How to Completely Reinvent Your Wardrobe and Personal Style
"Fashion is like a time machine—sometimes the best way forward is a little trip back to your favorite style era!"
Introduction:
Welcome to The Nichole Banks Blog, where we explore everything that empowers women to embrace change, elevate their lives, and sometimes, bring a little nostalgia back into the mix. Today, we're diving into the exciting journey of reinventing your wardrobe and personal style—Gen X style! Whether you rocked a scrunchie back in the day or had a closet full of flannel, this guide is all about bringing those iconic looks back with a modern twist. I'm Nichole Banks, your host, guide, and fellow fashion adventurer, ready to share my own style evolution and some valuable tips to help you revamp your closet with confidence and a hint of throwback charm.
Tune into the Nichole Banks Podcast for free on your favorite podcast platform—available wherever you listen! Or simply click the link here!
Embracing Change: My Personal Story For years, black has been my go-to color—it's sleek, timeless, and makes me feel powerful. But when it came time to brand my company, I knew I needed a fresh palette. That's when navy blue and mauve (yes, mauve, the color you might remember from your favorite ‘80s tracksuit!) entered the scene. As someone who's curvier, I've often hesitated to wear bold colors for fear of drawing too much attention. Can you relate? It’s that same hesitation that kept me in a wardrobe rut, but then I realized something—if I could rock neon leggings and oversized sweaters back in the day, why not embrace a little color now?
Gen X Throwbacks: Trends Making a Comeback
The Power Suit Remember the power suits of the '80s? Shoulder pads, anyone? Well, they’re back! But this time, they're sleeker, more refined, and just as empowering. Whether you’re heading to the office or out for a night on the town, a tailored power suit in a bold color like deep emerald or classic navy can give you that confident edge. Pair it with a silk camisole and some statement earrings, and you’re ready to conquer anything.
Denim on Denim Double denim—aka the Canadian tuxedo—was a staple of the ‘90s, and guess what? It’s making waves again. The trick is to mix shades for a modern take. Think light-wash jeans with a darker denim jacket, or vice versa. And yes, this trend works for everyone, not just supermodels and pop stars!
The Return of the Maxi Dress The flowing, bohemian maxi dress that defined the '70s and had a resurgence in the '90s is back and better than ever. Perfect for those days when you want to look effortlessly chic, today’s maxi dresses come in an array of prints, from floral to geometric, and can be dressed up with heels or down with your favorite pair of sneakers.
Tips and Tricks for Reinventing Your Wardrobe:
Discover Your Style Icons: As much as we loved Cindy Crawford’s jeans and tank top look, today’s style icons can offer fresh inspiration. Look to celebrities, influencers, or even fictional characters whose style resonates with you. Seeing how others put outfits together can spark new ideas for your own wardrobe, whether it’s channeling the timeless elegance of Grace Kelly or the edgy vibes of Debbie Harry.
Invest in Versatile Basics: You don’t need to raid your old closet (though that could be fun!). Build your wardrobe around timeless pieces like a well-fitted blazer (with or without shoulder pads), tailored trousers, and a classic white shirt. These essentials serve as a foundation for any look, whether you're going casual or formal. Add in some throwback accessories, and you’ve got a style that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
Play with Textures: Mixing different textures was all the rage back in the day—think velvet with denim or satin with leather. Revive this trend by pairing a silky blouse with structured denim or a cozy knit with leather leggings for a chic contrast. It’s all about creating a dynamic look that feels both familiar and new.
Know Your Colors: Understanding your undertones can guide you in choosing colors that complement your skin tone. If you’re feeling adventurous, revisit the vibrant hues of the '80s—hot pinks, electric blues, and sunny yellows. If you’re more of a minimalist, cool tones like emerald green or navy blue can create a sophisticated, modern look with a nod to the past.
Accessorize Thoughtfully: Accessories were everything back in the day—remember those chunky belts and big earrings? Today, you can still make a statement with your accessories, but with a bit more finesse. Experiment with statement earrings, bold necklaces, or a stylish belt to add personality and flair to any outfit. And yes, scrunchies are back, so why not add a few to your collection?
Tailoring Is Key: A well-fitted garment can transform your look and boost your confidence. Whether you’re pulling out that old leather jacket or investing in new pieces, make sure they fit just right. A good tailor can turn an average outfit into something extraordinary, making you feel like you’re walking down the runway—just like in the ‘90s!
Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: The beauty of Gen X fashion was the willingness to take risks—whether it was wearing clashing prints or mixing grunge with glam. Don’t shy away from trying new styles or trends. Whether it's a bold print, a vibrant color, or a fashion-forward silhouette, stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to exciting discoveries in your personal style journey. Remember, fashion should be fun!
Fashion is not just about clothing; it's about self-expression, nostalgia, and empowerment. Whether you're refining your signature look or embarking on a style overhaul, remember that confidence is your best accessory. Embrace the opportunity to reinvent yourself through fashion, and above all, have fun with it! As you explore new fashion horizons, don’t forget to add a touch of the past—because sometimes, the best trends never really go out of style.
Thank you for joining me on this journey to reinvent your wardrobe and personal style, Gen X edition. I hope these tips inspire you to revisit those fashion memories, try something new, and most importantly, embrace the beautiful, unique individual you are. Stay tuned for more empowering content on The Nichole Banks Blog!
xxo
Nichole
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P.S. Want more on how to level up your mindset? Listen to The Nichole Banks Podcast and dive deeper into all things personal growth.
The Nichole Banks Podcast:
The Nichole Banks Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the ups and downs of life after divorce with a fresh perspective and a sprinkle of fun. Hosted by Nichole Banks, a divorce recovery coach and transformation expert, this podcast is all about empowering you to embrace new beginnings and find joy in the journey. Each episode blends practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a touch of humor to help you tackle life's challenges and rediscover your inner strength.
In recent episodes, Nichole has tackled a variety of crucial topics. Episode 83. How to Completely Reinvent Your Wardrobe and Personal Style, explores how to embrace life’s clothing options with optimism and grace. Episode 80. How to Heal From the Things No One Ever Apologized For, dives into setting healthy boundaries to safeguard your emotional well-being. If you’re grappling with loneliness, Episode 74. Focus on Your Results, Not Your Failures”, offers practical strategies to help you flourish on your own.
Tune in to The Nichole Banks Podcast for inspiration, actionable insights, and a supportive community ready to cheer you on. Each episode is designed to help you heal, grow, and embrace your best self.
