How to Effectively Use Pinterest to Elevate Your Style
When I begin working with a client, one of the first things I ask is for them to share their Pinterest style board—or, if they haven’t created one yet, to start one from scratch. Pinterest is an incredible tool for visual inspiration, but I often see clients struggle to use it effectively as a means of defining or elevating their personal style. Many come to me feeling frustrated because they can’t seem to translate their vision from the board into real life. They’ve gathered images that they love, but somehow their personal style remains elusive.
In today’s post, I’m sharing my top tips for creating a Pinterest board that will not only help you define your style, but also make it easier to bring that vision to life in a practical, achievable way.
When I begin working with a client, one of the first things I ask is for them to share their Pinterest style board or create one from scratch. However, I often see clients struggle to use Pinterest effectively as a tool to define or elevate their personal style. Many come to me feeling frustrated because they can’t seem to translate their vision from the board into real life. In today’s post, I’m sharing my top tips for creating a Pinterest board that will not only help you define your style, but also make it easier to bring that vision to life in a practical, achievable way.
Mistakes I Commonly See
Let’s start with some common mistakes I often see when people are creating their style boards. Many boards end up overflowing with images of celebrities, influencers, off-duty models, and outfit flat lays. While these can certainly be inspiring, they should only play a small role in your mood board. When your board is dominated by these types of images, it becomes one-dimensional, setting unrealistic expectations and leading to overwhelm - often resulting in a sense of defeat rather than inspiration.
Why Doesn’t This Work?
Everyone’s body type and personal preferences are unique, so trying to replicate someone else's style directly is often a recipe for disappointment. What looks great on someone else might not feel right for your body, especially if you prefer different silhouettes, cuts, fabrics, or colors. Ultimately, it won’t feel authentic to you.
Another common issue I see with Pinterest boards is the lack of depth and variety. When boards are filled only with outfits and images of people, they miss out on the many other elements that can truly elevate your style. To build a more well-rounded and personal style board, it’s important to incorporate a wider range of visual inspiration. Keep reading to discover how you can enrich your Pinterest board to reflect a style that's uniquely yours.
What to Do Instead
Now that we’ve covered what to avoid, how do you create a board that truly reflects your style vision? Here’s what I tell my clients: the sky’s the limit! If you need to start fresh, go for it. Begin by pinning anything that inspires you—colors, textures, places, objects—the possibilities are endless. The goal is to build a collection of visuals that resonate with your personal aesthetic and spark new ideas. Need some inspiration to get started? Check out my Pinterest page, or browse the list of ideas below:
•Your favorite artwork
•Home interiors
•Architecture
•Landscapes
•Places that you are inspired by
•Spaces that you are inspired by
•Nature
•Patterns
•Color Palettes
•Textures/Fabrics
•Jewelry
•Makeup
•Vintage Fashion Eras
•Shoes
Developing and gathering the right pieces may take time, so be patient with the process. Over time, you'll start to notice recurring themes and patterns within your board. Once you identify these common threads, you can begin shopping and styling according to your curated multidimensional style. If you're still struggling to bring your vision to life, that's where I come in. I specialize in helping clients both in the Pittsburgh area and virtually anywhere. Visit my contact page if you'd like to work together.
Xx
Hannah
The Iconic Cheetah Print Fur Coat: Current and Vintage Selections
My absolute favorite way to stay warm and chic in the winter is with the addition of a cheetah print coat. I love them so much that I’ve accumulated two. Many years ago, I purchased one from Zara, and it’s been my go-to for countless snow days and freezing temperatures ever since. I’ve worn it over everything - from yoga outfits to jeans and sweaters, to dresses - proving its versatility and timeless style. Last summer, while thrifting, I stumbled upon the perfect vintage cheetah print coat. The moment I laid eyes on it, I knew I had to have it. It’s now a staple in my winter wardrobe, bringing me so much joy on the coldest, snowiest days. Today, I’ve rounded up both current and vintage cheetah print coats, each one as stylish as the last.
My absolute favorite way to stay warm and chic in the winter is with the addition of a cheetah print coat. I love them so much that I’ve accumulated two. Many years ago, I purchased one from Zara, and it’s been my go-to for countless snow days and freezing temperatures ever since. I’ve worn it over everything - from yoga outfits to jeans and sweaters, to dresses - proving its versatility and timeless style. Last summer, while thrifting, I stumbled upon the perfect vintage cheetah print coat. The moment I laid eyes on it, I knew I had to have it. It’s now a staple in my winter wardrobe, bringing me so much joy on the coldest, snowiest days. Today, I’ve rounded up both current and vintage cheetah print coats, each one as stylish as the last.
Coats Under $200
Mid Range Coats
Splurge Options
Vintage & Second-Hand Selection
The cheetah print coat is the perfect way to stay warm while adding a touch of chic to your winter wardrobe. Whether it’s a timeless vintage find or a modern piece, there are endless ways to style it. Embrace the cold in style with one of these cozy, versatile coats!
Xx
Hannah
Favorite Fashion Brands of 2024
As a personal stylist, I’ve spent countless hours this past year shopping - both in-store and online - with clients, helping them find pieces that feel like a perfect fit for their unique style. Outside of client sessions, I’m constantly exploring new shops, discovering emerging brands, and trying on pieces to ensure they’re a perfect fit. This has led me to discover exciting new labels and reconnect with some old favorites. I’m excited to share a curated list of the brands that both my clients and I have fallen in love with in 2024. Whether you're on the hunt for wardrobe staples, statement pieces, or something a little outside the box, these are the places I’ve turned to for inspiration and style essentials.
As a personal stylist, I’ve spent countless hours this past year shopping - both in-store and online - with clients, helping them find pieces that feel like a perfect fit for their unique style. Outside of client sessions, I’m constantly exploring new shops, discovering emerging brands, and trying on pieces to ensure they’re a perfect fit. This has led me to discover exciting new labels and reconnect with some old favorites. I’m excited to share a curated list of the brands that both my clients and I have fallen in love with in 2024. Whether you're on the hunt for wardrobe staples, statement pieces, or something a little outside the box, these are the places I’ve turned to for inspiration and style essentials.
Favorite Mall Brands
Favorite Brands with Extended Sizing
Favorite Places for Petites
Favorite Unique Brands
Favorite Jewelry
Favorite Places for Shoes
As 2024 comes to a close, I am so grateful for the opportunity to help my clients discover pieces that truly reflect their personal style. The brands on this list have not only stood out for their design and quality, but also for how they’ve helped elevate my clients’ everyday wardrobes. Whether you're looking for the perfect staple or a statement piece to make a lasting impression, I hope these recommendations inspire your style journey in the year ahead. Here's to finding new favorites, embracing fresh looks, and evolving your wardrobe with pieces that feel uniquely you. If you are looking for personalized recommendations that meet your budget and needs this upcoming year, you can reach out via email or through the contact page of my website.
XO
Hannah
Letting Go of Clothes That No Longer Serve You
Letting Go of Clothes That No Longer Serve You: A Step Toward Personal Growth and Confidence
Letting go of clothes that no longer serve you is more than just a decluttering exercise; it is a powerful way to reset your relationship with both your wardrobe and your life. We all know the feeling of holding onto items "just in case," or because of the memories or emotions tied to them. But what if I told you that keeping these clothes can actually be holding you back, not just in terms of your closet, but in terms of your energy, confidence, and personal growth?
Letting go of clothes that no longer serve you is more than just a decluttering exercise; it is a powerful way to reset your relationship with both your wardrobe and your life. We all know the feeling of holding onto items "just in case," or because of the memories or emotions tied to them. But what if I told you that keeping these clothes can actually be holding you back, not just in terms of your closet, but in terms of your energy, confidence, and personal growth?
As a personal stylist who believes in dressing for confidence and self-expression, I want to share why it's so important to release the clothes that don’t serve you and how doing so can create space for something far better: clarity, energy, and a wardrobe that reflects your true self.
The Hidden Cost of Holding Onto Clothes
We’ve all been guilty of keeping items in our closet that we don’t wear, don’t like, or don’t fit anymore. Some might hold sentimental value, while others are just leftovers from a previous phase in life. But have you ever stopped to consider the effect these clothes are having on you - not just physically, but energetically?
When you hold onto clothes that don’t align with who you are or who you’re becoming, you invite stagnant energy into your space. This could look like clothes that don’t fit right, items that no longer reflect your personal style, or pieces that just don’t make you feel good about yourself. Stagnant energy doesn’t just apply to your physical environment; it can affect your mindset, causing feelings of frustration, confusion, and even self-doubt. Your wardrobe is meant to empower you, not weigh you down.
How does holding on clothes that no longer serve you affect your mental space? Here’s how:
Emotional Clutter: Clothes that carry emotional baggage - whether they remind you of past versions of yourself or evoke feelings of guilt or shame, they can drag you down. Every time you look at them, you're carrying around that energy.
Stagnation: When your wardrobe is full of clothes you don’t wear or love, it makes it harder to figure out what you actually need. Your choices become cluttered, which makes decision-making in the mornings (and beyond) feel overwhelming. It makes it very difficult to see the pieces that you love.
Missed Opportunities for Growth: As we evolve, our sense of style and our personal needs change. When we’re bogged down by clothes that don’t align with our current identity, it’s harder to embrace new opportunities and styles that truly reflect the person we are now, and who we’re becoming.
Why Letting Go Is an Act of Self-Care
Letting go of clothing that no longer serves you isn’t just a cleaning task; it’s a form of self-care. By curating your wardrobe to reflect who you are today, you give yourself the freedom to embrace more confidence, clarity, and intentionality in how you show up in the world.
It Makes Space for the New: When you clear out the items that don’t serve you, you make space for pieces that inspire you. You’ll feel lighter, both physically and mentally, and more open to discovering new items that reflect your current style and personality.
A More Intentional Wardrobe: Letting go of clothes is the first step toward creating a curated, purposeful wardrobe that aligns with your values, lifestyle, and aspirations. When your clothes reflect your true self, choosing what to wear each day becomes an empowering experience, not a stressful one.
Empowering Yourself Through Clarity: Having a wardrobe full of pieces that fit, flatter, and make you feel confident is a form of self-empowerment. Each time you look in your closet, you’ll see clothes that support and celebrate who you are, not items that hold you back.
Reclaiming Your Confidence: We all know how easy it is to feel down when nothing in your closet feels good. By letting go of ill-fitting or outdated items, you’re stepping into a version of yourself that feels more comfortable, self-assured, and excited about dressing up.
As you release the items that no longer serve you, you’re not just clearing space in your closet, you’re creating space for new opportunities, new possibilities, and a new version of yourself. A closet filled with clothes that make you feel good will give you the freedom to step into your day with confidence, clarity, and energy.
So, let go of the stagnant energy that comes from keeping things out of habit or fear, and instead, create a wardrobe that empowers you to move forward in life with intention, style, and confidence.
If you're unsure about which items to keep and which to let go of, I offer both in-person and virtual wardrobe edits to guide you through the process. Together, we’ll explore your unique style and lifestyle, helping you make thoughtful decisions on what to keep and what no longer serves you. To learn more about my wardrobe edit services, visit my services page or book a complimentary 30-minute discovery call to discuss pricing and available options.
XO
Hannah
How to Find Your Fashion ‘Power Piece’ That Makes You Feel Unstoppable
How to Find Your Fashion ‘Power Piece’ That Makes You Feel Unstoppable
In this blog post you will learn about a fashion power piece and learn tips and tricks to uncovering your ultimate power piece that will make you feel amazing.
Past or present, we have all had that one item in our wardrobe that when we put it on, we instantly feel more powerful, confident, and ready to take on our day. It’s the outfit or accessory that transforms not just your look, but your entire mindset. This is what I refer to as your fashion “power piece.” It might be a jacket, a pair of shoes, a dress, or even a simple accessory, but when you wear it, something changes. You feel unstoppable.
In this post, I’ll guide you through the process of identifying your fashion power piece, the significance of this piece in your wardrobe, and how to use it to boost your confidence.
What is a Fashion Power Piece?
A fashion power piece is more than just an item of clothing. It’s something that makes you feel like your best self - empowered, confident, and aligned. This item has the ability to transform your mood and your mindset in an instant. Whether it’s because of how it fits, how it makes you feel, or the way it aligns with your personal style, a power piece is a reflection of your inner strength.
It’s the piece that “clicks” when you wear it. Maybe it makes you stand taller, smile, or move more confidently. If you're still searching for your power piece, continue reading to discover how to identify the perfect item for you.
How to Find Your Power Piece
1. Identify What Makes You Feel Confident
The first step in discovering your fashion power piece is to think about what makes you feel most confident. Confidence comes from within, but clothing can help amplify that feeling. Start by asking yourself a few key questions:
When do I feel my best in clothes? Is it when you're wearing something fitted, flowy, or bold? Think back to times when you’ve felt absolutely amazing in your clothes and try to pinpoint what it was about that outfit that made you feel so confident.
What colors, fabrics, or cuts make me feel powerful? Are you drawn to bold reds, blacks and grey, or jewel tones? Do you love how structured pieces like blazers or high-waisted trousers make you feel? Notice the patterns, textures, and cuts that align with your energy.
When do I get compliments? While external validation isn’t the key to confidence, receiving compliments can help you see which pieces others gravitate toward. The items that catch people’s attention may also be the ones that make you feel more visible and assertive.
2. Think About Your Personal Style
Understanding your personal style can help guide you toward your power piece. Every person has a unique style. When your clothing resonates with your personal style, you automatically feel more in sync with your authentic self. Understanding your personal style can narrow down the kinds of clothing that will make you feel most powerful.
Discovering your personal style can feel like a daunting task. I suggest exploring style archetypes to see which one(s) resonate with you. If you're a visual learner, feel free to check out my Pinterest board where I've curated all the archetypes for you to browse.
Classic: For some, a classic trench coat, tailored blazer, or a straight leg jean can become their power piece because it reflects a sense of timelessness.
Eclectic: For others, it could be a leather jacket, interesting boots, or a bold statement necklace - something that exudes individuality and confidence.
Bohemian: A flowy dress or a beautifully embellished blouse might serve as your power piece, making you feel grounded and connected to your creative side.
High Fashion: For some, an oversized pair of sunglasses, a fur jacket or platform heel might serve as their power piece.
Street: A fun sneaker, a moto jacket or a graphic tee might be the perfect piece to make you feel like your most aligned self.
Minimal: An oversized sweater, a wool coat or even a structured leather bag because it reflects a sense of poise.
3. Experiment with New Looks
If you're not sure which item in your wardrobe is your power piece, experiment with different outfits. Try pairing various items and see how you feel in them. You can even use a "power dressing" technique, which is to wear something that’s typically outside your comfort zone and see how it changes your mindset. Before stepping outside in your new look, walk around your house and spend some time in this look to see how you feel.
Sometimes, stepping into an outfit that feels bold or different can unlock a new level of confidence. Don’t be afraid to take risks with your wardrobe. You may find that a daring statement piece (like a cobalt blue sweater or a graphic tee) instantly makes you feel like you can take on the day.
Ultimately, your fashion power piece should make you feel unstoppable in a way that only you can understand. Trust your intuition. When you slip on an outfit or accessory and think, "This is it," that’s the moment you’ve found your power piece. There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to your power piece—it’s something deeply personal. It could be a piece you wear for important meetings, a signature look, or something you wear on days when you need a little extra boost. Pay attention to what makes you feel ready to take on any challenge. Whenever you wear your power piece, remind yourself that you are capable, worthy, and unstoppable. This can be a small but impactful ritual that boosts your self-esteem. This week, I challenge you to identify your power piece.
xo
Hannah
Personal Styling 101- What it is and Who it is For?
Personal Styling 101 - What it is and Who it is For?
When you hear the term "personal stylist," you might imagine a glamorous celebrity being outfitted for a red-carpet event, or a high-powered executive getting dressed for a big presentation. But personal styling isn't just for the rich and famous, it's for every woman, no matter her lifestyle, budget, or style. Whether you're a busy mom, a professional woman, a student, or someone simply looking to feel more confident in your daily wardrobe, personal styling can profoundly impact your life, boosting your style and overall mental well-being.
What I Do as a Personal Stylist
A personal stylist’s job is not just about picking out trendy outfits; it’s about understanding your unique preferences, lifestyle, and goals, and helping you create a wardrobe that reflects the best version of yourself. Here’s a closer look at what I do.
Wardrobe Edits: I love starting a client’s journey by assessing their wardrobe and completing a wardrobe edit. This involves going through your closet and assessing what you have. Together, we’ll identify pieces that still work for you and those that no longer serve your needs - whether they are outdated, do not align with your style, or simply do not fit anymore. The goal is to streamline your closet so that it’s filled with clothing that not only fits well but makes you feel amazing. By clearing out the clutter, you create space for new pieces that will make getting dressed each day a more enjoyable, effortless experience.
Personal Shopping Appointments: Shopping can often feel overwhelming. Whether it's not knowing where to look, being unsure of what suits your style, or feeling like there’s just too much out there, it can be hard to navigate the fashion world on your own. That's where I come in. During a personal shopping session, I’ll help you select pieces that align with your personal style and budget, but are also versatile and functional for your lifestyle. I take the stress out of shopping, making it a fun and efficient experience tailored to your tastes and needs.
Personal Styling and Outfit Combinations: Putting together outfits can sometimes feel like a puzzle, especially when you're in a rush or don't feel inspired. I work with you to create outfits from the pieces in your wardrobe, showing you how to mix and match items you may already own in fresh, exciting ways. Whether it’s dressing for a certain occasion or putting together a week’s worth of work outfits, I provide the guidance and inspiration you need to look your best every day.
Personal Styling is for Everyone
Personal styling isn't about fitting into a mold or following the latest trends. It’s about finding a style that suits your lifestyle, body, and personality. Whether you're looking for a complete wardrobe overhaul or just some fresh ideas on how to style your current wardrobe, personal styling is an investment in you.
You don’t need to be a celebrity to deserve to look and feel your best. As an everyday woman, your life is deserving of a thoughtful, intentional wardrobe that aligns with your unique needs. Through wardrobe edits, personal shopping, and styling tips, you’ll learn how to dress with purpose and confidence, making the most out of every piece in your closet.
Remember, your wardrobe is an extension of who you are, and when it aligns with your true self, it can become a powerful tool for enhancing your life and boosting your mental well-being. Embrace personal styling not just as a luxury, but as a tool for personal growth, confidence, and joy in everyday moments.
Are you interested in finding the perfect service? I offer free discovery calls to determine which service best suits your budget, needs, and lifestyle.
xo
Hannah
Why Personal Style Matters: Exploring Its Emotional Impact and Mindful Shopping Habits
Why Personal Style Matters
Personal style has become a hot topic recently, with numerous influencers sharing insights on how to dress in a way that reflects your unique identity. But what makes personal style so significant? From a holistic perspective, I've observed that personal styling has profound emotional effects and influences individual shopping habits.
In this blog post, I explore the emotional impact of personal style and emphasize the importance of mindful shopping. Join me in celebrating your individuality in an authentic and sustainable way, while enhancing your wardrobe choices and overall well-being.
The Emotional Impact of Discovering Your Personal Style
I believe that fashion should be fun, however discovering your personal style is more than a fun fashion journey - it's an empowering process that deeply impacts your emotional well-being. When you uncover a style that resonates with who you truly are, it fosters a profound sense of self-love and acceptance. Wearing what makes you feel comfortable, confident, and authentic allows you to step into your power and embrace your unique identity. This alignment with your inner self boosts your confidence, helping you present your best self to the world. As you cultivate a wardrobe that reflects your values and personality, you reinforce your self-worth, which in turn enhances your productivity and motivation. When you feel good in your own skin, you approach life with greater enthusiasm and energy, setting the stage for success in both personal and professional endeavors.
How Discovering Personal Style Creates Mindful Shopping Habits
Personal style plays a pivotal role in cultivating more mindful shopping habits by encouraging individuals to make intentional, thoughtful choices rather than giving in to impulse buys. When you have a clear sense of what works for you - what fits your body, aligns with your values, and enhances your lifestyle - it becomes easier to resist trends or random purchases that don’t serve your overall vision. With a defined personal style, you’re able to focus on quality over quantity, investing in pieces that truly elevate your wardrobe and can be worn in multiple ways. This leads to better wardrobe utilization, as every item serves a purpose and complements others. As a result, shopping becomes less stressful, more efficient, and more satisfying. This allows you to spend less time searching for the “perfect” piece and more time enjoying the clothes you already love. In the end, a mindful approach to shopping reduces clutter, minimizes waste, and promotes a more sustainable and fulfilling wardrobe.
Ultimately, personal style isn't just about clothing, it's a reflection of who we are and how we want to show up in the world. By embracing mindful shopping and curating a wardrobe that aligns with our values, we can foster a deeper connection to ourselves and cultivate confidence in the process. Style, when thoughtfully expressed, has the power to transform not just how others perceive us, but how we perceive ourselves.