When the Clothes Don’t Matter
Out of my window flying to my home country Brazil
I have been MIA for a hot minute and it feels so good to be back here on the blog. I love writing in this space because of the closeness we have developed over time. You have become a safe place where I can share not only my fashion ideas but also the feelings and reflections that often go beyond clothes.
If you follow me on social media you know that on Labor Day I got a call from my stepmother telling me my dad had a stroke and was being transferred to the ICU in Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro. I left everything behind, rescheduled my clients, and flew to Brazil to be with my family.
My dad went through surgery and everything unfolded completely out of plan. In the middle of the chaos I found myself wearing the same black top for five days straight, washing and drying it at night so I could wear it again the next morning. The hospital was too far from home and I did not want to leave with everything going on. That is when the realization came to me. Sometimes the clothes do not matter.
To be precise, that was the exact top!
I am writing this now from my kitchen counter in Massachusetts, back at home. And I am so grateful to be able to say that my dad is doing well. He is at home recovering from his surgery, cared for by my dear younger sister who lives in Portugal but flew back as I was leaving to continue giving him the care he needs. He is stronger every day and for that we are deeply thankful.
That was a few streets over the hospital where my dad had surgery - Ipanema RJ
Anyways, back to the clothes talk. Working with women in different stages of their lives has taught me that a wardrobe is always a reflection of the person who owns it. And sometimes clothes are simply not the priority. We live, we make choices every day, and we juggle so many plates at once. If the wardrobe plate falls for a little while nothing truly terrible happens. Let’s be honest, the world will not end because of a bad hair day or an outfit that feels less than perfect. What matters more is giving yourself grace.
Building a wardrobe takes time and self-understanding. It is something that happens over time and should bring you enjoyment in the process. Even for me as a stylist there are days when I cannot keep up. My advice is to work on your closet with love and with intention and to move at a pace that feels right for you. To support that journey, here are five simple tips that might help you connect in a deeper way with your closet and your style.
1. Let go of what you never touch
It could be gorgeous, it could be expensive, but if you do not wear it, it becomes nothing more than a distraction. These pieces add to decision fatigue and make getting dressed harder than it needs to be. Life is already full of challenges, your wardrobe should not be one of them. Simplify your closet so that every piece supports you instead of standing in your way.
2. Have a full length mirror
How can you really know if you have nailed the look if you cannot see yourself from head to toe. This may sound simple, but it is essential. A full length mirror allows you to see proportions, balance, and the full effect of your outfit. If you do not have one yet, my advice is to get the mirror today.
3. Notice what always ends up in the laundry hamper
The pieces you find yourself washing over and over are the ones you truly wear. Pay attention to them. Ask yourself why they work for you. Is it comfort, color, fit, or versatility. Use those answers as a guide for future purchases, and look for ways to elevate those same qualities. When you shop with that awareness, you make sure your new pieces will actually be worn and loved.
4. Keep your color choices cohesive
Sometimes we buy something out of excitement only to realize later that the color does not flow with the rest of our closet. That piece ends up sitting unworn, leaving us wondering why. It is like trying to mix scallops with a hamburger bun, both delicious but not meant to go together. Before swiping your card, pause and think of at least three ways you can style that new piece with what you already own. If you can do that, it will earn its place in your wardrobe.
5. Stay true to who you are
You can wear a head to toe amazing outfit, but if it is not you, it will never feel authentic. When your closet reflects who you are, even in the most chaotic life moments, you will still feel grounded and good in your own skin. Remember, it is never about the clothes, it is always about you.
If you feel this is the right time to get professional support, I would love to be your partner on the journey of creating a closet that truly fits you and your life. And if you enjoyed this blog, feel free to share it with a friend. It means so much and helps me continue growing both this space and my business. Thank you for being here.
Ana Harris - Personal Stylist
Color Analysis - Wardrobe Styling
Studio in Fall River, MA - Serving clients from Rhode Island, Boston, and beyond.
