Things I've Changed My Mind On After 20 years as a Fashion Stylist

• That there are “rules” that apply to everyone

 Body shape rules, colour rules, what you “should” and “shouldn’t” wear.

 Now, I see these more as guides, not rules. Context, personality, and lifestyle matter far more. A client recently wanted to dress in the shape of a "box", so you can't assume how someone wants to be perceived.

• That more options = better outcomes

 I used to think giving clients lots of choices and loads of clothing was helpful.

 It’s not always. It can create noise, waste and overwhelm.

• That confidence comes after the outfit

 It can, but more often it’s the other way around.

 The outfit supports the mindset, not the other way around.

• That corporate style had to be conservative to be credible

 This has shifted significantly. In fact my corporate clients tend to avoid trends and seek personal expression. There’s now far more room for individuality, when it’s done with intention.

• That people wanted to be told what to wear

 Some still do.

 But most want to understand why something works, so they can make better decisions themselves. My clients are my collaborative partners, we kick goals together.

What hasn’t changed?

People don’t need a new identity.

They need to feel like themselves again, just with more clarity, more intention, and more confidence to be the best, most empowered version of themselves.

With style,

Caitlin