23. April 2026
Getting changed
Is it time for a change?
I’ve felt a real need to get changed recently. Not sure if its inspiration from the 80’s theme that’s seeping through this season – boy pants, neon colours and oversized everything or whether it’s just about wanting to make a noise having felt muted this past year. So I’ve changed a very, very long standing hair colour (muted blonde!). If you know me, you’ll know it wasn't a rash decision, I researched very carefully and took a trusted recommendation for a new stylist who lived up to 100% of my expectations (thank you @hairbykimberlymills).
Why change? Or is it indeed not about change and more about not covering up who we really are? Not entering the work wardrobe, not dressing up for people we haven’t seen or maybe want to see again. I’ve recently started a temporary marketing role in a very non-corporate, everyone works from home and in relaxed ‘wear’ team. I haven’t felt the need to fit in at all, I’ve been myself, trying on stand out different items from an 80’s esque look one day to 70’s the next. It's mde me happy.
So why dress as yourself? I’ve recently read two books, Charlie Porter’s What Artists Wear, and James Clear’s ‘Atomic Habits’ (which I found potentially life changing by the way for anyone trying to kick a chocolate habit or who wants to get fitter).
Charlie Porter describes tens of artists and how each are iconic because of their clothing as a feature. He’s clear from the start of the book that what the artists choose to wear isn't necessarily intended as a statement, but a way of being more true to themselves that allows them to work to the best of their ability. From Barbara Hepworth, who worked in very practical outfits – mainly boiler suits in different colours to French artist Yves Klein who could only work in suits, including tuxedos. James Clear has been successful in helping people to change their behaviour by starting with habits that can only be maintained if they reflect your identity or the identity you want to adopt. And if your clothes don’t sit comfortably with who you want to be….
Want to start? If you don't know your style personality, spend a few minutes exploring through an online test. It’s a great way of starting a conversation with yourself about what clothes make you happy and what don’t. And more importantly why you wear those that don’t float your boat. There’s lots of food for thought I can give you.
Kat Deeley was interviewed on Stella live last week – she so clearly identified what clothes made her who she is and why they made her happy – vintage, stand out shoulders, bold and ‘look at me’. I also saw Yasmin LeBon who had just died her eyebrows in an 80’s wanderlust moment too, quiet and unassuming, she sat there comfortably in the muted classic clothes she clearly felt comfortable in. Two successful women who know their identities and what makes them happy.
If there’s anytime to be you, it has to be now.