Joan Crawford – A Style Icon to Live By

From modest beginnings, Joan Crawford was obsessed with clothes. She was not a typical beauty by our standards today, but she had a more “awe-inspiring” beauty, even with unusually broad shoulders and hips. Knowing her body-shape, she used them to her advantage. Her shoulder pads became her signature style. Women, at that time, looked to her on the silver screen instead of Vogue. Her on-screen wardrobe often cost more than the screenplay. She had numerous walk-in wardrobes. If she liked a particular silhouette, it would not be uncommon for her to have it made in several additional colors. It was even rumored that she changed her outfits up to ten times a day.

In today’s world, true style pioneers are far and few in-between, at least without a stylist on payroll. Crawford had her own set of Style Commandments to live by.

“Find your own style and have the courage to stick to it.”
This is what I express to you, and my clients, every day: find your style, and you will find your confidence. Once you feel put together, the confidence rises up from within.

“Choose your clothes for your way of life.”
For my “Mom” clients this is SUPER important. If you’re picking up kids, taxiing them around, cleaning the house and preparing dinner, you need to consider the right combination of apparel for your hectic schedule. In contrast, my corporate executive clients require sleek suits with power scarves or ties. While both are equally important jobs, they each require very different silhouettes.

“Make your wardrobe as versatile as an actress. It should be able to play many roles.”
Separates are a great way to get as much versatility out of your closet. Check out these “Essentials for Every Women’s Closet” to get started.

“Find your happiest colours… the ones that make you feel good.”
These happy feel good colors are our “signature colors”… they make you smile.

“Care for your clothes, like the good friends they are.”
This is SUPER important… ensure the longevity of your investment by following the recommended care instructions on the tag. I personally have sweaters from when I worked at Armani Exchange on The Plaza in Kansas City… circa 1996?

You don’t have to be a movie star, or a model. You don’t need an incredibly sized closet (though we all secretly want that!), or have paparazzi following your every move. But, you CAN be a style icon, once you release the “awe-inspiring” YOU from the inside.