sending teachers back to school in style
I received an email this past spring from a producer at a local film company. He was looking for a wardrobe stylist to be a part of a project for the National Education Association. The video project would be a What Not to Wear-like makeover of three El Paso, Texas teachers. The stylist would pull and style looks for the three women AND host the makeover.
I thought for about two seconds before jumping at the opportunity. I work one-on-one with clients every day and what a great opportunity to take my show on the road and work in a new arena, video. My husband said, “I got the kids. Go for it.” I packed my bags and headed out to El Paso for three days.
The first woman I worked with was Bernadette. She is a special education teacher and a busy, young mom of two. I knew right away I wanted to “youth-up” Bernadette’s look with some on-trend styles, pops of color and fun layering pieces.
As outlined in this video, I added interest to Bernadette’s look in three ways that anyone can incorporate into their own style.
Add a third piece.
Do you know about The Third Piece Rule? That third piece can be a layering piece (jacket, cardigan, vest), an accessory (bold necklace, scarf, cuffs) or a pop of color in your shoe, purse and even lip!
Mix patterns.
The pattern-mixing trend started a few years ago and it remains a fun way play with style. Some people (hello Solange!) can pull off an array of bold colors and patterns in their outfits and look crazy eclectic chic instead of just plain crazy. For us mere style mortals looking to get our feet wet mixing patterns, follow these two steps:
a.) Select a like color in the two garments you want to mix. This makes the pattern mixing feel purposeful.
b.) Opt for patterns of two differing scales -one bold/large and one muted/small. That way your eye focuses on the larger print. It can end up looking too busy if the two prints are the same scale.
Some easy print-mix combos to start with are black and white patterns, or a stripe with a floral.
Venture outside your comfort zone.
I can’t tell you how many times a client has said “Oh no…I never wear _____” only to change her mind after we work together. One way to wake up your style is to try pieces outside what you normally wear. For Bernadette that piece was a dress. It does add variety to your look when you add different types of clothing to your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to try! Whether you feel something won’t be flattering on your body type, too young for you, or you simply think you can’t pull it off, you may end up surprising yourself with unexpected results!
This is the first of a three-part series where I discuss, in detail, style tips I used when I worked with three El Paso, Texas teachers earlier this summer. The videos produced by Sapling Pictures are for National Educations Association’s Back-to-School series.
- About the company
DC Style Factory is a personal shopping and styling service for men and women looking to add polish and individuality to their wardrobes. We believe personal style is for anyone who wants it — regardless of age, size or budget.
1 Comment
I love this! No matter what your profession, you never need to feel “stuck” in a clothing rut. way to go, Rosana!