G8 First ladies sign a commemorative canoe at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto on Friday June 25, 2010. Left to right are Madam Callista Mutharika, Mrs. Svetlana Medvedeva, Mrs. Ban Soon-taek, Mrs. Laureen Harper, Mrs. Nabuko Kan, Mrs. Geertrui Van Rompuy, Madame Patience Goodluck Jonathan, and Mrs. Margarida Barosso.

Wear Out There: Dress for 2016

It’s a new year, fresh, untouched and full of opportunities. With unlimited ways to make your mark in 2016, you may be setting goals to hone your direction. While exploring your personal style may not have made the list, now is the perfect time to reflect on your current wardrobe and needs. There is no better tool to help yourself attain your goals than a polished appearance that truly reflects who you want to be.
Whether you want to succeed at work, develop a new relationship, or pursue your passion, the right clothes can help others view you in a positive and favourable way. So dream big, and use fashion as your ally to take charge of your direction. This is your year, Waterloo Region, so make it count!
How you look, and more importantly, how you feel about yourself often has a direct impact on action. The more self-assured you feel, the more likely you are to reach for that promotion, ask someone on a date, or try something new. While confidence does come from within, attractive clothes, a stylish haircut and natural makeup can help set you on a path for success, each and every day. As celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe says, “style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.”
The first step in finding a style that will work for you is to determine your style personality. Are you the romantic type? Do you prefer classic pieces, creative elements, or natural fabrics? Take a quiz online or enlist the help of a professional style coach to help you quickly identify which pieces you most respond to. This is a necessary step in developing a style that reflects your unique being.
Next, identify what your style must say to help you achieve your goals. For example, if you want a promotion in 2016, how must you walk, talk, look and act to make this happen? You may want a look that is authoritative, sophisticated, professional and polished. Perhaps there are other positive attributes more important to your profession. Jot down what your ideal image is and get to work. Take stock of your current wardrobe and fill any holes with pieces you adore.
By combining these exercises, you will develop a style you love, and that speaks to others. This becomes your personal brand, an important tool in helping you to attain your goals. There is a lot of power in how you dress, so make it work for you this year. Prepare for changes, both big and small, and be confident in your abilities. Your style means something, and I can’t wait to see you thrive.