Style Buzz: Good Surprises + 9 Habits of the Style Savvy + Styling A Buttonup

Eugene Stylist
Jun 19
4 min read

Three Ideas to Inspire Your Style This Week

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I’ve taken what you’ve told me and I DO wear everything in my closet! I am even putting things together in different ways and sometimes I’ll get a good surprise!"

This quote actually came from my sweet mum! She was already adorable but once I gave her permission to clear out things she didn't really love and only have her favorites in her wardrobe, she really blossomed. It's fun watching her express herself and create her own unique style through clothes.

xxx rachel

9 HABITS OF THE STYLE SAVVY

"THEY'RE SO STYLISH!"

What does that even mean when we think someone is stylish? Is it someone who follows fashion and trends? Is it someone who ignores trends and does their own thing?

Does price or label matter?

When I ask a new client whose style they admire, they'll often reference a friend who always looks put together and effortless. They can't say why or what kind of garments this person wears, they just know that the overall look is cohesive and pleasing to the eye, and most importantly, is completely authentic to that person.

(I once heard that Queen Elizabeth II was the most stylish person on Earth because you could create just a basic drawing of her outfit and anyone you showed it to would know it was her.)

Happily, the parameters for being stylish are nice and broad! You can wear whatever brand, cut, color, fabric, or age of clothing you want. What makes you stylish is how you put those pieces together in a way that represents the real you. But whatever the look, style savvy people also have some basic habits that support personal style.

Clear out your closet regularly: This help you in so many ways. Not only does it keep the clutter to a minimum, it lets your style evolve by removing those pieces that no longer serve who you are right now. You also get a stronger mental inventory of what you have and where there might be gaps.
Make sure clothes fit properly: Fit is everything! Even the most expensive item will look cheap if it doesn't fit you properly. If something doesn't fit well, you'll be uncomfortable (or worse, you won't wear it!), so get those pieces tailored.
Take care of small flaws immediately: Snip or use a Snag repair tool on loose threads, treat stains as soon as you see them, use a lint roller or defuzzer for cling-ons, sew on loose or missing buttons - whatever the garment needs to keep looking new and fresh.
Schedule time to get ready: Even if your outfit is already planned, getting dressed in a rush is a bumpy start to the day. Be realistic about how long it takes and approach it deliberately, not as an afterthought. It could give your own creativity a chance to blossom and you'll try new combinations that might just delight you.
Use accessories to enhance outfits: A single necklace or a stack of bracelets (or vice versa), a hat, a scarf, cool glasses, a bag - all of these will add dimension to your look and you'll get known for wearing them. Go one step further and add fancy pieces to casual outfits. Pair contrasting colors or go monochrome. Mix metals. Go minimalist or maximalist. Have a signature piece or a statement piece (or both). There are no rules here.
Buy versatile pieces: Yes, you should also be looking for quality so the garment lasts, but this is probably the most crucial to establishing a personal style. Start with a few favorite pieces and experiment with them, trying them in varied and unexpected ways. Wearing one piece in multiple outfits underscores that this is your style.
Pay attention to little details: Iron it, cuff it, drape it, layer it, unbutton it, do a French tuck. It can be subtle but even the smallest adjustment can elevate an outfit.
Have a formula for any situation: If you know you'll wear a sleeveless blouse with a cardigan, wide leg pants, and heels every time you go to an event, there's your formula. All you have to do is pick which pieces fit that and pop them on. Check out my What To Wear To A... worksheet to think through other situations you might need a formula for.
Be confident in your true self and your style! Don't worry what other people think. Are you comfortable and happy in the outfit? Great - we should all be so lucky! That's the goal.

If you want a visual reminder, download and print out this checklist. Pop it in your closet or wherever you get dressed to remind you of these points until they become habits.

3 WAYS TO WEAR IT: Button-up Shirt

I love a button up! They're an easy way to feel polished and put together with very little effort, and great for business environments as well as casual get-togethers or just everyday messing about. I firmly believe that they don't need to be boring! You can add a lot of personality and style to them just by changing the neckline and sleeves. Here are three ways I wear this blue and white striped one. Everything about the outfit is the same - jeans, accessories and the French tuck. All that changes is how I've buttoned it up and what I do with the sleeves.