💫 Issue #3 - Manifesting Change from the Inside Out

This Week in My Wardrobe: Pre-Loved Treasures, Spanish Weddings & BBC Adventures

This week, while moving between a BBC workshop, a wedding in Spain and winding down at a spa in Murcia with my family, I kept coming back to the idea of real transformation. Not the “drop ten pounds in two weeks” kind that preys on insecurities but the type that starts with knowing and accepting yourself. Because if there’s anything I’ve learned through years of styling clients, it’s that lasting change comes from self-love, not self-loathing.

It’s fascinating when you reflect on how women’s bodies are marketed as trends. In the ‘80s, it was all about the aerobics body, lean and fit; then the ‘90s hit, and “heroin chic” took over, all angular and curve-less. By the 2000s, curves came back, but only if they were toned, with the “fit-girl” aesthetic ruling gym culture. Then we slid into the era of the big butt, the tiny waist, thank you, Kardashian phenomenon. And now, who knows? Maybe we’re on to “natural” or even “minimalist” bodies.

The point? Women’s bodies have been treated like fashion trends, disposable, changeable, moldable to whatever the world decides is “in” at the moment.

Let’s take a look at the Victoria’s Secret Show as a perfect example of how narrow this vision still is. After years of declining revenue, VS brought back its “iconic” show, thinking that tossing in a few older models (Tyra, Carla, Kate) and two curvier women would cover up their outdated views on female beauty. But what’s really changed? The whole spectacle still pushes the same hyper-sexualized, mannequin-like standard of beauty that alienates so many women. It’s like they’re sticking a bandage over a fundamentally flawed concept. You can’t throw a few token models into an outdated format and call it “inclusive.” And let’s be honest, the only reason this show was even created was to fulfill a male-driven fantasy, not to actually celebrate women.

Victoria’s Secret is stuck in a candy-coloured vision of femininity that feels as artificial as their sets. It’s not enough to plaster over it with a few diverse models; the brand needs a whole new perspective.

But, back to us, the women with real lives, real bodies, and very real schedules. Rather than waiting for brands to figure out how to represent us, we can define our own standards. You don’t need to twist yourself into whatever body type is trending. Instead, you can start by building a wardrobe that fits and celebrates who you are today, not who you’ll be “once you lose weight” or “when you finally fit the trend.” Styling isn’t about changing to meet an arbitrary standard; but showing up as your best self, authentically and unapologetically.

In the end, true transformation isn’t about mirroring some fleeting ideal. It’s about stepping into your wardrobe and reinforcing the belief that you care for yourself. Over time, this self-respect becomes visible in your body, your health, and your life. I’ve seen clients radiate new energy and even achieve personal health goals simply because they’ve stopped trying to force their bodies to fit some narrow standard and started styling themselves with love and acceptance.

On Wednesday after facilitating a workshop on defining personal style, I was reminded of this firsthand.

Now, imagine me, fresh-faced and caffeinated, walking into the BBC Club to host a workshop for women on my Wardrobe Architect Methodology. I’m armed with slides, a few cheeky anecdotes, and the hope that I can make wardrobe planning sound as fabulous as it feels.

First up? Lifestyle Profiling. Here’s where I break down the essential question: What does your wardrobe actually need? Because, let’s face it, your wardrobe should reflect your life, not just trends or that one outfit you wore in 2018 that was perfect but hasn’t seen the light of day since.

Next, we tackled Outfit Formulas. Now, this isn’t math class, so stay with me: I walked them through creating a “ practical core” formula, the comfortable, go-to outfits you can grab with your eyes closed, and an “aspirational edge” to add-on your personality and make your looks feel uniquely yours.

There were laughs, a few skeptical looks, and at least one moment when I questioned why on earth I thought this was a good idea. But by the end, I could tell they felt ready to conquer their wardrobes, and the pep talk worked: we walked out determined to make style simple.

At my cousin’s wedding in Spain, I was wrapped in a beautiful vintage dress that felt like a love letter to old-world charm with a hint of Spanish flair. It was one of those rare finds, sourced from a few of my favourite pre-loved boutiques in London, each piece holding its own unique story. I pieced together elements that felt timeless and authentic, blending vintage elegance with just enough drama to feel unforgettable.

As I twirled through the night, I felt the joy that only comes from wearing something thoughtfully curated, knowing this dress had its own life before mine, its fabric woven with memories, like a little history stitched into every seam. There’s something magical about wearing pieces with a story already sewn in. It’s a reminder that style doesn’t always come from the latest trends; sometimes, it’s about finding pieces that already hold their own, waiting for you to add your chapter.

I stumbled upon the perfect hat lying around during the photocall, talk about serendipity! It was made for my look, don’t you think? 💃✨ I’m in my kitten heel era, and I wasn’t about to leave my outfit formula behind just because it was a wedding. Enter: these stunning burgundy velvet ankle boots from Charlotte Olympia. Kitten heels instead of stilettos, boots instead of sandals… and I still felt so me, without giving up an ounce of elegance or comfort. Because style, should never feel like a compromise.

So, here’s my challenge: instead of waiting for the next trend to come along, ask yourself how you can style yourself today in a way that celebrates who you already are. Make that decision, and suddenly, change won’t feel so out of reach, it’ll feel like a natural, effortless part of your journey.

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💌 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! ;)

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♻️ Want to start your preloved journey?

You know the thrill of a perfectly brewed espresso or finding a seat on the Tube during rush hour? That’s the same high I get when I uncover a pre-loved gem hiding in a consignment shop, just waiting for its next love affair. And since this week has been all about tapping into that treasure-hunting magic, I’ve rounded up some insider secrets for finding those one-of-a-kind pieces.

We all love having that unique piece that when everyone asks us where we bought it, we drop a simple and ambiguous; "it's vintage". That Prada bag from the 90s that you love, or that jacket that matches any outfit...

Here are my go-tos in London:

· Consigned Sealed Delivered (CSD) - Marylebone Lane: A personal favourite for designer pieces at a steal. I’ve uncovered some amazing gems.

• Annie’s Ibiza - Carnaby: Ideal for party dresses that make a statement. Pricey? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.

• Liberty’s Vintage Room: This iconic store is famous for its seasonal vintage collection on the top floor, which includes designer accessories, jewellery, and clothing.

· Mary’s Living & Giving Shop for Save the Children - Primrose Hill: The vibe here is warm and welcoming. Very Inspirational place to shop and connect with your creativity.

• Vestiaire Collective Pop-Ups: Known for its online platform, Vestiaire also hosts pop-up events in London. Check their site for upcoming events, as they’re great places to score in-demand pieces with the option to inspect in person at Selfridge’s.

• One of a Kind Archive: Tucked away in Notting Hill, this exclusive store is known for vintage luxury pieces from brands like Chanel and Hermès.

• Pandora Dress Agency: Located in Kensington, this store offers high-quality pre-owned luxury clothing and accessories, often featuring iconic pieces from past collections.

The London Pre-Loved Guide: How to Hunt for Treasure

Buying preloved is like dating in your 30s, plenty of options, but you need the strategy to find the one.

If you’re new to preloved shopping, here’s my three-way method to make it easy: go with a vision, start with one statement piece, and shop for timeless cuts that fit your natural body shape. You don’t need to adopt a trend; you need pieces that amplify you.

Carolina’s 3-Point Preloved Guide

1. Have a Vision – Know what you want to add.

2. Start with a Statement Piece – Build around items that make you smile.

3. Choose Timeless Cuts – Think of items that flatter your natural shape, not just the season’s trends.

With a little patience and these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to discovering some incredible luxury treasures. Good luck and happy hunting!

1. Master Online Marketplaces for Pre-Loved Luxury

Online platforms are treasure troves for luxury second-hand items, allowing you to expand your search beyond local shops. Look for these reliable options:

• Vestiaire Collective: Known for authenticated luxury items, they have a huge selection with options to negotiate prices.

• The RealReal: Though based in the US, they ship to the UK and have an extensive range of luxury items. They also offer a personal shopping assistant.

• HEWI London (Hardly Ever Worn It): A UK-based resale platform focused on pre-loved luxury. They have a large selection and authentication services.

• eBay: Though more general, eBay has excellent second-hand luxury sections. Look for sellers with high ratings and “authenticity guaranteed” badges.

• Depop and Vinted: Often more affordable and varied, Depop and Vinted can be great for luxury bargains if you’re patient and research items carefully.

1. Look for Sample Sales and Pop-Up Events

Luxury brand sample sales and second-hand pop-ups are especially popular in London. Follow brands, designers, and resale platforms on social media, or subscribe to sample sale newsletters like Arlettie (my fav), Chicmi or Secret Sales, which notify subscribers of upcoming events.

2. Build a Relationship with Store Staff

Visiting stores regularly and getting to know staff can be invaluable for finding great pieces, especially in smaller boutiques. Staff often have insights into when new stock arrives and may even hold special pieces for you if they know your taste.

3. Consider the Timing

Some of the best times to find unique luxury bargains are during seasonal clear-outs or around the holiday season. January sales, for example, often have post-holiday markdowns, while September tends to be a prime time for wardrobe clear-outs as people prepare for the new season.

4. Inspect Condition and Authenticity

• Check for Wear and Tear: Look for signs of damage and ask if any repairs have been done or can be arranged.

• Verify Authenticity: For high-value items, check for authenticity markers like logos, serial numbers, or brand-specific details. Some platforms, like Vestiaire Collective and The RealReal, guarantee item authenticity.

• Ask for Proof of Purchase: Where possible, try to obtain the original receipt, packaging, or authenticity certificate to validate the purchase.

5. Join Communities and Groups

Luxury resale communities, both online and offline, can give you a heads-up on great deals. Facebook groups dedicated to second-hand luxury sales or local communities focused on high-end fashion are also good resources.

6. Go to Flea Markets and Designer Vintage Fairs

London hosts many designer fairs and flea markets where luxury pieces can be found at bargain prices. The Frock Me! Vintage Fashion Fair in Chelsea and Portobello Road Market are great for scouting out unique, pre-loved finds.

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🌟 Inspiration of the Week: Self-reflection, Books & What’s Sparking My Creativity

• Read: Identities through Fashion

A must-read for anyone intrigued by the deeper layers of style. It’s not just about what we wear, but why we wear it, and how every choice expresses who we are. This book dives into the intricate relationship between fashion and post-industrial societies, peeling back the layers of self-construction and the ways we constantly reinvent ourselves through style.

I’m always on the hunt for ways to expand my knowledge and stay inspired, so I can bring my best to every client. Investing in my own growth not only fuels my creativity but also helps me style with a deeper, more professional edge.

• New Find: Sonia Bornstein Studio in Primrose Hill

Sonia Bornstein’s studio is my latest source of inspiration, timeless pieces crafted with love and a dash of French flair. A designer with decades of creativity and a Vogue France collection worth marveling over. It’s my new go-to for chic, one-of-a-kind unique luxury pieces. @lesglorieuses

• The Grounding Power of Family

Amidst the busy days, I took a well-deserved pause with family at the Balneario de Archena in Murcia, a retreat I’d recommend with my whole heart. Nestled between mountains in the sun-drenched landscape of southern Spain, this place is an oasis of peace. It was the perfect spot to disconnect from the real world (and my phone!) for three days. The experience reminded me how grounding it can be to simply step back.

Family, with all its beautiful chaos, has a way of pulling us back to our core. They bring out our values, help us reset, and give us perspective. In an industry where trends come and go at lightning speed, it’s these grounding moments that fuel my creativity and remind me what truly matters.

If you’re craving a peaceful reset, I can’t think of a better place, here, you’ll rediscover the beauty of slowing down, savoring each moment in nature, and finding the space to just be.

This week, challenge yourself to style you, for who you are right now. It’s not about fitting into trends or waiting until you reach a certain goal. Life’s too short, and your style is too precious, to wait for anyone’s approval but your own. You’re here to shine, exactly as you are. Style for Today!

Until next week, with Love and wardrobe inspiration, stay fab!

Carolina 🌹