A stylist who doesn’t feel like getting dressed?

It’s hard for me to admit, but it’s true. I’m not perfect. I’m definitely a Type-A high achiever who used to write on her resume “highly self-motivated quick learner” yet at the same time I’m constantly coming to terms with the fact that I’m not perfect!

And what a good exercise that is!

Have you ever done a presentation or worked on a project that you thought after the fact “‘I wish I had done that this way” only to have others praise your work?

Perhaps you’ve taken it a step further and reviewed said presentation or project after the fact and realized “Hey, I actually did do a really great job!”

Can you relate?

If you can, you’re a perfectionist on some level. And it’s pretty hard to be perfect all the time, isn’t it?

It’s so draining!

I’m pretty sure as women, we’re all perfectionists on some level – taking it all on, doing it all ourselves… for everyone else… and rarely asking for help.

The thing is, there is beauty in this. Beauty in realizing that your flaws are actually your unique assets. They set you apart. What would Cindy Crawford be without her mole? Beyonce without her bootiliciousness? I think you get the picture!

How about a stylist who doesn’t feel like getting dressed in the morning?

I will be the first to admit that there are many days I would rather stay in my favorite Lululemon yoga pants or robe instead of having to plan an outfit and get out the door to face the day. And if I don’t have to head out the door for anything, I will give myself the space to be comfortable.

Though, the inner debutante in me does come out. I will admit that as well. I prefer to be pulled together. It makes me feel better about myself. It makes me feel more myself. Rarely will you see me leave the house without makeup. Even for a workout. I can’t help it! It’s part of who I am. If you always see me pulled together and polished, it’s because it’s how I feel most confident.

But since I’m like you and I don’t have a team of people doing my hair and makeup in the morning, I do the best with what I have. I’ve learned tips and tricks over the years. And they make all the difference.

When I say ‘throw it on and go, I really mean that.

You’re busy. You don’t have time for a whole fuss, but you do care about how you present yourself to the world.

My tricks for getting out the door on those mornings when I’m feeling more like yoga pants and a good book? A quick makeup routine with my trusty makeup bag staples, my amazing hair dryer (the most I’ve ever spent on one, but worth every penny!) and my uniform.

Uniform? Yes, I’m a tee-shirt and jeans girl at heart. So, my uniform is a variation on that each day. It changes depending on which pants I want to wear – straight leg, skinny or trouser? It changes depending on how formal the occasion – tee shirt, blouse or jacket? It changes depending on the weather – hot, lukewarm or cold? It changes depending on my mood – blue, red, pink, navy or purple? And it changes depending simply on my accessories!

Accessories are key! A look can completely change it’s attitude depending on the accessories. And they’re the simplest thing to add!

So, what does it’ come down to when you’re not feeling it yet you’ve got to get out the door? Your uniform and some accessories! Simple as that. Please don’t make it more complicated. And if you have yet to discover your uniform or want to add more variety and fun, that’s where an expert comes into play. Trust me, it’s taken me years to get to this point of comfort and ease with my style and my unique assets. Especially considering all those mornings of ‘UGH!’ with my wardrobe. Do yourself a favor and shorten your learning curve!

My unique assets I’ve had to learn to love? My hair (which wasn’t always curly) and my bum (which was definitely always bubbly). And I still have my moments with both! We’re always learning.

Where is the fun in being perfect, anyway?

What’s your go-to uniform?

Catherine Cassidy

Catherine Cassidy founded U*styled to empower women to fully live a life in STYLE! She works with women transitioning and upleveling in their lives to define their Personal Style. The Power of Style newsletter is published once a week to share hints and tips, fashion trends and inspire women with the tools to live in Style. Sign up for your subscription today at www.ustyled.com.

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