Have you fallen into a fashion rut? Always reach for the same outfits for work, or play or a night out with friends? Maybe you’re curious about how the latest fashion trends might look on you (hello, colored denim!) Here are 3 easy tips to help you venture outside of your (fashion) comfort zone.
#1 Bring a Friend
Ask a friend to pick out “one surprising outfit or accessory.” Your friends know your ‘go-to’ style and can help you expand it. One of my friends always makes a beeline for black sweaters. And blouses. And dresses. And pants. You get the picture. I’m not sure why she is drawn to dark colors, because she has knock-out figure. So whenever we go shopping, I make it my mission to hand her something bold. A red scarf. Or a sparkly tank top. Or an emerald-colored bauble. It’s our little joke and has become a highlight of shopping together.
#2 Ask a Salesperson:
Enlist your own personal shopper (aka the fashionistas that work at your favorite stores). I like to ask a salesperson to “surprise me.” Sometimes it’s a perfect match. Other times, not so much. But it is always fun, and it gives me great new ideas. On a recent trip to Max Studios, the salesperson suggested something I affectionately call “The Peacock Dress.” While it was festive and fun, I couldn’t shake the notion that I looked like a cross between a ‘20s-era flapper and a peacock. I decided it was a tad too far outside my comfort zone, but I did fall in love with a flowing blouse that was also tucked into my room.
#3 Try a New Store
Consider adding one new store to your ‘must visit’ list. Maybe you’ve shied away from a particular store because you feared it was “too young” for you or “too outdoorsy” or “too fill-in-the-blank.” On your next trip, vow to try something new. At Woodburn Company Stores, we added 26 new stores last year including: Disney Store Outlet, Helzberg Diamonds Outlet, ASICS, Janie & Jack, Aerosoles, Crocs and Charlotte Russe. Have you checked ‘em out?
Yours in fashion adventures,
Sunshine
P.S. Maybe next time, I’ll get the courage to ruffle a few feathers and take home that peacock dress.
