Issue #2 Wearing vs. Styling: What’s The Formula?

This Week in My Wardrobe: Self-Talk, Pigeons, and Kondo’s Revenge

You ever have one of those weeks where the universe sends you signs… and by signs, I mean, pigeons? This was one of those weeks.

Let me set the scene: fresh out of a breakup with my “boyfriend” (you know, the kind where your brain and heart do a little tug-of-war), I found myself spiraling. Why? Because after all these years of style, strategy, and life-planning, I still couldn’t wrap my head around how I can be so good at comforting others, but an absolute tyrant when it comes to myself. Enter: a genius-level idea, I started talking to myself in the third person. Stay with me.

When your best friend is going through a breakup, you’re all about the pep talks, the wine, and making her feel like Beyoncé on a bad day. But when it’s you? It’s a one-way ticket to Criticism Central. So, I switched things up. I became my own best friend. I started saying things like, “Carolina, you’re afraid. That’s normal. But you’ll do it anyway because you’re the best.” It wasn’t about shutting down those feelings, but seeing them, validating them, and then deciding to push through because I could. And suddenly, this whole breakup thing? Not so tragic. Every time life tries to knock me down, my inner BFF is there, reminding me that it’s OK to feel scared, but it’s even better to keep moving. (Try it. It’s wildly effective.)

But then… the universe decided to test this newfound peace with the ultimate plot twist. One morning, I’m heading to a meeting, feeling fabulous in my snakeskin boots, matching belt and bag, when a pigeon, in the most cinematic moment ever, pooed on my hair. Yes, on me. On my freshly styled hair. Now, old me would’ve spiraled. But third-person me? I laughed, rolled my eyes, and marched into the bar like it was a regular Tuesday. While ordering, the bartender, bless her, tried to help, thinking it was dust. But then… she realised. Poo. In her hand. We were both mortified, but hey, life goes on.

The whole situation was ridiculous, but it reinforced what I’d been learning: how we react to circumstances is the only thing that matters. Seriously, how you frame those little moments, whether it’s a breakup, or literal bird excrement, is everything.

And speaking of transformation, can we talk about the joy of organising your drawers the right way? Big shoutout to my best friend in Madrid for introducing me to the Marie Kondo folding method. You’d think after years of styling other people’s wardrobes, I’d have mastered this by now. Nope. My drawers have been a battlefield for years. But one rainy day, inspired by my new approach to life, I rolled up my sleeves and Kondo’d the hell out of my clothes. And let me tell you, when I finally shut that drawer smoothly for the first time in four years, I may or may not have teared up. It was that satisfying!

I’m starting to think I might have a thing for midi skirts... No wonder they’re a key part of my outfit formulas. Keep reading to see how I also transform my dresses into skirts.

On top of that, I’m gearing up for this BBC Club workshop on Wednesday, and the pressure is real. It’s one thing styling clients or hosting swaps, but this? This feels big. I want to inspire women to understand how intentional styling can transform their lives, because, newsflash, it does! But, of course, prepping involved the most tedious thing on the planet: risk assessments. Picture me, the eternal optimist, going through worst-case scenarios for hours. It was torture. The day I did that, I swear the pigeon attack was karma. But still, I’m pumped. We’ve put in so much love and work, and I know it’s going to be fabulous, even if it means dodging pigeons in the process.

IT’S HAPPENING!!!

---

Wearing vs. Styling: What’s The Formula?

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the difference between wearing clothes and styling them. It’s a topic that’s really front of mind for me as I prepare for the workshop.

Here’s the thing: we all wear clothes every day, but styling? That’s where the magic happens. My personal formula? Tailored trousers, cool boots or trainers, and oversized coats. I could wear this combination all week, but each day, I style it differently based on my mood or occasion. That’s where my Aspirational Edge Add-Ons come into play.

Once you’ve nailed your Practical Core Outfit Formulas, you can evolve endlessly within them. The key is in adding those small, personal touches that reflect who you are and how you want to feel.

These elements guide my wardrobe choices and make getting dressed easy and fun. My go-to vibes? Effortless, Timeless, and Edgy. When I’m styling, I ask myself:

• Effortless? ✔

• Timeless? Let’s grab my tailored trousers.

• Edgy? Time to throw on that red blazer.

• Sustainable? Always, with a nod to vintage or pre-loved finds.

For me, the Aspirational Edge isn’t fixed. It’s about defining your signature style, but also letting it flow with your mood. Some days I feel more polished, and other days I want to tap into my edgier Urban side. We’re hormonal creatures, after all, listen to your body and embrace how you feel that day. Your Aspirational Edge should flex with you, letting you express your many layers.

Let’s call this my look of the week! I went for a casual vibe to tap into my creative side while spending the morning in a fashion designer’s studio, building outfits. I repurposed a dress into a skirt and dressed it down with a hoodie and my pre-loved Jimmy Choos!

So, my question to you is: what’s your Outfit Formula? What combination of pieces feels authentic to you? And what add-ons give your outfit that aspirational edge? It’s a powerful exercise that helps you make intentional choices in your wardrobe and feel more connected to what you wear.

💭 Poll Time: What’s Your Wardrobe Formula?

I want to know! What’s the go-to outfit formula you always turn to, the one that reflects your style and feels true to who you are?

• The Timeless Classic: Tailored trousers + ankle boots + statement coat

• Casual Chic: High-waisted jeans + sneakers + cozy knit

• Polished Elegance: Midi dress + heels + blazer

• Effortless Cool: Men’s button-down + fitted jeans + kitten heels

• Other (Tell me!)

---

💌 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! ;)

You’ve already taken the first step by subscribing, thank you for that! If you haven’t yet, now’s your chance to get the eBook and start building a wardrobe that aligns with your style.

---

Inspiration of the Week: What’s Sparking My Creativity

You’d think October would be the time to settle into greys and darker tones, but I’ve been getting daily doses of inspiration from flowers and trees around me. They’re bursting with colour, even as autumn rolls in. There’s something magical about flowers blooming defiantly in the face of colder weather, almost as if they’re refusing to fade. And it got me thinking: How often do we let beauty slip past us because we’re too focused on what’s next?

This week, I’m taking time to appreciate the unexpected beauty in my surroundings, and in my wardrobe. Whether it’s pulling out a favourite piece I haven’t worn in a while or simply styling an outfit differently, it’s all about finding joy in the little things.

A spark of creativity found me in a photo I stumbled across on Pinterest: a girl in a long white tulle skirt, paired with a fedora hat and a simple top, no accessories, no extra flair. Just simple, minimalist wedding vibes. It was a reminder that sometimes, less really is more, and now I can’t stop dreaming up wedding-day outfits. Thank you, stranger, for bringing back my wedding cravings.

You know you’re deep into fashion when it starts showing up in the most unexpected places… like your lunch. I recently found a carrot shaped like a pair of trousers. Coincidence? I think not. Fashion literally follows me everywhere! (even in the form of a Carrot). And if people around me can’t see the genius in that vegetable couture moment, well, that’s on them. Sometimes, you just have to laugh and embrace the fact that style sneaks into every part of your life, even your produce drawer.

And speaking of inspiration, have you ever worked from a church? No, I’m not joking. I found this hidden gem in Bank, London, a church turned into a co-working café. Sign Me Up! It’s a place that feels like it’s been blessed with both divine lighting and perfect coffee. It’s definitely worth a visit, even if only to say you’ve worked from a holy place while checking your emails. God’s work, am I right?

St Mary Aldermary (Bank - London)

---

Upcoming Event: Clothes Swap Brunch

Also, I’m thrilled to be hosting a Clothes Swap Brunch in Holland Park on the 10th of November! If you’ve never been to one before, it’s such a fun and sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe. You bring pieces you no longer wear, swap them with friends or strangers, and leave with something new to you. Plus, brunch! What could be better?

If you’re in London, come join us for a laid-back morning of swapping, chatting, and hopefully finding some fashion treasures. No fast fashion, no spending, just a wardrobe refresh that feels good and does good. Get in touch if you are interested!

Much love,

Carolina 💋

P.S. Until next week, here’s to swapping styles, dodging pigeons, and being your own biggest fan.