One of our core values at The Fashion Cookbook is to empower women to build a deeper sense of self-confidence and self-worth through exploring the power of what goes on our bodies (as well as inside them). We look at clothing as the ingredients that make up our many outfit recipes and just as some food ingredients can make delicious meals when combined, so can clothing items when you pair them together. Today we’re thrilled to share a post inspired by a recent client session.
Not too long ago we had the pleasure of working with a woman named Deb Graham. Deb, like many women, had lost hold of her sense of self over the years after placing her roles as mother, wife, and friend above other parts of her identity. She also began to deny her beauty as she aged, as our culture often stresses that beauty is associated only with youthfulness. Finding herself lost and uninspired, she reached out to see if we could help bring some spark back into her wardrobe. What she didn’t realize was that a session would also bring a major spark back into her life.
During all our sessions, we work closely with clients to access what it is they wish to present to the world, what their innermost blocks are; together we work through how to process through these issues and move forward, helping out clients to grow with more confidence and grace. While working with Deb, it became clear that her inner artist was feeling suffocated and in need of unlocking. Many times when working with clients we find it’s helpful to create a style archetype so that they have some framework of how to dress or who they should channel while dressing. For Deb, as we helped her to discover her personal style, we also asked her to embrace her inner French woman. Why? Because not only do the French always look classic and effortlessly cool, but they exude a sense of confidence and sexiness that comes from within and doesn’t come from the clothing they wear (AKA our bigger goal, always!).
Have you noticed that the French tend to look just as beautiful in a t-shirt and jeans as they do in a nice dress? Their secret: Confidence is king, or more accurately, queen. The most common thing French women carry is confidence. While the collection in their closet is simple, each outfit looks like a million bucks because French women have a strong sense of self. Although it doesn’t develop overnight, confidence comes with some mental pep talk. Remember, yes you are beautiful!
In a follow-up meeting to our session, Deb and I met for coffee and Nutella crepes at local Portland-based Parisian cafe Petite Jacqueline and we discussed her transformation in-depth; we went over the ways in which her closet cleanout and wardrobe refresh has helped bring more joy to her every day. If, like Deb, you wish to embrace your inner French woman be sure to follow these simple style tips:
Stripes Are Always “In”
You can never go wrong with a striped shirt. There’s nothing more quintessential to the French wardrobe. Simply add a scarf, and toss a trench coat over it.
Pair mid-heels with skinny jeans.
While French women love their flats, they also like to add height to their look with mid-heels. This instantly creates a polished look when paired with a large, loose sweater and a casual pair of jeans.
Drape outerwear.
To create an instantly cool look, simply drape over your shoulders. Try it with blazers, trench coats, or even a cardigan!
Are you looking to gain a deeper sense of inner confidence and develop a personal style? We’re here to help!
Photography: Amanda Fogarty
No Comments