? Do you focus on what you are going to say in reply as they speak? Do you look and engage with them or keep your eye on the action happening around them so that you appear distracted?

Elements of developing presence:

Dress in a way that shows respect for yourself and the event you are attending.
Use appropriate body language by including cues of engagement such as open movements, strong eye contact, a sincere smile, gentle nodding of understanding, a firm hand shake, or gentle touching of an arm or shoulder.
Talk in a clear rhythm and pronunciation so others easily understand.
Be in-the-moment, focused only on the people in front of you.
Build rapport by asking follow-up questions.
Follow up with whatever you promised, such as social media or email connections.
Display etiquette and grace. Know the proper and respectful way to greet and introduce yourself and others, arrange meetings, and all other social graces.
Communicate publicly with consistency on social media and in person. Avoid having two personalities. This all leads to your authenticity.
Exude confidence, charm, and humor. You will stand out for all the right reasons.
Feel good when you leave the event, knowing you presented the best of yourself and elevated the conversations around you while connecting people to those who can support them in their endeavors.

Tips to communicate and behave in a way to exude personal presence:

Self-assessment—Make two lists, one a list of all your positive attributes and a second listing the areas that need some enhancement.
Enlist your inner circle. Ask them for both positive and negative feedback of your overall presence using the lists above. Promise not to be sensitive about anything they might share that you didn’t see. Your inner circle will support you in growing and elevating.
Read, research, and attend workshops on wardrobe, body language, and etiquette to build on your skills.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

Maybe It’s Time to Change Just One Thing

What dressing, grooming or shopping habits have you developed over the past 30, 40 or 50 years? Are all those habits serving you? Along the way have you become stuck in a rut but keep doing it that way because you don’t know what else to do?

While I’m in closets and dressing rooms with men and women across Northeast Ohio, I see all kinds of long-held beliefs. I will often ask why a client wears that item or why she bought this one. In the process, I can help direct the client to consider another way of dressing. I have him or her look in the mirror to demonstrate how just changing one thing will increase confidence and save money.

Many times I hear from well-meaning people, “I am going to work with you when I lose [some magic number] pounds and get new clothes.” Over the next year, I’ll see the person again and again at events, and he or she is still in the same boat—wearing clothes that do not serve or showcase his or her brilliance.

Sometimes the excuse is, “After my kids are off to college …” or “When I get a decent job …”. Meanwhile, the person is continuing to buy clothes for all the occasions of life—and unfortunately not the right clothes.

A professional wardrobe stylist will make every buck you spend count. Learn to see the big picture: Get more from each investment by creating multiple looks from the same pieces as they are coordinated in unique ways. You’ll look like you spent a million bucks—except it’s all on a budget that you determine. My challenge you is to just CHANGE ONE THING this season.

Here is a recent example that represents a theme I often see and discuss with clients.

Tailoring. While performing a Closet Detox I can see clothing that isn’t fitting correctly—rolled sleeves, baggy at the bust, the break of a pant leg, blazers, skirts or dresses too long, etc. So I pull out my clothespins to show how the item would fit if we tailored it. Wow—it’s eye-opening! Usually the client appears taller, streamlined, detail-oriented, polished, and professional.

Then I’ll ask, “Do you like this piece enough to invest a few more dollars in it, or would you rather put that money toward a new item?” A wardrobe coach and stylist helps you make these decisions deliberately rather than randomly—the way you used to when standing by yourself in a mall dressing room with a well–meaning sales clerk at the door, telling you the outfit looks great.

Are you ready to change one thing?

Here are some other changes to consider making. Once you do, you will feel and look better. Just changing that one thing will motivate you to make another change, because after all, we never get it all done.

How about your make-up routine? It’s easy to get in a habit that no longer serves you as you mature.

How about your scent? Your eyewear?

Men, do your accessories need an update? How about your briefcase? Updating to leather speaks volumes.

As you can see, there are many ways to kick it up a notch (or more) that will visually communicate who you are and what you stand for in your life.

I’d love to hear from you. Tell me what you decided to change.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

Love Yourself at Every Size

Don’t wait to lose weight before updating your wardrobe. Celebrate your NOW body.

I often hear people tell me that when they lose weight, they will invest in their wardrobe. I’m suggesting you instead dress your best each and every day to keep your energy and goals more focused. Use these tips to trick the eye and play-up your best assets.

Soon we will be wearing less clothing and leaving the bulky sweaters in the back of the closet. Leave the over-sized, all black wardrobe behind as it adds more weight than you might think.

Here are some visual tips for men and women.

Look your best now, and 10 or 20 pounds from now, by focusing the attention where you want it and using clothes as the tools they are. Harness the power of your wardrobe.

Still struggling to make sense of your wardrobe? Are your closet and drawers full, yet you are paralyzed on how to make sense of what to pass along vs. what to keep or tailor?

Stop the madness and create a step-by-step plan. Rarely should anyone pitch everything and begin from scratch. Never begin at the stores; always begin with a “closet detox.” Take action now for a streamlined and effortless daily routine that puts your best self into the world every day.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

Use Style Bundles to Elevate Your Everyday Basics

Anyone can become stuck in his or her everyday basics—you know, the black sheath dress and tailored blazer for women, or for men, the dark suit and tie or basic jeans and navy sport coat.

Everyone wants a quick pick-me-up to stand out a bit more, so having the right style bundles makes you appear to be an influencer.

Style bundles are always accessories: ties, scarves, jewelry, shoes, nail polish, belts, hosiery, watches, hats etc. A style bundle is usually two to five items that, when added to basics, such as blouses, shirts, jackets, and dresses, can give the basic outfit a brand-new look.

A style bundle visually communicates to others that you pay attention to the details, and that they are worth the effort to do so. Let me give you some visual examples.

Spring has arrived on the calendar, yet the weather may still be stuck in Winter. Freshen your grey slacks or knit dresses with Spring Pastels in your best color palette.

Gentlemen can kick-up their style by stepping-up their details. Concentrate on a cohesive color, such as the navy, grey or burgundy in this example, for a more casual look.

Guys, weekends don’t need to be just boring jeans and a shirt. Add this style bundle in navy, with black, grey or denim. The texture of suede, plaid, and leather will have others taking notice and listening to whatever you have to say! That is influence.

Instantly change your energy and boost the mood of everyone around you with a pop of color, even wearing a basic white–collared blouse and black slacks or jeans. The details in this red example will have others noticing you – even better service from the barista when you wear a style bundle in your power color! Perhaps your power color is orange or teal – whatever it is, be sure it flatters your skin tone.

Feeling a little sassy? Use your style bundle to communicate it! Embrace a pop of Spring color that is sure to be noticed, yellow! Of course, you want to have the shade of yellow that suits your skin tone. This is clear sunshine yellow in a bundle that will work great with your navy’s and chocolates or denim basics. You will appear dressed for the season with minimal effort.

Tip #1: Start in your closet and drawers. I just know your closets contain under–used or unused accessories that are tucked away. All the closets I’ve visited over the last eight years have proven to me that everyone has forgotten goodies hidden away, items that the owners didn’t think went with anything or were saving for a special day. Today is your special day!

Tip #2: Lay everything out on a surface at one time. Begin to see the commonality of the items. Honor the memory that your sentimental items hold for you by using them, e.g. a scarf that has a similar color as the brooch your favorite aunt gave to you. The cufflinks that your dad gave you on your wedding day that add panache to the fedora you like to wear in the fall.

Tip #3: Step outside of your comfort zone. Try some new combinations. Push yourself. Watch how others react to you. Get your power colors near your face and feel your energy change and your confidence rise. Embrace your new, elevated style while not spending a dime, using what you already own!

Please share with me how this works for you. Did you experience any challenges or need input? Did you receive compliments? I want to know! Email Traci@TeeMcBee.com and share comments and photos.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

MYTH & TRUTH

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

Consider the cost of procrastination

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

Elements of developing presence:

Tips to communicate and behave in a way to exude personal presence:

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: TRACI IS THE WARDROBE STYLIST AT TEEMCBEE IMAGE CONSULTING. SUBSCRIBE TO HER NEWSLETTER, SCHEDULE A STYLE STRATEGY CALL, OR REQUEST TEE SPEAKS TO INFUSE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITH PASSION AND STYLE.

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