On this week's episode of Nothing To Wear I had the most uplifting chat with stylist Donny Galella.
He's been helping women get dressed for almost 20 years, and while he shared so many amazing tips and affordable shopping suggestions, what I really took away from the interview was how confidence is at the root of what we're all seeking from our clothes.
He styles both celebrities and 'everyday women' and said the common thread between all his clients is everyone, no matter their job or income or lifestyle, is seeking the same end goal — to feel fabulous in what they wear.
It was reassuring to hear that A-listers have hangups, too, and that we all tell ourselves that we 'cant wear that' or 'can't shop there'.
Watch: What are you wearing? Post continues after video.
Inspired by our chat (which I highly recommend you listen to, it's equal parts helpful as it is inspiring), I'm sharing the go-to staples I reach for when I want to feel confident and at-ease.
A statement accessory.
Donny made an excellent point on the podcast. I was wearing a simple white tee and plain grey bottoms, but that morning before dashing out the door I chucked on a chunky gold chain. He said that was the first thing he noticed when we sat down together. I always feel like I've made extra effort when I wear accessories and lovely earrings or a fabulous necklace takes less than a minute to put on.
TRY:
Lovisa Waterproof Gold Plated Stainless Steel Chunky Fob Necklace, $32.99
Image: Lovisa.
Pull & Bear Bendable Necklace, $21.99
Image: The Iconic.
Commonry Alena Organic Necklace, $129.95
Image: Myer.
A shirt dress.
I have endometriosis and I never know when I'll be surprised by a delightful flare. When it happens the last thing I can think about is putting an outfit together, so I always reach for a shirt dress. It's a 'one and done' outfit, looks smart, and they're comfy around the belly area.
TRY:
Basque Recycled Poly Button Front Shirt Dress, $179.95.
Image: Myer.
&me Animal Print Long Sleeve Shirt Dress, $30.
Image: Big W.
City Chic Elly Shirt Dress, $139.95.
Image: The Iconic.
Well made flats.
A pair of flat shoes you love and are well made so you can virtually live in them will revolutionise your wardrobe. In summer it's nice sandals for me, and in winter it's some form of a more closed-in style, usually a loafer. They're versatile and give off polished vibes (and they don't have to be overly expensive or designer, either).
TRY:
Target Genuine Suede Loafers, $40.
Image: Target.
Midas Eatit Navy Ivory Leather Loafers, $189.95.
Image: Midas.
Lana Wilkinson Spencer Patent Leather Loafer, $249.95.
Image: The Iconic.
A structured blazer.
A blazer isn't revolutionary in any way, but when I'm unsure of a dress code or my day consists of various appointments and meetings I feel like a great blazer over jeans and a tee smartens up the entire look. They also look great with a midi or maxi skirt — blazers don't need to be saved for corporate or dressy settings.
TRY:
Decjuba Inez Asymmetric Blazer, $149.95.
Image: Myer.
Belle & Bloom Big Brother Talk Blazer, $229.95.
Image: The Iconic.
M.N.G Erba Blazer, $179.95.
Image: The Iconic.
A fun handbag.
You know what always fits, is never uncomfortable so you don't fantasise about getting home and ripping it off, and makes a statement with zero effort? A fun handbag. I don't mean it has to be furry or sparkly or covered in bag charms — just an interesting shape or unexpected colour can jazz up the most simple ensemble.
TRY:
Laura Jones Premium Mini Grab Tote, $79.99.
Image: Strand Bags.
Peta and Jain Jami Slouch Bag, $89.95.
Image: The Iconic.
Naked Vice The Celeste Cocoa Bag, $199.95.
Image: The Iconic.
Feature Image: Supplied/The Iconic.
