Do you ever spend a mundane amount of time staring at your wardrobe wondering, “What I should wear?” It’s easy to begin to fall into a mundane routine, especially when winter is in full swing (it’s easy to get stuck styling that same puffer coat or trying to layer without feeling frumpy).
Let’s face it: In the cold weather, we’ve all experienced a style stump. (In fact, it’s a shared experience among the fashion set.) So, what does one do to get out of it? You turn to the experts, of course. Ahead, we spoke with three celebrity stylists to have them share their expertise. From the staple pieces you should invest in to the spring trends that are worth your time, their tips will help you break your rut once and for all.
You have an incredible roster of clients, but is there one specific celebrity you’ve been working with that you feel is an excellent example of how to evolve your personal style in 2022?
Amelia Gray Hamlin has a very distinct style and she isn’t afraid to experiment. That’s the best mindset to be in.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to evolve their personal style this year?
If you want to do it, now is the time. Take it slow and evolve parts of your style gradually. Start by replacing sweatpants during a Zoom call for work with a comfortable pair of jeans, and take every time you leave the house as an opportunity to try something new.
For readers that may have made their resolution to shop less this year, what’s the one styling hack you swear by for making what you already own feel like new? Layering makes an already-worn piece look different when put over or under another piece of clothing with different accessories. Layering also allows you to reuse pieces of clothing that may be short-sleeve or not fit for all spring weather by putting them over a simple long sleeve or turtleneck.
What investment pieces you’d suggest our readers buy to upgrade their wardrobe in 2022? Unconstructed black blazers are a great piece to add to your closet because they can be dressed up for work or formal setting or paired with jeans and dressed down to be worn as a casual daytime outfit.
Another piece I’d recommend they invest in is a pair of black knee-high boots. Whether they are flat, heeled, or platforms, they will pull together any springtime look.
Invest in leather, in general. Leather pants are a trend that is crossing over from 2021 into 2022. Like black blazers, black leather pants can be worn in multiple settings, which is why they should be a staple pair of pants in your wardrobe. If leather pants aren’t your thing, add an oversize black leather jacket to your wardrobe to wear for any occasion.
With spring just around the corner, which spring trends do you think are worth investing in? And why?
As WWW’s spring 2022 trend guide said, color is everywhere. After two years of neutral colors controlling the fashion scene, 2022 is the time to add a few bold colors back into your wardrobe.
Returning to full normalcy and entirely in-person activities hopefully is in the cards for 2022, and it is no surprise that suits are becoming a huge spring trend. Two-piece suit sets in different colors with a small top underneath (or even a bra) look like an ideal outfit for a spring day.
How long have you been a stylist? And how has your experience within the industry informed how you approach personal style?
I’ve been a stylist for a hot minute now, roughly six years. Fashion, of course, is ever-evolving and changing but how I approach style remains the same. It’s about authenticity and how you wear something, not what you are wearing. Style should be timeless. What makes it timeless is your originality.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to evolve their personal style this year?
First off, try and shop local and take up thrifting for most of your wardrobe. Not only is that approach more sustainable, but you will have many more one-of-a-kind pieces. A great place to start is by giving your accessories a refresh. Take up some of those trends through a new pair of kicks or statement bracelets.
For readers that may have made their resolution to shop less this year, what’s the one styling hack you swear by for making what you already own feel like new? Focus on how pieces fit when you’re looking to add something to your current wardrobe. Pick what part of your body you want to accentuate and ask yourself, “Does this piece show off my…” If it’s a yes, it’s a go!!
What investment pieces you’d suggest our readers buy to upgrade their wardrobe in 2022? I’ve always said you should have a perfectly fitting blazer in your closet. Whether this is a power shoulder blazer or classic single-breasted blazer, it’s a must-have.
Also, note that most people don’t fit items directly off the rack. Tailoring your pieces to make them feel like a real investment is a great idea. Sometimes the investment is that great tailor! The same goes for those perfect jeans. A must-have in your closet to create limitless looks.
With spring just around the corner, which spring trends do you think are worth investing in? And why? Bright saturated colors like saffron, orange, Kelly green. Use this trend in your shoes or maybe a statement jacket. You will feel as bold as the color you’re wearing.
I’m also excited about the early-2000s fashion that’s dominated the runway! There is something for everybody here. Why not bring back butterfly crop tops and low-waisted, slightly flared denim? All in a light baby blue, of course. It’s a good moment in fashion, I think.
How long have you been a stylist? And how has your experience within the industry informed how you approach personal style?
I’ve been styling since I was around 17. I’m 29 now, so about 12 years. Honestly, I’m constantly on-set or at fittings, so I’m always in sweaters and tracksuits. If I’m at an event and have to make an effort, I still feel under-dressed because comfort is my go-to!
What advice would you give to anyone looking to evolve their personal style this year?
My advice to people when they ask what they can do to evolve their look is to let loose—let go of any insecurities you might have about wearing a particular color or fit. Be bold and confident, and you’ll look great in anything. Experiment in front of your mirror and get comfortable with stuff you wouldn’t usually wear.
For readers that may have made their resolution to shop less this year, what’s the one styling hack you swear by for making what you already own feel like new? Invest in a pair of scissors and cut up your garments to reuse, recycle, and give them a new lease of life! I am constantly turning jeans into jackets or sweaters into hats. When somebody tells you they love what you’re wearing and ask where you got it from, tell them you found it in your closet!
What investment pieces you’d suggest our readers buy to upgrade their wardrobe in 2022? A chic, comfortable one-piece (or catsuit if you’re feeling that extra bit confident) will be bang on trend this year, with most high-end designers showcasing the looks during fashion month.
I also recommend lots of colors! This year, girls (and guys) should consider investing in lots of bright-colored accessories. A bold statement bag or shoe will add excitement to even the most basic outfits.
With spring just around the corner, which spring trends do you think are worth investing in? And why? I’m excited about the continued obsession with sportswear this season. Brands are elevating sportswear each season, and it’s becoming a popular choice of attire, even for dinner! Gucci, Loewe, Bottega, and Stella McCartney are great examples of brands that add luxury to sportswear.
I’m also excited for longer hemlines in the form of maxi skirts and dresses. From high-end iterations at Saint Laurent to affordable iterations at Zara, this trend is everywhere and can be worn anywhere by anybody.
