Peace in Elevated Styling

Last night I hosted Jenna Matthews in The Studio.

WOW!!!

Jenna is a local wellness designer, whose Personal Styling skills graced the Studio floors last night for nearly two hours! I love when passion meets function. Jenna’s enthusiasm for clothes, accessories, and ensembles match her passion for helping women feel great. Her love translates to helping women love their bodies and love their look. Can we get more of that EVERY DAY, please? She showed us how to elevate our personal style with subtle changes to our wardrobes.

Here are the top takeaways from last night’s event, along with a few products that might serve your closet well. Let me know what you think in the comments! Share the peace of mind you received from Jenna’s incredible insights!

Know your colors

I have seen videos floating around on Instagram in which a model stands still and someone flips through a pallet of fabric colors. The person’s face responds to each color so differently. It’s incredible to watch the transformation. Last night, we got to do this! I learned that I have an “Autumn Palette.” Who knew?!!? I have been told I look good in green, but thanks to Jenna, I know exactly which greens works best! The best part about this practice is how surprised many ladies were by their results. We learned about colors we never would have considered wearing before. Such fun!

change it up with a shoe or bag

Jenna spent a good bit of time changing up outfits. She would start with a sweater and jeans, then add different jackets, belts, or accessories and VIOLA! The transformation in her look was astounding. At one point, someone shouted, “She’s a wizard!” and we all laughed because it was TRUE. Jenna made a casual walk through the grocery store turn into night on the town. Jenna suggested locking in your staple pieces, then investing in great bags, shoes, and jewels to transform your everyday looks. All great advice.

balance the sightline

We took time to find our waists! What a project! Jenna showed us where sleeves, belts, or blouses should hit our bodies, drawing attention to where we need it most. She also showed us how certain clothing can make us drown in fabric, while other times we don’t have enough of what we need. She knows when to add a vest, remove bulk, tuck a top, or change up the “ankle cleavage” (yes, that’s a thing!) For a well-needed tuck, she recommended using a band under our clothes that I never heard of before, but, WOW! What a game-changer! Check this band out for yourself.

Check out consignment shops

It’s fun to think that some of the most interesting, exciting clothes out there are sitting in consignment shops. Jenna shared which shops in our area stock incredible inventory, including Goodwill and the Salvation Army. The bottom line is this: unnatural fibers don’t break down. We have landfills everywhere filled with CLOTHES we’ve discarded. Shopping second-hand clothes make a difference for the planet. PLUS, they guarantee a unique look that speaks to you and your style. There’s a pretty good chance no one else will have the same sweater as you if you’re reusing something from 1994. And thanks to a little creativity, we can style something old to look brand new. LOVE THIS. Below are some of Jenna’s top recs in our area (click the links to check out their websites):

• Vida Beale, West Chester
• Bella Boutique, Exton
• Christine’s, West Chester
• Style Encore, Exton
• Wings for Success, Exton
• Goodwill, Phoenixville

try less black

I think black has been the universal neutral I learned about growing up. “Pair it with black pants!” was a norm when I started to learn about fashion and getting dressed in the morning. But, Jenna had more to say about black. She suggested that not everyone looks great in black. It all comes down to your tones and coloring. Other colors can behave as neutrals and other colors likely look better on you. So, that little black dress? Maybe it’s not for everyone after all! I learned that I like to dress a bit edgy (or at least I’m trying to), so why not utilize some funkier colors? I’m pumped! Here are some edgier pieces that can wipe out my “go-to” pieces that, frankly, have become boring to me. These edgier pieces that can replace my little black jacket, black boots, and black sweater!

While Jenna’s workshop is over, her passion and expertise are still available to you. Find her on Instagram @DressMeJenna or email her at DressMeJenna@gmail.com. She can edit your closet, personal shop, and teach you how to shine. I can’t wait to see the peace of mind she brings to you. She’ll elevate your style in a way you never imagined possible.

Share your thoughts and experience in the comments! And as always, share the peace!