Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about how much my style has shifted over the years — and how I’ve found comfort and joy in letting go of the past and dressing for who I am today. Life keeps moving, bodies change, and what felt right last year (or even last season) might not feel that way anymore.

Today, I’m an active mom to two energetic toddlers, and I also coach and consult in corporate settings — so my wardrobe needs to be as multifaceted as I am. Over the past few years, through two pregnancies and new motherhood, I’ve gained and lost around 100 pounds in total, and my bra size has fluctuated from a small B to a DD and back again. I’ve worn my naturally curly hair long, sported a chin-length bob, and experimented with colors from red to lilac.

Through all this transition, I’ve found that when my outward style reflects my most authentic and joyful self, I feel my best — and that’s when I show up most confidently in every part of my life.

If you’re feeling called to realign your style with your current self and lifestyle, this blog post is for you. Whether that means starting fresh, refining what you already have, or simply finding a practical way forward, I hope this post helps you feel like your best you.

Grounding Concepts for Today’s Most Confidently Dressed You

1. Dress for the you of right now.

It’s okay to store away pieces that belong to a previous chapter of your life — you don’t need clothing staring at you every day if it doesn’t fit your current body or lifestyle. Let your closet reflect who you are today. Keep the memories (and “not today’s body” items) somewhere else — garage, under-bed bins, a storage closet, the kid’s room — anywhere but your everyday dressing space.

2. Invest in yourself — and that doesn’t always mean money.

Personal style is just as much about investing time and thought as it is about buying clothes. Some of the most stylish people I know rely on a tried-and-true uniform or an entirely thrifted wardrobe. The key is to start thinking, exploring, and dreaming about what looking and feeling good means for you — your current body, budget, and lifestyle.

3. Have fun and give yourself grace.

Enjoy this self-exploration! Think of it as playful and low-stakes. If you try a trend or outfit that doesn’t quite work, laugh, learn, and move on. Mistakes are part of the process — and part of the fun.

A Simple 3-Step Guide for Dressing for the YOU of Right Now

Level One: Foundational Pieces — What You Can Confidently Build On

These are the pieces you reach for first. They fit well, make you feel confident, and provide a base for more personalized elements of your wardrobe.

Stick to core colors like black, white, grey, denim, brown, and navy. Some prints (like stripes, leopard, or polka dots) can also act as neutrals if that suits your style.

Must-Have Foundational Basics:

• Tanks, tees, long sleeves, shirts, or bodysuits in solid neutrals
• Jeans you love in a few washes
  (Loose guidance: dark denim for evenings and colder seasons; light/medium for daytime and warm weather)
• Structured, well-fitting pants you can dress up or down
• Leggings, joggers, or track pants
  (Pro tip: Keep these in good condition — no pajama-drawer stuff here!)
• Button-down shirts (white, denim, blue, stripes, or subtle prints) — great as tops or light layers

Style Note:
Monochromatic outfits are an easy way to elevate your look. All black, all brown, or all denim gives a chic, put-together vibe, especially with thoughtfully chosen shoes and accessories.

Everyday Shoes:

• Sandals in good condition (If there’s a sweat imprint on the sole, it’s time to replace them.)
• Clogs, mules, or loafers (My favorites are cow-print clogs — I wear them as a neutral!)
• A versatile boot
• Comfortable sneakers that reflect your personality
• Heels in black, metallic, or a bold color — if they still serve your lifestyle (I personally wear them only for special occasions now.)

The most important thing? These items fit well, make you feel confident, and act as a strong foundation for the rest of your wardrobe.

Level Two: Add Personality to Your Foundation

Now it’s time to layer in pieces with color, texture, pattern, and personality — things that still feel wearable and versatile.

Choose items that spark joy and can be styled in multiple ways.

• A timeless leather jacket
• Vintage tees that reflect your personality
• Jumpsuits or overalls (easy, bold one-and-done looks)
• Cardigans, sweaters, or sweatshirts that elevate a basic look
• Dresses or skirts in solids or prints
• Tops with interesting silhouettes, textures, or layers
• A printed or colorful pair of pants that boosts your confidence

Level Three: The Details That Make It YOU

These are your finishing touches — small but mighty. Think quality over quantity: the pieces you love to wear and that consistently make you feel like you.

• Staple jewelry that reflects your vibe — eclectic, minimalist, bold, artsy, timeless, etc.
• Statement glasses or sunglasses
• Fun or cozy socks
• Hats — even if you’re “not a hat person,” a good baseball cap is clutch for travel, errands, or workouts
• Bandanas, headbands, and other accessories
• Bags that suit your lifestyle and feel like you
  (Designer carryall, trusty backpack, or favorite reusable tote — it all counts if you love it.)

Final Thoughts: Style Is a Journey That Evolves as You Do

Building your personal style isn’t a race — it’s a journey. A great starting point is to seek inspiration online or out in the world. Find people, outfits, and aesthetics that resonate with you and the energy you want to project.

Start by gently releasing pieces that no longer serve you. They belong to a past version of yourself, and it’s okay to store them away or let them go.

Focus first on building a strong foundation that supports the life and body you have right now. Then, add in the pieces that bring you joy and personality, finishing it off with details that reflect your unique style.

Take your time, have fun, and trust the process. Your style will grow with you — and that’s the best part.

Let’s Keep Connecting

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📧 Styling Consultations: Want a customized mood board, shopping list, or personal styling advice? Email danigetsdressed@gmail.com