If you’re anything like us, you’ll spend much of your time agonising about the next event and what on earth you’re going to wear.
In the face of these pressing style dilemmas, most of us will end up panic-buying a new outfit that we probably only half like and will be worn once, damaging not only our monthly budget but the planet too.
So, how can we avoid this?
We’ve sat down with Megan Watkins, Head Stylist at online fashion destination SilkFred and Colour Analyst and Personal Stylist Sian Clarke who have shared their top tips on what to wear for all those ‘I have nothing to wear’ moments, from first dates to job interviews – we’ve got you covered.
1. First date
Knowing what to wear on a first date can throw up a variety of unanswerable questions e.g. How can I dress sexy but not too sexy? How do I dress modestly without looking too modest? Will they think my heels are too high? What if they hate the colour red? These unknowables can leave us frantically scrolling online to find the intangible ‘perfect’ outfit until we finally spy something that only semi-works. So, what’s the solution for first date style?
Megan recommends: “It’s easier said than done, but the first rule of first date styling is forget about what your date might like! The best dates are when you feel comfortable and confident in yourself, and you’ll never achieve this if you’re thinking of what they want and not what you want.”
“Have a favourite going-out top? Style that with some of your fave jeans, comfy heels and some cute jewellery. Go for items that make you feel good and you know you look good in. Just because you’re used to what they look like, doesn’t mean your date will!”
Sian says: “A soft pink is the perfect colour to wear on a first date because it highlights your feminine energy. It’s a playful, flirty colour that also shows that you are listening as well as your empathic side.”
“If you feel pink is too ‘girly’ combine it with red. Red and pink is the ultimate Girl-boss combo – red will bring your energy into a room, pink will charm their pants off and together they will show off your feminine and passionate side.”
2. Job interview
From deep dives on LinkedIn to researching exactly what the company stands for to updating and curating your CV, job interviews take a lot of prep. This often leaves us scrambling days before the interview for a perfect outfit that says professional, capable, yet will make us stand out. But how can we emulate this vibe?
Megan suggests: “People often go for classic colours such as black, navy or dark grey when it comes to job interviews, and these are classics for a reason. However, if you want to stand out from the crowd I would suggest adding a statement accessory that you may have in your wardrobe for more ‘fun’ events, such as a brightly coloured bag, tie or shoe.”
“These small flairs can help make an impression and make your interview unique.”
Sian suggests: “I suggest combining red and blue together for an interview. Red releases the hormone adrenaline into our systems. This turns into energy and this new energy can be used to boost our confidence levels, show off our motivated and determined side and help us to get remembered.”
“Blue releases oxytocin, the hormone that keeps us calm. The calmer we feel, the better we communicate, the better we communicate the better relationships we build, therefore guaranteeing us to stay calm under pressure and land our perfect job with confidence.”
3. Meeting the parents
There’s nowhere where you want to make a good first impression more than when you’re meeting the parents and our style choices factor heavily into this. However, our experts are on hand to share exactly what you should be wearing to nail this event.
Megan reveals: “When meeting the parents, comfort and comfortability is key. Although this can be nerve-wracking, this is an event where there will be eyes on you. Take stock of what you have in your wardrobe and decide what you would like people to see you in. Go for something that you know fits well and you won’t be worried about undergarments popping out or tripping over long hems.”
“If you’re not a heel person, go for flats. If you’d never wear a skirt, go for some casual trousers. If you only wear black, don’t feel like you need to inject some colour into your outfit. You want to show off your personality and who you truly are. This is when you’ll feel most comfortable and confident.”
“I would also suggest not to go too formal. Suits and shirts scream ‘I’m at work’ and opting for a fancy dress and sky-high heels might make others feel underdressed.”
“Staples such as midi dresses, crew neck jumpers and simple jewellery will be your saviour here and you probably already have these items in your wardrobe!”
Sian recommends: “The best colour to wear when meeting your partner’s parents is green. This is because it’s the perfect colour to calm your nerves and keep you calm and balanced. It’s the colour of harmony as it helps to reduce our cortisol levels which induce stress, which could be very high!”
“Green can also reduce the appearance of flushing or blushing too so it can ease that if you struggle with uneven or hot skin when nervous. Yellow helps to banish fear and helps with focus and decision making so will be great when you are socialising with your in-laws. It is also the most optimistic and happy colour, so wear yellow with green for a wonderful calming and grounding confidence boost.”
4. Your birthday
Birthdays are meant to be fun, right? However, every year we find ourselves stressing out before the big day and wondering what on earth we’re going to wear?! We want to stand out, yet be stylish and look the best we’ve ever looked.
Megan recommends: “When it comes to your birthday outfit, remember that comfort is key. No matter how stylish your look is, make sure you’re comfortable in it. You want to enjoy your special day without any wardrobe malfunctions or discomfort.”
“You also want to go for an outfit that reflects your personality. Choose a look that makes you feel confident and reflects your personal style. Whether you’re into bold fashion choices or classic elegance, let your outfit be an extension of who you are.”
“I would also recommend planning ahead. Plan your outfit in advance to avoid any last-minute stress. Make sure everything fits well and is ready to wear.”
“Lastly, it is most important that you have fun. It’s your birthday, so have fun with your outfit. Don’t be afraid to finally wear that dress in your closet that you think is too ‘out-there’ to wear.”
Sian says: “The best colour to wear on your birthday is orange. Orange is fantastic for communicating, it is very sociable, dynamic and shows great warmth. Wear orange if you need to interact with lots of people.”
“If you want to give off a more luxe vibe I suggest wearing purple. Purple is the most expensive colour to make! It oozes luxury, purpose and playfulness and is great when combined with orange.”
