From Finance to Fashion: My Personal Style Journey
Have you ever felt lost in your own wardrobe? I've been there, and today, I want to share my journey from a finance professional stuck in a style rut to a personal stylist helping others unlock their style potential.
The Corporate Conundrum
For 15 years, I navigated the world of finance, where my wardrobe was as structured as a spreadsheet. The turning point came during a nine-month assignment in Bangkok. Living out of a suitcase, my wardrobe shrank to a sea of black, blue, and navy corporate wear, with a lone black maxi dress for weekends.
Returning to Melbourne, I faced a stark realisation: I had lost touch with my personal style. The anxiety of dressing for social events and the daily struggle of putting together outfits became overwhelming. It was time for a change.
The Style Awakening
Driven by a desire for self-improvement, I enrolled in a personal styling course at the Australian Style Institute. This decision was transformative. I discovered that personal style isn't just about clothes—it's about how those clothes make you feel and how they empower you to show up in the world.
One of the most liberating lessons was realising that style isn't innate—it's a skill that can be learned and mastered. The Self-Development Connection
As I delved deeper into personal styling, I recognised its profound connection to self-development. Your style should evolve as you grow personally and professionally. It's about dressing for the person you're becoming, not just the person you are today.
Discovering My Style Words
Through reflection and wardrobe analysis, I identified my style words: minimalist, contemporary, comfortable, with a sprinkle of edginess. These words now guide my fashion choices and help me curate a wardrobe that truly reflects who I am.
Finding my personal style changed more than just my wardrobe:
My confidence soared
Getting dressed became a joy rather than a stress
I felt like I was authentically expressing myself
I discovered a new creative outlet
Remember, finding your style is a journey, not a destination. Here are some steps to start:
Assess your current wardrobe
Reflect on what truly resonates with you
Be patient—your style will evolve with you
Identify your own style words
Embrace your unique style
Style is personal, powerful, and ever-evolving. It has the potential to positively impact your life and well-being in ways you might never have imagined. Whether you're looking to refresh your look or completely reinvent yourself, remember that your unique style is waiting to be uncovered.
Your wardrobe should be a source of confidence and joy, not stress. So, take that first step on your style journey today. Who knows? You might just discover a whole new side of yourself in the process.