💫 Issue #1 - Why Does Getting Dressed Feel So Complicated?
This Week in My Wardrobe: Swaps, Suede, and Spanish Tortilla
It’s been one of those whirlwind weeks that felt like it was happening to me rather than with me. But in the best possible way. I hosted a clothes swap last weekend, and for the first time in… forever, I left with more than I came with. And by “more,” I mean a suitcase weighing in at a very chic 10kg. That’s right. Ten whole kilos of fashion treasures that cost me exactly £0. I call that a win.
The art of the clothes swap is simple: you bring your pieces, your friends bring theirs, and everyone goes home feeling like they’ve just stepped into a brand-new wardrobe without spending a penny. It’s like high-end thrifting, but with wine or tea. Picture me, post-swap, waltzing into my house like I’d just raided Paris Fashion Week, all thanks to some pre-loved Club Monaco brown linen trousers, paired with a crisp, white-and-navy striped shirt I hadn’t thought about in months. I added a snakeskin belt and my favorite matching bag that I’ve had for the last five years (and still love!) to complete the look. And let’s not forget about the fabulous cropped jacket I picked up at the swap. In London, layering isn’t just a trend, it’s a survival skill. Voilà! Instant cool, zero cost.
If you’re considering hosting a clothes swap, I can’t recommend it enough! Not only is it a sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe, but it also brings friends together for a fun, fashion-filled day. Set a date, create a cozy atmosphere, and watch as your guests leave with stylish new pieces that breathe fresh life into their wardrobes.
By midweek, I had an appointment with a client for a wardrobe edit, and naturally, I turned to two of my new swap pieces. It was perfect, really. Casual enough for a day of sorting through closets, but stylish enough to make me feel like I had my life together (even if, as a single mum of two boys, one of whom is entering the teen years full-throttle, I most certainly do not). The look? Casual, but fresh
Speaking of free, sustainable finds, let’s talk shoes. You know those moments where you spot something across a crowded room (or pre-loved online sites) and you just know it was meant for you? Enter: my pre-loved Jimmy Choo trainers. Leopard print and zebra pony hair. I mean, it’s not even a question. They were practically calling my name. The best part? £100. That’s right, £100 for trainers that were easily worth three times that. And they look brand new. The thrill of the hunt, my friends, is alive and well. (keep reading for the re- discovery of the week and where to find these hidden treasures)
Oh, and then there’s my recent Charlotte Olympia burgundy suede ankle boots. I originally bought them for my sister because, you know, I’m thoughtful like that. Except… they didn’t fit her. And if the universe gives you a pair of shoes that retail for £600 and they don’t fit your sister, you don’t just return them. No, you graciously accept the gift for yourself. So now they’re mine, for the low price of £79, and since burgundy is one of my wardrobe’s signature accent colours, it felt like destiny. I can already picture them with the black and red dress I’m saving for a wedding in Spain later this month.
But sometimes inspiration hits from the most unexpected places. Like, my neighbor’s front garden. It’s October, October, and yet her Japanese-inspired garden is still bursting with color, almost like it’s refusing to acknowledge the slow creep of winter. It’s been my daily reminder to find beauty in the mundane, in the things you wouldn’t normally notice. There’s something magical about flowers blooming defiantly against the odds
Then, in classic “me” fashion, I wrapped up the week with a glass of Verdejo at Bar Kroketa in Soho. If you’ve never been, stop what you’re doing and add it to your list. After what felt like the most mind-numbing morning of risk assessments (I’ve got a workshop coming up and apparently, people care about safety? Who knew?), I escaped to this cozy little Spanish spot. Flamenco-pop playing in the background, Andalusian accents filling the air, and a plate of tortilla with chorizo that was, quite frankly, the best bite I’ve had in weeks. The walls were adorned with photos of locals, faces and moments frozen in time, watching over my impromptu mid-day retreat. It was the perfect antidote to a boring morning. A little taste of Spain, right here in London
So, what have I learned this week? That sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. It’s personal. It’s about reworking, restyling, and breathing new life into the old. And also, London is a treasure trove of second-hand magic, waiting for someone with the right eye, and the right wardrobe, to find it. Sure, I’m a single mum raising two boys who are entering their “everything is embarrassing” phase, but if there’s one thing I’m teaching them, it’s that style doesn’t have to come with a price tag. Well, and hopefully a couple of other life lessons too! ;)
Why does getting dressed feel so complicated and what can we do about it?
It hit me, mid-latte sip, as I sat across from one of my clients during a wardrobe consultation. She was telling me, for what felt like the hundredth time, “I have so many clothes, but I have nothing to wear.”
Honestly, if I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard this, I’d probably have bought out Zara by now. Whether you’re into sneakers and streetwear, power suits, or flowy boho vibes, the frustration is universal. It’s not that we lack clothes, it’s that our wardrobe and life aren’t syncing.
So, I decided to write this newsletter because, in all my years of personal styling, I’ve realised that no matter how different our styles are, we all have the same closet struggles.
🎯 The Emotional Baggage We Carry (in Our Closets)
Let’s be real: getting dressed is emotional. Think about it, one bad outfit can throw your entire day off. Suddenly, you’re questioning everything: Am I underdressed for this meeting? Does this dress even fit anymore? We’ve all been there.
Our wardrobe isn’t just fabric and labels; it reflects our lives, moods, and sometimes our insecurities. On bad days, we reach for baggy sweatpants. On good days, we go bold with that bright red blazer. What we wear always has meaning.
But here’s the twist: getting dressed doesn’t have to be stressful. It can be as easy as ordering your morning latte, once you have the right system.
🧠 Wardrobe Architect Method: A Proven Style System (Perfected through styling Over 100 Women)
Here’s where my Wardrobe Method comes in. Imagine standing in front of your closet and knowing exactly what to wear without the drama. I created this system to make getting dressed intuitive, fun, and effortless.
1. Lifestyle Profiling: Dressing for Your Real Life
Imagine your wardrobe as a reflection of how you spend your time. If 60% of your week is work, 30% socialising, and 10% working out, your wardrobe should match that. Why? Because if your life is 60% work but your closet is 90% party dresses, you’ll always feel like you have “nothing to wear.”
Take a minute to think about how your week is structured. Now compare that to what’s hanging in your closet. Are the two aligned?
2. Outfit Formulas: The Secret to Effortless Style
Once your wardrobe matches your lifestyle, let’s talk style. An Outfit Formula is a reliable combination of pieces that flatters your body and matches your style, simplifying your wardrobe decisions.
Practical Core Formula: These are your everyday, go-to outfits that are grounded in comfort and functionality. Think of them as the backbone of your wardrobe, such as a tailored blazer with relaxed trousers or a classic trench with loafers. These formulas represent your personal uniform that aligns with your lifestyle, whether it's polished, casual, or relaxed.
Aspirational Edge Add-Ons: This is where the personality comes in. Once you’ve established your core formula, you can elevate it by adding pieces that bring out your unique flair. For example, layer that tailored blazer with a vibrant silk scarf for a "bold" statement, or swap your loafers for studded ankle boots to introduce an "edgy" vibe. This layer of your formula reflects your personality and aspirations, but it remains rooted in your day-to-day reality.
For example:
If your go-to formula is a men’s button-down, fitted jeans, and kitten heels, you’ve already balanced your look in a way that works. That button-down adds structure (your practical core), while the kitten heels offer an aspirational edge, such as “elegant.”
Another example might be an oversized blazer, ankle boots, and slim trousers, perfect for creating a polished look with an “edgy” flair.
How to Use This Method:
Start with a Core Formula: Identify one or two reliable outfit formulas that serve as your practical base. These could include combinations like a white shirt, straight-leg jeans, and sneakers for a casual look, or a midi skirt, fitted sweater, and ankle boots for something more polished.
Add the Aspirational Edge: Once the core is established, you can inject style and personality through statement pieces like accessories, prints, or colours that align with your "aspirational" look, be it playful, elegant, parisian, or daring. For instance, add an animal print belt or a bold blazer to the core pieces.
It’s about finding that sweet spot between what feels natural and what feels inspired, with every outfit grounded in both comfort and style. The goal isn’t to overthink every outfit. It’s to create a wardrobe that works for your real life, not some fantasy.
Once you have your formulas, you can get creative by mixing in your practical and aspirational, like adding texture with a leather jacket or playing with colours for a bold twist.
The reason many of us struggle with getting dressed is because we’re imitating rather than understanding ourselves. Once you embrace your unique blend of style personalities, getting dressed becomes second nature, and you’ll find yourself more connected to your wardrobe, and to yourself. The real magic happens when we create a wardrobe that feels like us, not a copy of someone else.
💌 Loving Life, Styled & Wardrobed?
If you’re enjoying my style musings, why not take it up a notch? I’d be honoured if you would consider become a subscriber and receive a FREE digital copy of my ebook “Wardrobe Edit: The 3-Step Guide to a Closet That Works”.
Trust me, your closet will thank you, and so will I! ;)
👗 Fall’s Best High-Street Finds Worth Your Investment
I’m all for embracing the runway, but I also believe in mixing in affordable, wearable timeless pieces, meant to last for years. I’ve picked three pieces from my seasonal high-street edit on Instagram that are not only on-trend but also fabulous quality investments for your fall wardrobe. I believe in creating a wardrobe that you can build on year after year. I always encourage pieces that you’ll wear again and again, because great style is about longevity, not just the moment.
Tie Belt Coat from H&M (£55) – This coat is chic, functional, and perfect for layering, making it a seasonal must-have.
Leopard Ballerina Flats from & Other Stories (£125) – These flats are ideal for adding a playful, trendy edge to any outfit without sacrificing comfort. Leopard print is always on trend, so you will give them a good use!
Organza Midi Skirt from Marks & Spencer (£55) – A lightweight, feminine piece that’s perfect for both casual days and dressier evenings. I stumbled upon it while shopping for my son's uniforms, and the quality and coolness of the piece surprised me, and it instantly made my high-street edit. Sometimes, great finds are where you least expect them!
🌟 Inspiration of the Week: Screenshots, Podcasts & What’s Sparking My Creativity
Podcast: The Business of Fashion explores how trends emerge and why fashion is constantly evolving. A must-listen for understanding the “why” behind what we wear.
I had an exciting Re-discovery! After some lovely pre-loved finds, I was introduced (digitally) to the managing director of Reluxe Fashion, and let me tell you, I am now obsessed. They have a Boutique in Notting Hill, and it's officially at the top of my must-visit list in London. Sometimes, the best finds aren’t just clothes, they’re new places to explore!
Harris Reed liked my comment wishing him ´Happy anniversary FOR both of you´(yes, with FOR). Honestly grammar might not be my strong suit, that’s my signature language shining through, but who needs perfect grammar when you’ve got vibes? Energy speaks louder than words (this might not be the best thing to write for my very first newsletter on a platform like Substack)…. Mybe this is the start of something bigger… (I’d love to work with him one day) Stylist goals, anyone? Guess we’ll see. For now, I’m just over here with a big smile, keeping the dream alive and owning my typos! Thank you @harris_reed for sparking my creativity.
After almost 12 years in London, my phone's still in Spanish... Is this weird? My friends find it so odd!
So, here’s to a week of swaps, suede, and Spain. A week of finding beauty in the unexpected. And most importantly, a week of remembering that our wardrobes, much like our lives, are meant to be enjoyed, not stressed over.
📚 Your Gift: A Free Wardrobe Edit E-Book!
To welcome you on this new style journey, I’m offering you a free gift! Download my 3-Step Wardrobe Edit eBook and start decluttering your closet. It’s your first step to simplifying your style and living with intention.
So there you have it, my first-ever newsletter and the start of what I hope will be a long, stylish journey together.
See you next week for more style inspiration, closet confessions, and tips to make dressing simpler. Until then, dress well, live better. 🌹
With love & style,
Carolina Marsoli