Dress Like An Artist
Because Your Life Is Your Art and Self-respect is Everything
Welcome to Older and Weiser, where I share my approach to making your style magnetic. If you're new here, settle down—this isn't just about shopping. It’s a love letter to every aspect of your radiance and a how-to guide of wisdom gleaned from my 35 years as a fashion stylist at publications like Vogue, Vanity Fair, and Interview magazines. I want to change how you see fashion so you can expand into greatness.
Let’s discuss today’s topic: dressing for profound personal expression that reflects your deepest level of creativity. Feel free to comment and give feedback as you read; I am eager to hear your perspective.
This year, I am again tuning into earthy neutrals, classic prints, harmonious color palettes, and an unusual way of putting everything together that feels deep and magical.
As I mature, I see a remarkable loosening of the siren call of conspicuous fashion—with the recognition that although entertaining, it is ultimately a form of grasping for attention love that only applies when I am in a headspace of avoidance. Those days are blessedly behind me.
Why is The Row's trademark simple, loose-fitting look enthralling so many fashion editors? Is it finally time to acknowledge that simplicity (in your personal hero shapes) is the most flattering design ethos and, ultimately, the easiest to transform for creativity and longevity? Let’s first examine why women yearn to look ‘cute’ in the first place.
They lack personal power or are afraid of the consequences of their power.
They feel uninspired and ill at ease with their natural beauty.
A minimalist dressing mode can read ‘boring’ if not done with enthusiasm. I have many urban-dwelling clients who immediately proclaim: no ruffles or frills, solid colors, subtle prints, and clean lines only — and I want to keep my edge. As I dig deep into wardrobe needs, I see their desire to enhance inner strength while looking to match that grit on the outside.
The big idea here is to convey depth of character and humanity. New age designers (thought leaders) Khaite, Jaime Haller, Attersee, Anine Bing, Loulou Studio, and Toteme have reawakened a warrior spirit that does not rely on smoke and mirrors. Jenni Kanye reminds us that natural beauty is the baseline we seek. Stay with me if this thinking resonates with you, and I’ll take you further.
Now, let’s address this seismic shift and how you can participate. No one is left out!
The formula is easier than you think. It brims with the attractive allure of frankness and authenticity. It promotes activity and stillness in equal measure. Who else wants to be dynamic and calm to meet the demands of their day?
The timing is ideal, as Pre-fall collections consistently focus on pared-down magnetic sophistication. Before you shop, take a good look at your wardrobe. Edit down to your essential building blocks—the shapes, colors, and materials you need to comfort your body and broadcast your spirit. Aim for less volume and more focus.
Sell, store, or donate what does not fit your highest vision using Pinterest or screenshots to track your thoughts. Keep accessories and favorite items that provide spice, making your style uniquely yours.
Note what shapes and colors give you the most confidence and decide to only invest in those. Pro tip: Do not buy clothes that are too small. If the garment’s shape is correct, tailoring will be unnecessary or minimal. If you lose weight, add a belt. If you expand a bit, you're safe. Enjoy your life without constraint!
Now comes the magic of styling. Should you wear a slim fit or a loose fit? Is it tucked or untucked? Cuffed or long? Loafers, boots, sneakers, or a heel? Step back and take an approach. It's about perfection; it's about finding the moment you feel free — unencumbered by old stories — modern and present.
Make sure you consider everything, giving yourself a holistic view. Your hair, beauty, accessories, layers for weather considerations, the setting, your goals for the day!
We’re shooting for a wardrobe that turns your closet into your creative studio. With less noise, hitting or even starting new trends will be more accessible.
Bottom Line? When every item in your wardrobe is bespoke to you, it allows you to focus on the big picture—how you want to feel and what you want to communicate. Sure, you will still need a tweak here and there to combine the day’s winning formula but don't let it get you down. Note what you are missing, add it to your shopping list, and enjoy what I consider fun: the artistry and divine act of creating your story.
Are you still feeling lost and in need of my help? For personalized shopping, I invite you to schedule a time for a closet revamp & seasonal package. Finding the time can be difficult, so here are three options that might make it more doable.
1. Closet Edit: Many clients meet with me for 30 minutes at the beginning of the day to assess our goals. Then, I work solo in their closet while they head to work or go about their day. We can check in for another 30 minutes mid-day (in-person or via FaceTime) and then for 1 hour to review what I've done at the end of the day. I'm happy to work this way to make fit into your schedule easier!
2. Online Shopping Session: We start with a one-hour Zoom call to assess your needs. Then, I will compile looks via Google Slides with images and links to purchase each item. You can review the slides and make any requested edits by email. We can do a second 30-minute call to refine the direction of the Slides, and I'll provide a final selection to you. This is the most time-efficient service I offer!
3. In-Person Shopping Session: We start with a 1-hour Zoom to assess your needs. I will then make a shopping itinerary. Going to the shops and trying things on should take 3 hours, and you can expect a comprehensive follow-up of all the items we discuss during this exploratory outing that teaches you how to shop better.
Finding the time can be challenging, but I am happy to find creative solutions to work within your schedule! Contact me to learn more with a complementary 20-minute Zoom to strategize a bespoke package for you.
With Love,
Lisa XO
The closet as a creative studio! Pure brilliance. I just love the way you relate style to creative expression. Gets me every time! Thank you Lisa!! ❤️❤️
Yes, there's so much beauty in simplicity!