Mirror Mirror On The Wall…

…Who’s the most fashionable one of all?

How can you tell if you don’t have a full length mirror?

I know that this must seem obvious – I mean who wouldn’t have a full length mirror in their home? But I can’t tell you how many client’s bedrooms and walk-in closets I’ve worked in, and I’m always surprised when a client doesn’t have a full length mirror in at least one of those areas. If you think a bathroom mirror or vanity mirror makes the cut, you’re somewhat correct. And that is the issue, it does make the cut; it cuts you right in half.

It’s impossible to get a clear picture of what you look like in your outfit, in full length, when you can’t see from the top of your head to the point of your Prada shoes, or whatever shoes you’re wearing.

If you don’t have a full length mirror, you won’t be able to decide if each piece compliments the other in a way that is attractive, and not clashing. Yes, you can look at the pieces on their hangers but until you see how they drape and hang on your body, until you see how the fabrics and colors play off each other, until you see how the shoes you choose work with your dress, skirt or pants (Yes, I’m speaking to the gentlemen too!), it’s hard to know if it’s really working. And more importantly, you won’t be able to see if the overall proportion is working synergistically with your Body-Type proportion.

There is a reason stores have full length mirrors. Yes, it is most likely so that they can sell their items. I mean, can you imagine how sales would plummet if shoppers couldn’t see themselves from head to toe?! Albeit, the lighting is usually horrific in stores, but at least you can see yourself fully so that you can make an informed decision on whether you’re going to buy it or not.

Your bedroom, dressing room, or walk-in closet should be no different. You should be able to make an informed decision on whether you like what you look like, or not.

If you can’t see how amazing you look, or not, how can you feel confident that what you are wearing is really showing off your best self? You really won’t know. And when you do finally see the full you, you might not like what you’re seeing and it’ll probably be too late to change. Talk about a confidence killer.

Don’t take the chance. The easiest way to uplift your confidence is to know that you nailed it when you put together your outfit. The only way to know you nailed is when it is confirmed by the smile you will see on your face when you’re staring at yourself in the mirror and seeing yourself exactly as you want everyone else to see you.

Do you and your confidence a favor and buy yourself a full length mirror. In my opinion, it is the one tool you can’t live without when it comes to getting dressed.

Ok, before I sign off, I just have to say one other thing because I have also experienced this time and time again in clients’ homes. And that is, “lousy lighting.” When it comes to getting dressed in your bedroom, dressing room, or walk-in closet, you must have adequate lighting.

The best kind of lighting to have, is lighting that closely resembles natural outdoor light as much as possible. Your prints, patterns, and colors may look just fine in that low-dimmed, warm lighting that makes you feel all cozy, but step out into the streets and you may have a different reaction – your colors may clash.

Yuk. It isn’t a pretty site when you thought your innovative mix and matching was right on, only to discover that when you stepped outside, or worse, into your office, your creativity was lacking harmony. Oops. Good luck then, trying to muster up your confidence. I have no doubt, if you’re a person who cares how you look, this little mismatch mistake will have a huge affect on your day.

Again, don’t take the chance. Do you and your confidence another favor and get good lighting installed in the areas where it matters most.

That’s it for this week.

Now, it’s your turn. I’d love to hear from you.  Your insights and inspiration are appreciated so please share your stories in the comments below.

Blog me.

Love,

~Michelle