The Best Way To Break Up With Your Go-To Pieces

By Brian Maynor

 

I know they are our favorite pieces for a reason, but sometimes we rely on them a little too much so they end up being all we ever ‘go to.’

It’s definitely comforting to know you have items in your closet you don’t have to think about pulling together because they are your grab-and-go essentials, but have you ever stopped to think those very pieces are holding you back?

Here are a few tips on how to break-up with your wardrobe standards and find new ones that you’ll actually wear:

1.    Change doesn’t have to be drastic. Whenever we are feeling bored, suffocated or just in need of change how many times do you run blindly to the polar opposite of what you currently have? Most of us fall prey to this knee-jerk reaction more often than not and honestly how often has it worked out?

The next time you’re looking for inspiration or something new, instead of running to the salon for a completely new cut and color or buying pieces that are nothing you would ever normally wear, take a second to think about what you’re really looking for and how to find it in things you will actually use.

2.    Amp up accessories. While accessories are an easy, and affordable, way to change up your look, how effective are they when they sit in a drawer never looked at, let alone worn?

Instead of just going for opposites, which turn out to be bold, wacky or complicated pieces you never wear, look at the pieces you wear all the time and figure out what you will realistically wear. Maybe the answer is as simple as investing more in a particular style of earrings, or stacking bracelets. A lot of people who work in conservative industries but like color fall back on scarves, but are confused on the multitude ways you can incorporate them into your outfit.

3.    Shake up your shoes. I am the first person to say when you find a shoe that works for your aesthetic and is comfortable you should stick with it, but that doesn’t mean just buying the same pair over and over again. I’m sure the shoes you live in come in a variety of colors and styles, so you should feel comfortable testing the waters with them.

It’s easy to get trapped in the black or nude rude and avoid colorful shoes when dressing for a serious environment, but it can be done. The fact that shoes no longer have to match your outfit, or your bag or your belt should be liberating, but for a lot of people it’s terrifying because their foundation of knowing what works has shifted.

Craving a new look is normal, and part of expanding and defining your personal style, but sometimes the desire for something different overpowers the logic behind it. If you want to make successful changes you actually like and will stick with first you should understand why you like something and feel comfortable wearing it all the time. Once you have that piece of information then you should hit Pinterest and other social media sites to search for inspiration on new ideas on how to wear them before hitting the stores. It’s a longer process, but it will save you money and help ensure the pieces you buy you actually wear.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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